A Renaissance gem in northern Italy with well-preserved walls, seven bastions, and moats. This UNESCO World Heritage Site sits along the Po River, 50 km from Bologna.
Ferrara, a city in northern Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, captivates visitors with its Renaissance architecture and bike-friendly streets. The Este Castle stands tall in the city center, while the Palazzo dei Diamanti showcases art from local painters. As you walk along the medieval walls and taste cappellacci di zucca, a local pasta dish, you'll understand why UNESCO named Ferrara a World Heritage site.
Este Castle
The 14th-century Este Castle is a prominent landmark in Ferrara's center. Its moat, drawbridges, and four towers represent medieval military design. You can tour the interior rooms, which were later used as a ducal residence. For a view of Ferrara's terracotta rooftops, climb to the top of the Lion Tower.
Biking the City Walls
Ferrara is known for its extensive use of bicycles, with many locals and visitors cycling along the car-free streets. You can rent a bike to ride the 9 km circuit of Renaissance walls around the old town. As you pedal, take time to look at the defensive bastions and gates that once guarded the city. The path on top of the walls is lined with trees and offers views of both the historic center and nearby countryside.
Local Food and Drink
Emilia-Romagna's culinary traditions are present in Ferrara's local dishes. Try cappellacci di zucca, a pumpkin-filled pasta served with butter and sage or meat ragù. You can visit Al Brindisi, which opened in 1435 and claims to be the world's oldest wine bar. Here, you can pair local wines with coppia ferrarese, a twisted bread loaf whose recipe dates back to the 12th century and now has protected status.
Jewish Quarter
Ferrara's Jewish community was an important part of the city during the Renaissance under the Este family's rule. You can explore the former ghetto along Via Mazzini, where you'll find the synagogue and Jewish Museum. The museum tells the story of the community from medieval times through World War II. In the nearby Jewish cemetery, you can see the grave of Italian novelist Giorgio Bassani, who wrote about Jewish life in Ferrara.
Renaissance Art
The Palazzo dei Diamanti, named for its facade of diamond-shaped marble blocks, contains a significant collection of art. Inside, you'll see works by local Renaissance painters like Cosme Tura and Francesco del Cossa. The Palazzo Schifanoia is another notable site, with frescoes depicting the months of the year and astrological signs. These scenes provide insight into the court life of the Este dukes.
Getting There and Around
Ferrara is located halfway between Bologna and Venice, making it a good option for a day trip from either city. Direct trains run often from Bologna (30 minutes) and Venice. In Ferrara, you can walk around the compact historic center easily. For longer distances, you can rent a bicycle from shops near the train station or castle, just like many locals do.
