Piacenza
Piacenza is a dignified northern city on the Po River with impressive medieval architecture and a rich gastronomic tradition tied to its proximity to Lombardy. The dramatic Piazza Cavalli with its equestrian statues is one of Italy's finest baroque squares.
Things to do
- Admire Piazza Cavalli — The twin 17th-century Farnese equestrian statues dominate this superb baroque square — best photographed at golden hour.
- Visit the Romanesque Cathedral — One of northern Italy's finest Romanesque interiors, with frescoes by Guercino and a beautiful crypt.
- Explore Palazzo Farnese Museums — The vast Farnese palace houses civic art collections including the famous ancient bronze Fegato di Piacenza.
- Walk Along the Po River Embankment — The wide Po riverbanks offer pleasant sunset strolls with views toward the Apennines.
- See the Basilica of Sant'Antonino — An unusual medieval basilica with an octagonal tower and fine carved portal, right in the historic center.
Food to try
- Coppa Piacentina — A DOP cured pork neck aged in wine and spices, more delicate than salami and deeply aromatic.
- Pisarei e Fasò — Tiny bread-and-flour gnocchi served with borlotti beans in tomato sauce — a humble Piacenza classic.
- Pancetta Piacentina — DOP rolled pancetta cured with black pepper and spices, sliced thin and served with local bread.
- Tortelli con la Coda — Long-tailed stuffed pasta filled with ricotta and herbs, a distinctive Piacenza shape unique to the area.
Local customs & good to know
- Piacenza feels closer to Milan culturally — Its northern location means the city has strong Lombard influences in dialect, food and architecture.
- Salumi are taken very seriously — The three PDO cured meats (Coppa, Pancetta, Salame) are points of extreme local pride — never compare them unfavorably.
- The city is often overlooked by tourists — Piacenza receives few foreign visitors which means a more authentic experience and genuinely warm local hospitality.