Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Parma, Italy

Parma, one of the largest cities in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, is renowned for its exquisite prosciutto and cheese. With a population of 192,000, the city has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and has maintained a significant role in the historical development of Italy.

During the Middle Ages, Parma was under the dominion of the Franks and was part of the Holy Roman Empire. However, in the 1200s, the city became embroiled in the conflict between the Guelphs and Ghibellines. In the 1800s, Parma was annexed by France under Napoleon’s rule before finally joining the Kingdom of Italy in 1860. Parma’s long and varied history, influenced by diverse cultures and ruling powers, has resulted in a wealth of historical sites and remarkable religious structures.

From the stunning Parma Cathedral to the impressive Teatro Regio and the intriguing Museo Glauco Lombardi, the city’s array of attractions caters to various interests. Besides its impressive sights, Parma boasts an exceptional selection of restaurants and cafés serving its world-famous cuisine.

Let us delve into the most remarkable experiences in Parma:

1. Parma Cathedral

Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Parma Cathedral is widely regarded as one of the most remarkable examples of Romanesque architecture in Italy, particularly noted for its splendid interior frescoes.

Situated at Piazza del Duomo in the heart of the historic town, the cathedral holds an esteemed position in the city’s landscape.

The main façade showcases a series of grand ornate arches, complemented by an enormous campanile adjacent to the church.

Within, the cathedral is adorned with intricate decorations, the centerpiece being the breathtaking fresco on the main dome.

This fresco, depicting the Assumption of the Virgin and painted by Correggio, remains vibrant with color and is celebrated as a prime example of Renaissance art.

2. Parma Baptistery

As the principal Baptistery of Parma, this structure is located adjacent to the cathedral, notably surpassing it in height and stature.

Towering over the adjacent buildings, the baptistery is characterized by its striking exterior artistry and arches.

While the exterior captivates, the interior truly astounds with detailed frescoes and marble statues.

Each octagonal wall panel is adorned with a distinct fresco painted in the 13th and 14th centuries, while the upper wall sections showcase statues of prominent Italians.

The ceiling is decorated with a magnificent segmented painting, each section illustrating a different religious figure.

3. Piazza Garibaldi

Parma boasts several delightful squares, with the most prominent being Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, located to the south of the cathedral in the historic town center.

This vibrant square is encircled by significant structures, including the imposing Palazzo del Governatore, the Comune di Parma, and the Church of Saint Paul the Apostle.

A bronze statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, a key figure in Italy’s unification, stands prominently in front of the Palazzo del Governatore.

This area provides a relaxing atmosphere, complemented by a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafés.

4. Teatro Farnese

Situated within the Palazzo della Pilotta complex, the Teatro Farnese is distinguished as one of the most notable wooden theatres still in existence.

Constructed in the 1600s, this theatre was the largest of its kind at the time, accommodating up to 4,500 spectators.

Despite significant damage during WWII, the theatre has undergone restoration, and visitors can now appreciate the intricate details of the wooden seating and walls.

The semi-circular seating area is framed by ornate wooden arches that originally served as boxes for the aristocracy of Parma.

5. Church of St. John the Evangelist

Located adjacent to the cathedral, the Church of St. John the Evangelist was established in the 1500s during the Renaissance era.

Constructed from the same pink marble as the cathedral, the church’s façade exhibits Romanesque features with intricate sculptures and a bell tower reaching 73 meters high.

Inside, the church is adorned with remarkable religious artwork and splendid decorative elements, including notable works by the esteemed artist Correggio.

Additionally, an adjoining monastery offers insights into religious history through a collection of ancient manuscripts and codexes.

6. Palazzo della Pilotta

This vast complex ranks among the largest in Parma and is situated in scenic grounds adjacent to the River Torrente Parma.

Constructed in the late 1500s, this structure has served multiple purposes, including as a royal palace and court facility.

Some sections of the building remain unfinished, resulting in an intriguing juxtaposition of austere stone architecture alongside ornately adorned façades and elegant arched walkways.

Within the complex, visitors can explore The National Gallery, The Biblioteca Palatina, and the majestic Teatro Farnese.

7. Parco Ducale

Among the many beautiful parks in Parma, few compare to the expansive and lush Parco Ducale.

