Fontanellato

Fontanellato​

Latest page update: 28 March 2025
By: Dion Protani
​​The town of Fontanellato is situated within the Province of Parma in Emilia Romagna and stands at an elevation of 45 metres above sea level. It has a population of around 7,000 inhabitants.

Unquestionably the main attraction of Fontanellato is the Rocca Sanvitale castle that stands in the town centre surrounded by a water-filled moat. The weekly market takes place here on Sundays.

What People Ask About Fontanellato

Where is Fontanellato located?
Fontanellato is located in the Emilia-Romagna region, in the province of Parma. It lies about 20 km west of Parma city and is easily accessible by road, near the A1 motorway and the Via Emilia.
What is Fontanellato known for?
Fontanellato is known for the Rocca Sanvitale, a moated castle in the centre of town. The castle houses a famous fresco by Parmigianino and is surrounded by a small historic centre with arcaded streets and a lively Sunday antiques market.
Is Fontanellato worth visiting?
Yes, Fontanellato is worth visiting for its well-preserved castle, artistic heritage, and pleasant town centre. It offers a relaxing stop for visitors exploring the Parma area or travelling between Bologna and Milan.
What can you see in Fontanellato?
Main sights include the Rocca Sanvitale and its Camera Ottica, a 17th-century optical chamber, as well as the frescoes by Parmigianino. The town also has a sanctuary, a small museum, and a monthly antiques fair in the piazza.
How do you get to Fontanellato?
Fontanellato is best reached by car. It's about 15 minutes from Parma by road and well connected to the A1 motorway. The nearest train station is in Fidenza, with local buses or taxis providing onward connections to the town.
Related links
Rocca Sanvitale
Fontanellato is dominated by the imposing Rocca Sanvitale around which the rest of the town is laid-out. The fortress, replete with its ghibelline (dovetail) battlements was built for the noble Sanvitale family between the 13th and 16th centuries. They only vacated it in 1951 at which point it was sold to the local council. 

One of the best living examples of a castle with a water-filled moat, it's possible to walk through and around La Rocca or to pay €4 to enter and explore some of its rooms. Within one room are the frescoes by Parmigianino called Diana and Acteon which he painted in the 16th century. Of equal interest is another room which acts as a "camera obscura", allowing a scene from the outside to be reflected inside. ​
Attractive historic centre
Around the castle and the moat are a series of arcades which conceal a series of shops and restaurants. The brightly coloured buildings contrast beautifully with the colours of the moat and the imposing fortress. It's a popular spot at weekends and particularly on Sundays when the market takes place. 

Away from the centre of Fontanellato and on the main road that skirts the pedestrianised area lies the second main sight in the town: the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virign of the Holy Rosary. The minor basilica was completed in the 17th century and is a beautiful Baroque edifice both inside and out. 

Four kilometres to the south of Fontanellato lies one of Europe's largest mazes. The Labirinto della Masone is an unusual complex consisting of geometric shapes and of course a maze that can leave you scratching your head for a good while. It's best reached by car and costs €18 to enter. 
Comune di Fontanellato
Province: Parma

Region: Emilia Romagna

Population: 7,113​ (in 2024 - source)

​​Total size: 53 km²​​

Elevation: 45 metres

Highlights: Rocca Sanvitale, Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin

Market day: Sunday morning

Close by: Fidenza, Busseto, Salsomaggiore Terme, Parma
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)

Since: 2005

1 of 12 in Emilia Romagna listed by Touring Club Italiano
My recommended accommodation options for Fontanellato:
  • Hotel Castello Located in the heart of Fontanellato, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with classic decor, a restaurant serving traditional Emilia-Romagna cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the welcoming atmosphere, and the proximity to the town’s historic sites, including the famous Rocca Sanvitale. €€ (mid-range)
  • B&B Il Torchio Situated just outside the town centre, this cosy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a lovely garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the peaceful surroundings, the personal touch of the hosts, and the easy access to Fontanellato’s main attractions and local wineries. €€ (mid-range)
  • Agriturismo Il Cavallino Set in the countryside near Fontanellato, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests value the rural setting, the authentic Emilia-Romagna experience, and the short drive to Fontanellato’s attractions and nearby towns. €€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel La Corte Located near the town centre, this well-regarded hotel offers bright rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant with local dishes, and a bar. Guests enjoy the clean facilities, friendly service, and the central location close to Fontanellato’s historic sites, including the Rocca Sanvitale and the beautiful fountains. €€ (mid-range)
  • B&B Le Stanze del Lupo Set in a peaceful location near Fontanellato, this bed and breakfast features stylish rooms, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests appreciate the quiet setting, the warm hospitality from the hosts, and the easy access to both the town’s attractions and the surrounding countryside. €€ (mid-range)

Fontanellato​​​​  Gallery

Emilia-Romagna Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations

1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini​
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna

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