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Table of Contents: 
SEE HISTORIC PARMA.
PARMA TOWN AND AREA
OUTSIDE PARMA

As soon as you see Parma, you notice there are no high rises.
The skyline of Parma from across the river.

Why would you want to see Parma?

Well, the Historic Centre of Parma is under consideration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The cuisine of Parma already ranks as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

That alone should be enough to redirect your travel plans to this area of Italy’s Emalia-Romagna Region.

What if we toss in classical music and opera? Then we add impressive castles and P.D.O. Wines to the mix.

The Parma area has an impressive collection of castles.
Torrechiara in the vineyards.

This area would be a place that is hard to pass up.

Come, let’s see why this area between Milan and Florence has so many treasures waiting for you to discover.

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See Historic Parma

The main reason people come to this area, they think, is for the cheese and the ham. And you absolutely should try it.

But thousands of years of history are waiting for you as well.

You can see several Parma Ducal palaces in the city and the country.
Palazzo della Pilotta.

 

There are numerous sites to explore inside.
The Palazzo della Pilotta from the front

 

Napoleon's wife chooses this as her residence of choice.
Palazzo di Riserva also serves as a Ducal Palace.

 

On a nearby plaza you can see Parma's government buildings.
Palazzo del Governatore, Palace of the Governor.

 

It is now a part of the city hall complex. A perfect example of inflated government.
The palace of the Podestà – the “mayor” before Dukes.

 

There has to be a grand interior if the exterior is this large.
Palazzo del Comune – City Hall.

 

But it is impressive and is open for those willing to make the climb.
The Cathedral’s bell tower is not the tallest structure in Parma.

 

The details on the buildings are incredible.
The piazza of the Cathedral.

 

See Parma's many churches, each one different.
The Cathedral interior is so light for a cathedral.

 

Feel the detail in the lion's guarding the door.
Cathedral’s front door.

 

Directly across from the cathedral, the Bishop had an easy commute.
The Bishop’s Palace.

 

It is not open to the public.
The tallest bell tower in Parma is at Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista.

 

As the Dukes are the largest patrons of the arts, opera houses and museums are usually close by.
The Opera House is across the street from the Duchess’s palace, coincidence?

And this is just in the historic district. Touring this area can take all day. What else does the town of Parma hold in store?

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See Parma and the Surrounding Area.

Across the river, or just a short walk away are many more exciting sights. Don’t forget to include them. A few require a drive.

As you can see, Parma is over run with Dukes and palaces.
Just across the river is Palazzo del Giardino, another Ducal Palace.

 

See Parma from the nobility point of view.
Take a stroll through the Ducal Park.

 

Even fountains are more interesting than modern day ones.
Around every corner, there may be a treat.

 

Lose yourself and see what you find.
Not only do streets go beside buildings, but some also go other ways.

 

The colors are ever changing, especially early in the morning and at sunset.
Simple corners and piazzas become enchanting.

 

Just to see Parma's churches would take several days.
You can find captivating churches.

 

Not only can you see Parma, but there are options to hear it as well.
Birthplace of Arturo Toscanini Museum

After a few days in Parma, you may need a few hours out in the country. There is plenty to see and do there as well.

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See Parma Nearby

History, opera, wine, cheese, ham, architecture are just a few things waiting for you outside of the city.

The whole Emilia-Romagna region is a culinary delight.
You can learn about or just sample local cheeses, meats, and wine.

 

We know the local wines are as old as the castles. What better way to experience them.
Castles pop in in the middle of vineyards.

 

In the same compound as the local tomato museum. What a match.
What do you know about pasta? Visit the Pasta Museum.

 

Although some may look similar, they all have their own personalities.
Which castle is best? That’s a personal opinion.

 

Fontanellato now has a fixed bridge, but the moat has water.
What is a castle without a moat and draw bridge?

 

Each room has articles from his different operas including set designs and a few costumes.
The Verdi Museum will show you more about his operas.

 

A little opera in Verdi's garden?
Experience the man at his villa or birthplace.

The architecture and the scenic landscape, from flat plains to mountains, is enough to keep you busy for several days.

 

See Parma Summary

As you can see, Parma probably has much more to offer than you knew. Unquestionably, you come to taste the cuisine, but don’t stop there.

Tour the castles and palaces.

Explore the world of Opera and Italian music. It is a part of the total experience.

Take a stroll through a Ducal Palace garden, or wander trails on a former Duke’s hunting estate.

See Parma lit up at night. It's a whole different town.
Garibaldi Square at night.

Stop ignoring Italy’s middle sections.

Come, see Parma and experience it for yourself.

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