Parco Ducale (Parma)
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 6 January 2024
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The Parco Ducale of Parma is one of the largest public spaces in the city and a quiet contrast to the busy streets of the centre. From the Palazzo della Pilotta to the Parco Ducale is a walk of just three minutes across the Ponte Verdi which spans the Parma River.
Covering 21 hectares, the park shares a part of its name with the 16th century Palazzo Ducale which lies in its north-east corner. |
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Ironically the Palace is also called the Palazzo del Giardino after the park itself, with the whole complex constructed at the same time in an effort to aggrandise the city. The Palazzo Ducale is now used by the local Carabineri and isn't open to the public (unless you commit a crime presumably), but there are a couple of other public buildings in the park, including the Teatro al Parco and a small library.
The wide, tree-lined pathways of the park eventually lead to a lake with a tiny island which has the Fontana del Trianon, an eighteenth century monumental fountain as its centrepiece. Ducks and turtles can also be found in the pretty lake.
The wide, tree-lined pathways of the park eventually lead to a lake with a tiny island which has the Fontana del Trianon, an eighteenth century monumental fountain as its centrepiece. Ducks and turtles can also be found in the pretty lake.
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Parco Ducale, also known as the Ducal Park, is a magnificent public park situated in the city of Parma, in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. This historical park is an enchanting green space that holds both cultural and natural significance, offering a delightful experience for locals and tourists alike.
History
The history of Parco Ducale dates back to the 16th century when it was originally designed as a private garden for the Farnese family, the ruling dukes of Parma and Piacenza.
The renowned architect Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola, along with other prominent artists and landscapers, contributed to the park's creation. Throughout the centuries, the park underwent various renovations and enhancements, while still maintaining its core design and historical charm.
The renowned architect Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola, along with other prominent artists and landscapers, contributed to the park's creation. Throughout the centuries, the park underwent various renovations and enhancements, while still maintaining its core design and historical charm.
Key features
Parco Ducale is a sprawling park that covers a vast area and is a treasured gem within Parma. Its well-manicured lawns, picturesque flowerbeds, and towering trees create a serene and inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
The park features a network of tree-lined paths that are perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or simply enjoying a peaceful retreat amidst nature. As you explore the park, you will encounter several charming fountains, statues, and decorative elements that add to the park's beauty and historical significance.
One of the main attractions within Parco Ducale is the Palazzo Ducale, or Ducal Palace, which is an elegant Renaissance building located at the park's center. The Palazzo Ducale was the residence of the Farnese family during their rule and is now used for cultural and artistic events. Its architectural grandeur and rich history make it a must-visit site within the park.
Parco Ducale also houses the Teatro Farnese, a wooden theater that is one of the most important examples of Renaissance theater architecture. While the theater itself is not operational, it is open for visitors to admire its historical importance.
The park provides ample space for outdoor activities and relaxation. Locals and tourists often come here for picnics, enjoying a book under the shade of a tree, or engaging in recreational games.
In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Parco Ducale hosts various cultural events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year, adding vibrancy and entertainment to the park's ambiance.
The park features a network of tree-lined paths that are perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or simply enjoying a peaceful retreat amidst nature. As you explore the park, you will encounter several charming fountains, statues, and decorative elements that add to the park's beauty and historical significance.
One of the main attractions within Parco Ducale is the Palazzo Ducale, or Ducal Palace, which is an elegant Renaissance building located at the park's center. The Palazzo Ducale was the residence of the Farnese family during their rule and is now used for cultural and artistic events. Its architectural grandeur and rich history make it a must-visit site within the park.
Parco Ducale also houses the Teatro Farnese, a wooden theater that is one of the most important examples of Renaissance theater architecture. While the theater itself is not operational, it is open for visitors to admire its historical importance.
The park provides ample space for outdoor activities and relaxation. Locals and tourists often come here for picnics, enjoying a book under the shade of a tree, or engaging in recreational games.
In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Parco Ducale hosts various cultural events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year, adding vibrancy and entertainment to the park's ambiance.
Opening times
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April to October
06:00 - 24:00 |
November to March
07:00 - 20:00 |
Parco Ducale
