Compiano​

Latest page update: 10 April 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The town of Compiano is situated within the Province of Parma and has a population of around 1,100 residents.

It stands at an elevation of 520 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 Bobbio, Salsomaggiore Terme, Parma and Castell'Arquato. 
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Compiano Overview
Compiano, located in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a small, picturesque village set in the hills of the Parma province. Known for its medieval charm and stunning natural surroundings, Compiano offers a tranquil retreat amidst the rugged landscape of the Apennine Mountains. The village’s traditional character, with its stone houses and narrow streets, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the beauty of rural Italy.
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Compiano is famous for its Castello di Compiano, a medieval castle perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The town is also home to the Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo, a historic church with significant architectural value. For outdoor enthusiasts, Compiano provides a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails that lead through the surrounding hills, offering scenic views of the valley and the Apennines. The village’s combination of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and peaceful surroundings makes it a perfect base for exploring the Emilia-Romagna region.
Top Things to Do in Compiano
  • Castello di Compiano: This hilltop castle dominates the village and dates back to the early Middle Ages. Once a strategic stronghold of the Malaspina and Landi families, it now houses a museum with historical furnishings, artworks, and exhibitions, as well as offering panoramic views over the Taro Valley.
  • Historic Village and Stone Architecture: The village is listed among Italy’s Borghi più Belli and features narrow lanes, stone houses, and arched gateways. The compact centre retains its medieval charm, with flower-filled balconies and quiet corners that reflect centuries of continuous settlement.
  • Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista: This parish church stands near the castle and features Baroque interiors with wooden altars, stucco decorations, and paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. It remains an important part of the village’s religious and cultural life.
  • Trekking and Scenic Walks: Compiano is surrounded by hills and forests, offering nature trails suitable for hiking and walking. Routes from the village lead to nearby viewpoints, riverside paths, and connections with the wider Appennino Parmense, ideal for those exploring the area on foot.
  • Day Trip to Bardi: Around 25 minutes away, Bardi is home to an even larger fortress and a historic centre with additional dining and cultural options. It complements a visit to Compiano with further insights into the region’s feudal and military history.
Comune di Compiano
Province: Parma

Region: Emilia Romagna

Population: 1,048​​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 37 km²

​Elevation: 520 metres

Close by: Bobbio, Salsomaggiore Terme, Parma, Castell'Arquato

Recommended stay: Hotel Residence Sant'Anna (3 km)
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)

Listing headline: Il Borgo dei Girovaghi (The Village of the Wanderers)

Compiano​​  Gallery

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