Parma Province
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Parma Province occupies a geographical area of 3,447 square kilometres including the provincial capital: Parma.
Within the province there are 47 provincial towns, which contain a total population of around 451 thousand inhabitants. Among the highlights of the province are the towns of Fontanellato, Salsomaggiore Terme, Fidenza and Giuseppe Verdi's Busseto. |
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Parma Province • Emilia-Romagna • Northern Italy
The province of Parma is located in the central-northern part of Emilia-Romagna, bordered by the Po River to the north and the Apennine Mountains to the south. Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and exceptional cuisine, Parma offers a blend of history, art, and nature. The city of Parma, the provincial capital, is renowned for its elegant architecture, as well as its contributions to music and food.
Parma itself is home to several significant landmarks, such as the magnificent Parma Cathedral and the adjacent Baptistery, both excellent examples of Romanesque architecture. The Palazzo della Pilotta, a grand historical building, houses the National Gallery, the Teatro Farnese, and the Bodoni Museum, showcasing the city’s rich artistic and cultural legacy. Parma is also known for its association with classical music, particularly opera, as it was the birthplace of the famous composer Giuseppe Verdi. The Teatro Regio is a key venue for performances, and the city celebrates its musical heritage through festivals and events throughout the year.
The province surrounding the city is equally rich in attractions. The rolling hills of the Apennines provide ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring picturesque villages such as Langhirano, famous for its production of prosciutto. Parma is renowned worldwide for its culinary delights, particularly Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Parma ham, both of which can be sampled in local trattorias and at food festivals. The province also boasts beautiful natural reserves such as the Parco Regionale dei Boschi di Carrega, where visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through dense forests. With its combination of cultural landmarks, exceptional cuisine, and natural beauty, Parma offers a diverse and enriching experience for visitors.
Parma itself is home to several significant landmarks, such as the magnificent Parma Cathedral and the adjacent Baptistery, both excellent examples of Romanesque architecture. The Palazzo della Pilotta, a grand historical building, houses the National Gallery, the Teatro Farnese, and the Bodoni Museum, showcasing the city’s rich artistic and cultural legacy. Parma is also known for its association with classical music, particularly opera, as it was the birthplace of the famous composer Giuseppe Verdi. The Teatro Regio is a key venue for performances, and the city celebrates its musical heritage through festivals and events throughout the year.
The province surrounding the city is equally rich in attractions. The rolling hills of the Apennines provide ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring picturesque villages such as Langhirano, famous for its production of prosciutto. Parma is renowned worldwide for its culinary delights, particularly Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Parma ham, both of which can be sampled in local trattorias and at food festivals. The province also boasts beautiful natural reserves such as the Parco Regionale dei Boschi di Carrega, where visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through dense forests. With its combination of cultural landmarks, exceptional cuisine, and natural beauty, Parma offers a diverse and enriching experience for visitors.
Highlights
- Parma City: The capital city of Parma is famous for its beautiful architecture, including the striking pink-marble Parma Cathedral and the Palazzo della Pilotta, a historical complex that houses the National Gallery, the Farnese Theater, and the Palatine Library.
- Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese: Parma is renowned for producing Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, one of Italy's most famous cheeses. Tourists can visit local dairies to witness the cheese-making process and taste this delicious product.
- Prosciutto di Parma: The province is also famous for producing Prosciutto di Parma, a cured ham with a delicate flavor. Visitors can explore the local prosciutto producers and indulge in this Italian delicacy.
- Castles and Fortresses: Parma Province is dotted with ancient castles and fortresses, such as the Torrechiara Castle, offering a glimpse into the region's medieval past.
- Culatello di Zibello: Another renowned local delicacy is Culatello di Zibello, a prized and rare type of cured pork meat. Food enthusiasts can taste this unique specialty in local eateries.
- Natural Parks: The province is blessed with natural beauty, including the Parco dei Cento Laghi (Park of a Hundred Lakes) and the Regional Park of the Boschi di Carrega, offering opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Art and Culture: Parma has a rich cultural scene with various museums, art galleries, and theaters showcasing local and international talent.
- Festivals and Events: Throughout the year, Parma hosts numerous festivals and events celebrating its culinary heritage, music, and arts.
Provincia di Parma
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Region: Emilia Romagna
Provincial capital: Parma Population: 454,537 (in 2024 - source) Size: 3,447 km² Comunes: 47 Province code: PR |
Neighbouring provinces: Piacenza, Reggio Emilia, Metropolitan City of Genoa, Mantua, Massa and Carrara
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