Spanning over 200 square meters, this park serves as a principal site for recreation in Parma, simply referred to as “The Garden.” Located across the river adjacent to the Palazzo della Pilotta, the park is easily accessible.

Visitors can enjoy various pleasant pathways lined with greenery, and the stunning Fontana del Trianon, which is surrounded by a picturesque body of water.

Impeccably designed, the park’s layout and aesthetic appeal are delightful, making Parco Ducale an ideal retreat for relaxation.

8. Palazzo del Governatore

Constructed in the 1200s, this historic edifice served as a crucial government building for centuries and features Baroque and Neoclassical design elements.

Located at Piazza Garibaldi, this imposing structure spans the entire width of the square, with a central bell tower prominently displaying a large clock face that towers over the nearby buildings.

Inside, visitors can explore the wonderful Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, which hosts a remarkable collection of contemporary works and rotating exhibitions.

9. Museo archeologico Nazionale di Parma

Another significant institution within the Palazzo della Pilotta complex, the National Archaeological Museum was established in 1790 and has been home to a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts and relics since its inception.

Today, the museum’s extensive collection features a colossal head of the Greek god Zeus, artifacts from excavations at Palatine Hill, various ancient Egyptian treasures, and an impressive assortment of Greek vases and pottery.

Additonally, there are splendid exhibits showcasing finds from the Bronze Age and Iron Age, collected from the Emilia-Romagna region.

10. Visit Torrechiara

For those seeking a day excursion from Parma, the tranquil village of Torrechiara presents a unique experience.

Just a 35-minute car ride south of Parma, this quaint village provides a glimpse of the beautiful Italian countryside along your route.

The main highlight of this village is the impressive Castello di Torrechiara, built in the 1400s.

This grand structure dominates the village, perched atop a small hill and providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

While the castle’s architecture is exceptionally well-preserved, the interior boasts a variety of elegantly decorated rooms, including the famous Camera d’Oro (Golden Chamber).

11. The National Gallery of Parma

This highly regarded art gallery is found within the Palazzo della Pilotta complex, located in the historic town center.

The collection has been curated over time, with many works accumulating since the Renaissance period.

Prominent artists included in the exhibits are Leonardo da Vinci, Anthony Van Dyck, Correggio, and Canaletto.

Art lovers will find this splendid display truly monumental, showcasing a wonderful variety and high quality of works.

12. Teatro Regio

Situated adjacent to the Palazzo della Pilotta, the Teatro Regio is another spectacular theatre still in operation today.

While the exterior of the theatre may appear unassuming, the interior is a vision of beauty and is recognized as one of the finest theatres in Italy.

With a seating capacity of 1,400, the theatre offers an intimate atmosphere, allowing the audience to be close to the action.

The circular seating arrangement is elegantly adorned with red velvet and gold accents, complemented by five tiers of individual box seats.

In addition, the ceiling and walls are richly decorated with intricate designs.

13. Orto Botanico di Parma

Managed by the University of Parma, this botanical garden is located on Viale Martiri della Liberta in the city’s center.

The garden features a diverse collection of plant and tree species.

Notable varieties include several aquatic plants such as Butomus Umbellatus and Lemna Minor, alongside tree species including Ginkgo and Magnolia.

Additionally, there are various greenhouses housing an exquisite selection of tropical plants and fruits.

14. Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Steccata

This exquisite church in the heart of Parma showcases a Renaissance design and is truly a magnificent structure.

The symmetrical exterior architecture is punctuated by rounded towers, while the interior reveals an abundance of colorful frescoes and ornate decorations.

Each of the four circular towers features a ceiling adorned in gold, while the central dome serves as a focal point.

The main fresco, painted in vibrant colors, illustrates the scene of the Ascension, partly executed by the acclaimed Parma artist Bernardino Gatti.

15. Museo Glauco Lombardi

This museum presents a unique perspective on the life of the legendary military leader and emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte, and his wife Marie.

Located at Piazza della Pace in central Parma, it serves as a fascinating stop during any city tour, offering a distinctive glimpse into history.

Visitors will discover an impressive selection of photographs, artifacts, and letters that delve into Napoleons personal life and his cherished relationship with his wife—an often overlooked aspect overshadowed by his military feats.