Archive for 'Emilia-Romagna'

This week we're talking all about the beautiful Renaissance city of Ferrara and explaining why a visit is a must for those who have found a holiday rental in Emilia Romagna. A fascinating place that can rival many of the great cities of Italy, it is steeped in history, culture and art and boasts much to see and do. We are continuing to extol some of the cities many charms with more entries into our list of the top ten things you must do in Ferrara...

4. Grab a Drink In The Oldest Wine Bar In The World

Al Brindisi is a bar located right next to the city's lovely Cathedral and it happens to date back to 1435, making it the oldest wine bar in the world. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Ferrara and offers lots of traditional local dishes and great wines. Whether you try the cuisine or just pop in for a drink, make sure to pencil it in.

The stunning historic centre of Ferrara is enclosed by over nine kilometres of walls, and is a gorgeous Renaissance city, full of lovely buildings, fascinating cultural gems, and plenty of surprises, it is a UNESCO awarded beauty. With its impossibly charming setting and the vast array of things to see and do, this lesser-known gem among international tourists is a wonderful place to head to for day trips of exploring its many attractions and secrets. In fact, the city boasts a lot of the same charms as Florence but without the tourist crowds. Just find a holiday rental in Emilia Romagna and come uncover its appeal for yourself.

Here are ten things to see, do and keep an eye out for on your trip to Ferrara...

1. Visit The Castello Estense

This imposing castle was the result of townspeople turning on the ruling d'Este family during a time of high taxes and poverty in the 14th century.

Some things are so ubiquitous, yet undeniably good, that though they could easily be passed over as a given, they deserve a mention. Bologna's signature dish, its great phenomenon, Bolognese, can now be found on menus the world over. It is a staple dish in households globally and is even easy to make. Yet, despite our familiarity with it, it shouldn't be forgotten. Served as a meaty, tomato ragù served over freshly made egg tagliatelle (which is tradition, rather than the spaghetti is is often associated with), it is wholesome and comforting and tasty.

And it is best enjoyed on a trip to the food-loving capital city of Emilia-Romagna. Just find a vacation rental near Bologna and come try the authentic thing, freshly and perfectly made. Or, if you can't wait, why not try it at home and then get planning your getaway to this beautiful city?

The Tempio della Beata Vergine della Ghiara, or Temple of the Blessed Virgin of Ghiara, also known as Basilica della Madonna della Ghiara, is a stunning church located in the city of Reggio Emilia, in northern Italy. One of the many lovely architectural gems in this lesser-known and lesser-celebrated Italian cities, it is one more reason to find a holiday rental in Emilia-Romagna and head on a day trip to this charming town.

In 1596, a mute boy is said to have recovered his voice before a 14th-century representation of the Virgin painted on a gravel wall (or “ghiara” in italian) by artist Lelio Orsi and when news of the miracle spread, it began to attract lots of pilgrims. As a result, it was decided to erect a basilica on the site, into which the votive fresco was moved.

The Palazzo della Pilotta is a palace and complex of structures that is located between the Piazzale della Pace and the Lungoparma in the historic centre of the lovely Italian city of Parma. Vast but incomplete, the palace was built for the Farnese family in the 16th and 17th centuries, at the order of Duke Ottavio Farnese and then under Duke Ranuccio I. Built around a preexisting Visconti stronghold and a church, it was designed as a headquarters for the court and state services – such as stables, store rooms, arms rooms, theatre, barracks and more – rather than as a residence.