Brisighella
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Brisighella is situated within the Province of Ravenna and has a population of around 7,500 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 115 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Faenza, Dozza, Terra del Sole, Castrocaro Terme and Imola. |
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What People Ask About Brisighella
Is Brisighella worth visiting?
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Brisighella Overview
Brisighella, located in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a charming hilltop town nestled in the Apennine Mountains, known for its well-preserved medieval heritage and stunning natural surroundings. The town’s narrow streets, traditional stone buildings, and picturesque setting offer a tranquil retreat, making it an ideal destination for visitors interested in history and nature. With its elevated position, Brisighella provides breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Brisighella is famous for its Torre dell'Orologio, a medieval clock tower that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. The Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista is another notable landmark, a small church with historical and architectural significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Brisighella offers a range of hiking and cycling trails through the nearby hills, providing scenic views of the countryside and the Apennines. The combination of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and peaceful surroundings makes Brisighella a perfect base for exploring the Emilia-Romagna region.
Brisighella is famous for its Torre dell'Orologio, a medieval clock tower that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. The Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista is another notable landmark, a small church with historical and architectural significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Brisighella offers a range of hiking and cycling trails through the nearby hills, providing scenic views of the countryside and the Apennines. The combination of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and peaceful surroundings makes Brisighella a perfect base for exploring the Emilia-Romagna region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Rocca Manfrediana: This 14th-century fortress rises above the town on one of Brisighella’s three iconic hills. Originally built by the Manfredi family of Faenza, it features two towers and panoramic views over the Lamone Valley. Visitors can explore its ramparts and learn about its defensive history through small exhibitions inside.
- Via degli Asini: One of Brisighella’s most distinctive features, this arched medieval walkway is partially enclosed and elevated above street level. Once used by donkeys transporting chalk from the surrounding hills, it is now a unique pedestrian route lined with arched windows and historical charm.
- Santuario del Monticino: Perched on a second hill above the town, this sanctuary is dedicated to the Madonna del Monticino. The small church offers peaceful interiors and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular stop for walkers and pilgrims.
- Trekking and Natural Trails: Brisighella lies within the Parco Regionale della Vena del Gesso Romagnola, known for its chalky ridges, caves, and woodland paths. Popular routes include hikes between the town’s three hills—fortress, clock tower, and sanctuary—as well as longer trails through the gypsum formations and scenic ridgelines.
- Day Trip to Faenza: About 20 minutes away, Faenza is world-famous for its ceramics tradition. The Museo Internazionale delle Ceramiche and numerous artisan workshops offer a rich cultural experience that complements Brisighella’s medieval and natural appeal.
Comune di Brisighella
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Province: Ravenna
Region: Emilia Romagna Population: 7,173 (in 2024 - source) Size: 194 km² Elevation: 115 metres Close by: Faenza, Dozza, Terra del Sole, Castrocaro Terme, Imola |
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One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: La Fiesole di Romagna (The Fiesole of Romagna) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Since: 2005 1 of 12 in Emilia Romagna listed by Touring Club Italiano |
My recommended accommodation options for Brisighella:
- La Rocca Located just beneath the medieval fortress, this hotel offers classically furnished rooms in the heart of the historic centre. Guests appreciate the views of the surrounding hills, the traditional restaurant serving local cuisine, and walking access to Brisighella’s main landmarks. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Ca’ di Mezzo Set in the hills a few kilometres from the town, this agriturismo features rustic rooms and a peaceful rural atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the homegrown produce, panoramic views, and proximity to walking trails and scenic drives through the Apennines. €€ (mid-range)
- Modus Vivendi – Room & Breakfast Situated a short walk from the old town, this modern accommodation provides bright, stylish rooms with thoughtful touches. Guests value the fresh, homemade breakfast, helpful hosts, and the convenience of nearby restaurants and parking. €€ (mid-range)
- La Torretta A charming bed and breakfast set in a quiet corner of the historic centre, offering cosy rooms with original features and a small internal courtyard. Visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and the location near the Via degli Asini and Rocca Manfrediana. €€ (mid-range)
