Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Forli, Italy

Forli is a picturesque commune located in northern Italy, serving as the capital of the Forli-Cesena province. With a population of 118,600, it ranks among the larger cities in the Romagna region and plays a significant role as an agricultural hub. The principal products of this area encompass silk, apparel, household items, and rayon.

Historically, archaeological evidence indicates that Forli has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic era. The initial settlement during the Roman Empire is thought to date back to approximately 188 BC, coinciding with the construction of a forum and the Via Aemilia. Following the disintegration of the Roman Empire, Forli fell under the dominion of the Ostrogoths and later the Holy Roman Emperors.

In contemporary times, the city endured considerable destruction during World War II but subsequently experienced a remarkable resurgence, transforming into a flourishing economic center. As a tourist attraction, Forli boasts a wealth of historical landmarks, including the Sam Mercuriale Abbey and the Palazzo del Podesta. The city benefits from a strategic position in the region, conveniently close to several national parks and the stunning Adriatic coast.

Let us delve into the most remarkable activities in Forli:

1. San Mercuriale Abbey

Situated in the Piazza Aurelio Saffi, the Basilica Abbey of San Mercuriale is an impressive structure that serves as the principal religious institution in Forli. Constructed in the 12th century, the existing church is a restoration of an earlier version that suffered damage from a fire.

Exhibiting a Romanesque architectural style, the front façade, while relatively understated, is appealing, and the grand bell tower dominates the Forli skyline. Inside the Abbey, one may admire a collection of renowned artworks from artists such as Passignano and Tempesta. In addition to the paintings and frescoes, the church also features exquisite wooden choir stalls and several ornate chapels.

2. Piazza Aurelio Saffi

The Piazza Aurelio Saffi is among the central squares in Forli. Accessible by foot, this square is home to several significant landmarks. Noteworthy buildings include the San Mercuriale Abbey, the historic post office, the Palazzo Comunale, and the Chiesa del Suffragio. At the center of the Piazza stands a marble statue depicting Aurelio Saffi, a crucial politician during the unification of Italy. The architectural design of this square is remarkable, and there are numerous shops and restaurants available for exploration. On specific days, local markets are also hosted here, infusing the square with vibrant trading activity.

3. Parco Urbano Franco Agosto

This extensive public park is situated on the southwestern edge of the city center and serves as one of Forli’s primary recreational areas. Honoring the city’s first mayor, the park spans over 20 hectares and provides multiple access points. On one side, the River Montone flows adjacent to a series of wooded trails ideal for traversing. Additionally, the park features a large lake, a pizza restaurant, and several expansive lawns, making it an ideal location for relaxation on warm summer days—perfect for family picnics amidst beautiful scenery.

4. San Domenico Museum

Adjacent to the San Mercuriale Abbey, the San Domenico Museum complex is impressive. Located in the Piazza Guido da Montefeltro, this collection of museums occupies an ancient monastery established in the 13th century, which has undergone restoration. Within this complex are the Palazzo Pasquali, Convento degli Agostiniani, and Convento dei Domenicani—each showcasing remarkable artworks, frescoes, and intricate architectural details. The museums contain various works that reflect the religious history of the region, along with temporary exhibitions dedicated to specific artists.

5. Forli Cathedral

This structure resembles the ancient Roman Pantheon more than a traditional cathedral and features an ornate pediment supported by six orange columns. Located in the eponymous Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral is conveniently within walking distance of Forli’s center and represents an exemplary piece of neoclassical architecture. Beyond the striking front façade, the interior boasts a series of impressive marble columns lining the aisles. The Chapel of Our Lady of Fire is elaborately decorated, showcasing an abundance of gold, marble, and exquisite artwork. Additionally, the main dome features a colorful fresco depicting the ascension of Christ, making this church a magnificently stunning site to visit.

6. Palazzo del Podesta

A modest yet significant structure situated in the Piazza Saffi, the Palazzo del Podesta (Palace of the People) was constructed in 1460 atop the remains of a previous building. The edifice features an ornate Gothic style with arches forming a portico on the ground floor that faces the square. Moreover, above the portico lies a small circular balcony originally designed to conceal the cages that once displayed corpses or convicts awaiting trial.

