Piacenza is the capital of the province of the same name in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy Piacenza has fascinating architecture and monuments, including medieval castles and palaces.

Sights and Attractions

Piazza Cavalli in the city centre of Piacenza is the site of the Palazzo del Governatore and the Palazzo Gotico, two of the city’s most interesting buildings. The Palazzo Gotico was the old town hall. Featuring elaborate carvings on the exterior, the Duomo is built in the Romanesque style. Other splendid attractions include the Church of San Sisto and the Church of Sant’Antonio.

Bobbio in the Val Trebbia is a pretty medieval village. Visitors can explore the Abbey of San Colombano and Ponte Gobbo, as well as the Basilica di San Colombano. Grazzano Visconti in the scenic Val Nure has a neo-Gothic feel with nineteenth century buildings evoking styles from the fourteenth century. Also worth visiting is Castell’Arquato in the Val’Arda, home of the Praetorian Palace and a fourteenth century fortress. Medieval castles are also found at Gropparello, Paderna, Rivalta and Rocca d’Olgisio.

Activities

Set among poplars and sweeping plains, the River Po is a great destination for watersports including canoeing and kayaking. The river is also a popular spot for fishing and hiking, with kayaking being an option along the gorges of Val Trebbia. The Passo Penice ski resort provides runs for skiing and snowboarding during the winter, while cross country skiing trails are found in Bobbio.

Day Trips

To the east is Bologna, the largest city in Emilia Romagna. The historic city has stunning squares and beautiful buildings, as well as the world’s oldest university. Other towns within the region worthy of a visit include Parma, Ferrara and Ravenna.