- La Casa delle Rondini Located in the countryside around 10 minutes by car from Brisighella, this guesthouse offers well-kept rooms in a converted farmhouse. Guests appreciate the warm welcome, spacious garden, and tranquil setting surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. €€ (mid-range)
- Ristorante La Rocca: Located near the base of Brisighella’s medieval fortress, La Rocca offers a refined menu rooted in Romagna’s culinary traditions. Dishes include handmade pasta, truffle specialities, and locally sourced meats, served in an elegant setting with views of the town’s hills. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria La Casetta: Situated within the historic centre, this cosy osteria is known for its traditional dishes such as passatelli in broth, tagliatelle al ragù, and rabbit with herbs. The warm interior and welcoming service make it a favourite for relaxed, authentic meals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Il Gigiò: Found just outside the old town, Il Gigiò serves generous portions of regional classics in a rustic setting. Expect polenta, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables, with a focus on simple, home-style flavours. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante La Grotta: Built into the rock face near one of Brisighella’s ancient walkways, this unique restaurant blends local cuisine with creative presentation. Highlights include wild boar, porcini mushrooms, and handmade desserts, offered in an atmospheric and intimate space. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Al Gambero: A casual option close to the town centre, Al Gambero serves a wide range of pizzas and light dishes in a family-friendly environment. It’s a convenient and affordable choice for an informal meal. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Brisighella Gallery
- Ravenna (approx. 45 km east of Brisighella): Famous for its stunning early Christian mosaics, Ravenna is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Basilica di San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. The town offers a charming blend of history and art, with its vibrant cultural scene and scenic, pedestrian-friendly streets.
- Faenza (approx. 25 km south of Brisighella): Known for its rich history in ceramics, Faenza is home to the Museo Internazionale delle Ceramiche, one of the most important ceramics museums in the world. The town also features several historical landmarks, including the Piazza del Popolo and the Faenza Cathedral, along with beautiful parks and gardens.
- Marradi (approx. 15 km northwest of Brisighella): A small town nestled in the Apennine hills, Marradi is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and traditional architecture. The town is particularly famous for its connection to the poet Dante Alighieri, who wrote part of the Divine Comedy here. Marradi is a great destination for nature walks, with plenty of hiking trails through the nearby hills.
- Dozza (approx. 35 km southwest of Brisighella): A picturesque hilltop town known for its vibrant, mural-covered streets, Dozza is home to the Rocca di Dozza, a medieval castle offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The town is also famous for its wine production, with local wineries offering tours and tastings of the region’s finest wines.
- Imola (approx. 35 km south of Brisighella): Known for the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, a motorsport race track that hosts various events, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Imola is also home to the Rocca Sforzesca, a Renaissance castle. The town offers a charming historic centre with local markets, cafes, and the Museo Civico San Domenico.
By Rail: Brisighella has its own train station on the Faenza–Florence railway line, served by Trenitalia regional services. Trains run regularly between Faenza and Florence, with journey times of around 15 minutes to Faenza and 1 hour and 45 minutes to Florence. From Bologna, travellers can reach Brisighella by changing trains in Faenza. The station is located about 1 kilometre from the historic centre and can be reached on foot or by local taxi.
By Road: Brisighella is situated in the foothills of the Apennines, in the province of Ravenna. It lies approximately 12 kilometres south-west of Faenza, 60 kilometres south-east of Bologna, and 80 kilometres north-east of Florence. The drive from Bologna takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A14 motorway and SP302. From Florence, the journey takes about 2 hours across scenic mountain roads. Public parking is available near the old town, with additional spaces just outside the historic area.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Brisighella is situated in the foothills of the Apennines, in the province of Ravenna. It lies approximately 12 kilometres south-west of Faenza, 60 kilometres south-east of Bologna, and 80 kilometres north-east of Florence. The drive from Bologna takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A14 motorway and SP302. From Florence, the journey takes about 2 hours across scenic mountain roads. Public parking is available near the old town, with additional spaces just outside the historic area.
Nearest International Airports:
- Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Located about 75 kilometres north-west of Brisighella, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Trains to Brisighella are available via a change at Faenza.
- Florence Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola): Situated around 95 kilometres south-west, the journey takes about 2 hours by car. Train travel is also possible with a change at Faenza.
- Rimini Airport (Aeroporto di Rimini Federico Fellini): Roughly 90 kilometres east of Brisighella, the drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Train connections are available via Bologna or Faenza.
