Discovering the small duchy of Parma, between nature, culture and tourism

Parma is a special city. For centuries, it was of great cultural importance in Italy, even becoming one of its landmarks in terms of architecture and town planning, especially during the Farnese dynasty in the 17th century.

Even today, it offers a rare combination of history, culture, monuments and nature, captivating tourists and locals alike. If you want to find out what to see in Parma, we have gathered some of the most beautiful places in this destination in this guide.

Cathedral Square
 

The starting point for discovering Parma is Piazza Duomo, considered one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. It’s home to the Baptistery, the Bishop’s Palace and, most notably, the city’s cathedral. 

Parma Cathedral is considered a prime example of Lombard Romanesque architecture. Its history, which spans several architectural styles, began in the 12th century, while the famous cycle of frescoes painted by Correggio in the great dome dates back to the 16th century. 
 

The Monastery of St John the Evangelist

Among the things to see in Parma is the Monastery of San Giovanni Evangelista, a complex formed by the church, the monastery and the ancient apothecary’s shop. 

This distinctive building offers a fascinating journey through the history of medicine. Once entirely managed by monks, it boasts eight centuries of history and comprises four rooms.

In the first, the Sala del Fuoco, are the ancient counters for sales and weighing scales. Next is the Sala dei Mortai, where herbs and minerals were prepared. The third room, the Sala delle Sirene, houses the medical publications, while the last room, Sala degli Alambicchi, served as the actual laboratory and provided access to the cellar where ingredients are stored.
 

The National Gallery of Parma

If you are an art lover, the next stop is a must. Discover some of the greatest masterpieces of the Middle Ages at the National Gallery of Parma. The collection consists of paintings purchased in the 18th century in Tuscany, as well as those returned after the French plundering and acquisitions of Maria Luigia of Austria in the 19th century. 

Follow this chronological itinerary to admire paintings by Correggio, Parmigianino, El Greco, Guercino, Tintoretto and many other artists. Among the most famous paintings is Lenardo’s Head of a Girl. 
 

Palazzo della Pilotta

The Palazzo della Pilotta is a monumental complex that began construction in 1583 as an extension to the Palazzo Ducale. Over the decades, additional spaces were added to the initial connecting section, enriched by the Farnese dynasty’s collection.

 Today, the Palace houses the Farnese Theatre, the National Archaeological Museum, the Palatine Library, the National Gallery and the Bodoniano Museum.

Parma’s Teatro Regio

Parma’s Teatro Regio boasts an ancient history and a reputation as a temple of music. Commissioned by Maria Luigia of Habsburg, it has become one of the symbols of Parma, known as the City of Music, despite a rather disastrous opening night.

This evocative building is located a few steps away from the Palazzo della Pilotta and can be visited accompanied by a guide who will provide detailed insights into all its rooms.

The Ducal Park

There are several gardens and green spaces in Parma, of which the most famous is probably the Parco Ducale. Located in the historical centre, it spans over 200,000 square metres and has undergone various transformations throughout its long history, reflecting the different dominations in the region.

Currently, this public garden showcases a neoclassical appearance, resulting from a restoration carried out in the early 2000s. However, it has also been influenced by French design during the Bourbon rule. 

Hotels in Parma: where to stay

Now that you know all about Parma and its landmarks, all you need to do is book a room to enjoy a few days in the Emilian city.

The Grand Hotel di Parma | UNA Esperienze is the newest addition to the UNA Group’s most prestigious collection. A 5-star hotel located in the historic Palazzo Vighi, in the ancient and lively Oltretorrente district. 

The recent restyling has maintained the historical spirit and the most characteristic spaces of the charming palace, such as the majestic staircase that welcomes you at the entrance, the Carrara marble floors, the fine chandeliers and the halls embellished with elegant vaults.

The hotel has 59 rooms and suites overlooking the 10,000 sqm garden, just waiting to be explored. The hotel grounds also become home to events of all kinds, from small concerts to theme evenings, tastings, culinary tours, vernissages and much more. 

There’s also a prestigious restaurant with large, bright windows. In this intimate and sophisticated atmosphere, guests can enjoy a unique gastronomic experience, where traditional local dishes and international trends blend in harmony.

Parma is the ideal destination for a weekend full of history and culture. Now that you know its iconic sights, all you have to do is decide when to leave. In the city, you will also find a great hotel ready to take care of all aspects of your stay.