Piacenza
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 19 November 2023
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The city of Piacenza is the capital city of the Province of Piacenza with a population of 103,942 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 61 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 118 km² and lies 160 kilometres north west of Bologna, the regional capital of Emilia Romagna. The main sight in Piacenza is its 12th century Romanesque cathedral which stands on Piazza Duomo. The city's main square however is Piazza Cavalli, home to the Palazzo Gotico. |
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The Palazzo Gotico is sometimes referred to as the Palazzo Comunale and from here it's a 6 minute walk (500 metres) to the Basilica di Sant'Antonino. Another Romanesque structure, construction first started on the Basilica in the 4th century. On the way from Piazza Cavalli to the Basilica di Sant'Antonino you can take in another of the city's important churches, the Chiesa di San Francesco.
Two further basilicas lay on the outskirts of the city; the Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna lies at Piacenza's north west perimeter while the Basilica di San Savino is on the opposite edge. Both basilicas are roughly 15 minutes' walk from the city centre. A slightly shorter distance from the centre (500 metres) is the Palazzo Farnese which is home to the Civic Museums and the Piacenza Archaeological Museum.
Two further basilicas lay on the outskirts of the city; the Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna lies at Piacenza's north west perimeter while the Basilica di San Savino is on the opposite edge. Both basilicas are roughly 15 minutes' walk from the city centre. A slightly shorter distance from the centre (500 metres) is the Palazzo Farnese which is home to the Civic Museums and the Piacenza Archaeological Museum.
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Piacenza is a historic town located in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. It is the capital city of the province of Piacenza and lies along the banks of the Po River. Piacenza is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and charming atmosphere, making it an attractive destination for tourists.
History
Piacenza has ancient origins, dating back to Roman times when it was established as a Roman colony in 218 BC and named Placentia. The city played a crucial role in Roman military campaigns and served as a strategic stronghold along the Via Emilia, an ancient Roman road connecting Rimini to Milan.
Over the centuries, Piacenza witnessed various rulers, including the Visconti and Sforza families, and was later incorporated into the Duchy of Parma and Piacenza. During the Renaissance, the city flourished as a cultural and artistic center.
Over the centuries, Piacenza witnessed various rulers, including the Visconti and Sforza families, and was later incorporated into the Duchy of Parma and Piacenza. During the Renaissance, the city flourished as a cultural and artistic center.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Piazza dei Cavalli: This iconic square is the heart of Piacenza and features two stunning equestrian statues of Alessandro Farnese and Ranuccio Farnese, created by the artist Francesco Mochi.
- Palazzo Gotico: Also known as the Palazzo Comunale, this impressive Gothic-style building houses the city's municipal offices and showcases beautiful frescoes.
- Palazzo Farnese: A grand Renaissance palace constructed in the 16th century, Palazzo Farnese is now home to the Civic Museums, displaying significant art collections.
- Piacenza Cathedral (Duomo): This Romanesque cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, is a masterpiece of architecture, featuring a stunning facade and a magnificent interior.
- Basilica of Sant'Antonino: This ancient church is one of the oldest in Piacenza, with origins dating back to the 4th century.
- Museo Civico di Palazzo Farnese: The city's civic museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts.
- Local Cuisine: Piacenza is renowned for its culinary delights, including traditional dishes like pisarei e fasò (a type of pasta with beans) and coppa piacentina (a local cured meat).
- Farnese Theater: This well-preserved theater, located within Palazzo Farnese, is one of the oldest theaters in Italy.
- Parco Galleana: A beautiful park in the city, perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation.
Comune di Piacenza
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Province: Piacenza
Region: Emilia Romagna Population: 102,731 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2022) Size: 118 km² Elevation: 61 metres Highlights: Piacenza Cathedral, Palazzo Gotico, Piazza Cavalli Close by: Grazzano Visconti, Castell'Arquato, Vigoleno, Bobbio Recommended hotel: Grande Albergo Roma |
Piacenza Travel
Piacenza's train station is situated 1.3 kilometres from Piazza Cavalli, a walk of 16 minutes or a 6 minute bus ride using the number 2 or number 16 buses. Heading south east you can take a train from Piacenza to Bologna in 1 hour 22 minutes; the same train terminates at Pescara on the Adriatic Coast (4 hours 37 minutes), stopping along the way at Parma (34 minutes), Reggio Emilia (48 mins), Modena (1 hour 1 minute), Faenza (1 hour 48 minutes), Forlì (1 hour 57 minutes), Cesena (2 hours 9 minutes) and Rimini (2 hours 31 minutes).
The most convenient airports for Piacenza are Milan Linate Airport which is 50 minutes away by car (67 km), Bergamo Orio al Serio - 1 hour 14 minutes (109 km), Milan Malpensa - 1 hour 26 minutes (121 km) and Bologna Airport which is an hour and 29 minutes away by car (147 km). A fourth option is Verona Airport which is an hour and 25 minutes, a distance of 136 kilometres.
The most convenient airports for Piacenza are Milan Linate Airport which is 50 minutes away by car (67 km), Bergamo Orio al Serio - 1 hour 14 minutes (109 km), Milan Malpensa - 1 hour 26 minutes (121 km) and Bologna Airport which is an hour and 29 minutes away by car (147 km). A fourth option is Verona Airport which is an hour and 25 minutes, a distance of 136 kilometres.
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Public transport: train station 1.3 km from centre, local buses
By train: Parma - 34 minutes, Reggio Emilia - 48 minutes |
By car: Parma - 53 mins (64 km), Reggio Emilia - 1 hr 9 mins (91 km)
Fly to: Milan Linate Airport - 50 minutes by car (67 km) |