7. Parco Nazionale Foreste Casentinesi

The Casentinesi Forest is an expansive area designated as an Italian National Park since 1933, reachable in approximately one hour from Forli. Spanning 368 square kilometers, it ranks among the largest parks in the region. The park is characterized by dense woodlands, and mountainous terrain, including Monte Falco. Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter various species, including the Apennines Wolf, Eurasian Badger, Red Deer, and Fallow Deer. Furthermore, a comprehensive network of hiking trails facilitates exploration of this breathtaking landscape.

8. Visit the coastal town of Cesenatico

Forli enjoys proximity to Italy’s eastern coast along the Adriatic Sea. Cesenatico is a delightful coastal town, reachable from Forli in just 40 minutes. Regular bus and train services connect the two locations. Cesenatico boasts a beautiful coastline adorned with bars, restaurants, and resorts, offering an ideal escape from the city’s bustle to bask in Italy’s splendid weather. The promenade and town center feature diverse shops and dining options, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

9. Sample a local Italian dish at the Trattoria Petito restaurant

Italian cuisine is simply exquisite, particularly when prepared in Italy at a local restaurant utilizing traditional methods and ingredients. Trattoria Petito is an establishment renowned for serving exceptional authentic Italian dishes in the heart of Forli. Situated on Via di Porta Cotogni, the restaurant occupies its own building, conveniently located near the university and Rocca di Ravaldino. Popular offerings include carbonara, tortellini, lasagna, alongside various meat and fish courses. The presentation of dishes is impeccable, characterized by meticulous attention to detail. For an elevated dining experience in a pleasant atmosphere, this restaurant is ideal!

10. Porta Schiavonia

The Schiavonia Gate represents the last remnant of the city’s former robust defensive system. Positioned at the western boundary of Forli, this remarkable gate was constructed in the 1200s, originally part of the city wall. Over the years, the gate has undergone several modifications and fortifications. Now located in Piazzale di Porta Schiavonia, this monument remains in excellent condition, allowing visitors to appreciate its main archway adorned with an ornate pediment, along with sections of the city wall and two defensive guard towers.

11. Parco della Resistenza

Another exquisite park in the center of Forli, Parco della Resistenza is situated in the southwestern part of the city, with the main entrance located adjacent to the Monumento ai Caduti. Originally designed in 1816, the park features an Italian design influenced by English landscape gardening. This park is genuinely beautiful, adorned with elegant fountains and lush trees and plants. Additionally, visitors can rent bicycles from a kiosk within the park to explore its pathways and the surrounding city.

12. Rocca di Ravaldino

Forli is home to numerous historically significant architectural structures, with Rocca di Ravaldino being one of the most important. This fortress functioned as a defensive complex for the city during the 14th century and underwent further reinforcement and expansion in the 15th century. Nestled among a wooded area adjacent to the city prison, the castle presents a photogenic sight featuring four round towers and crenulated walls. While entry to the castle is prohibited, it remains an imposing structure and an excellent location for leisurely walks and photography.

13. Torre Civica

This majestic tower has endured for centuries, witnessing both devastation and restoration. Initially constructed in the 14th century, it was destroyed during World War II and subsequently rebuilt in the 1970s. Standing at 65 meters tall, it is the tallest structure in Forli, towering over the surrounding buildings and the Piazza Aurelio Saffi. Visitors passing through the historic town center cannot miss this impressive edifice, which serves as a testament to the city’s history.

14. Enjoy a fine ale at the Barbeer pub

For a lively night out in Forli and to sample an array of beverages, the Barbeer pub represents an excellent choice. Located between Parco della Resistenza and Parco Franco Agosto, this pub enjoys a central location on the popular Via Decio Raggi, which is lined with other bars and restaurants. The venue has a modern ambiance, with a bar adorned with hundreds of distinctive beer mats and walls displaying an extensive collection of both local and imported beers. Patrons can choose from a diverse selection of ales, lagers, spirits, and a fine array of cocktails and mixers, creating a vibrant atmosphere for an enjoyable evening.

15. Parco Regionale della Vena del Gesso Romagnola

For outdoor enthusiasts and explorers, the Parco Regionale della Vena del Gesso Romagnola is an ideal destination. Located approximately an hour’s drive west of Forli, this park encompasses 6,000 hectares, providing a landscape of mountain ranges, pastures, and vast areas of vegetation. The park’s forests are stunningly beautiful, home to a diverse range of endemic trees interconnected by hiking trails. One notable feature is the Monte Tondo plaster quarry, which is visible from great distances and features a meandering path descending the mountainside. Points of interest within the park include Monte Mauro, Carne Park, and the Park Monticino Geological Museum.