Emilia Romagna is a fantastic region for all, from its historical and cultural monuments up to the entertaining beaches of the famous Romagnola Coast.
You don’t believe it? Let me explain why!
In Emilia Romagna you can admire small Medieval and Renaissance treasures which are spread throughout the entire region, not to mention its beautiful coasts which are amongst the world’s most well-known in Europe for night life. But it doesn’t end here. In this splendid region you can explore centuries old – forests, national parks with crystal clear lakes, and you can also appreciate unique historical traditions, religious tours and the most ancient University in the world.
Emilia or Romagna?
Emilia (Piacenza, Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna e Ferrara) and Romagna (Ravenna, Forlì-Cesena, Rimini) have different architectural styles, dialects and, most of all, cultural and culinary traditions.
As we have already said, you can never get bored in Emila Romagna. You can find places and sights that are capable of satisfying everyone, from the youngest to the oldest.
Bologna
Let’s start from Bologna: it is known as the “Dotta” (The Learned) because the first University in the world was founded here during medieval times (the prestigious Alma Mater where I have studied and my career as an Italian language teacher was born). It is also called the “Grassa” (The Chubby) because of the good food, and the “Rossa” (The Red), for the typical color of the bricks of its towers and palaces.
It was also once called the “Turrita” (The Towered City) because it had hundreds of towers. Now, there are 20 towers left plus two called “Asinella and Garisenda.” Together with the University, they have become the symbols of the city.
If you think you do not have enough knowledge of art, you will find all you need at the National Art Gallery and at the Mambo (Modern Art Museum in Bologna) where you can admire great works of art.
If you are thinking of spending the evening in Bologna, remember that this city never sleeps. After a lavish supper at one of the many typical traditional restaurants that fill the Bologna streets, you only have to choose how to spend the evening: Bologna will be able to satisfy your entertainment, whether you decide to go to an elegant bar in the old part of town, or to the young University zone in Via Zamboni, or even to the noisy street of Pratello.
Ravenna
If you’re only passing through Emilia Romagna, you must absolutely visit the magnificent city of Ravenna.
It has a glorious past and a present to be rediscovered.
We are talking about a city that has been the capital of an Empire for three times and has hosted Unesco eight times. Obviously, if you spend a day in Ravenna you must visit the The Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo where you can admire magnificent mosaics or the building of San Francesco. Last but not least, the Dantesco Museum pertaining the tomb of the Poet.
The Adriatic coast
Lastly, the most favourite destination for young people: The Coast.
First and foremost, Rimini. The city where the first Italian seaside resort was born. Together with Riccione, they are the heart of the Romagnolo seaside tourism.
Here, you can relax on the beach and have all types of comforts at your disposal. In this way, you can appreciate the strong point of the Romagnola Coast: its night life.
With cocktails overlooking the sea, bars on the beach and exclusive discotheques, fun is guaranteed; a true Romagnolo cannot miss an appointment for a cocktail at the number 71 beach club in Riccione where you can sip excellent drinks and organize your evening with friends at the most famous discotheque, Villa della Rose.
A Cultural Overview: What makes Emilia Romagna so unique?
Emilia Romagna is a region in northern Italy that is known for its unique culture. The region is named after the Emilian people, who are the predominant population in the area. The key cultural elements of Emilia Romagna include its po River, balsamic vinegar, and northerly location.
The po River forms the border between Emilia Romagna and Lombardy and provides a natural boundary for the two regions. The river has been an important part of the region’s culture and history. Balsamic vinegar was first made in the area around Modena, which is located on the banks of the po River. Today, balsamic vinegar is produced throughout Emilia Romagna, as well as in other parts of Italy.
The northerly location of Emilia Romagna has also had a significant impact on its culture.
What can you eat in Emilia Romagna?
Well, once again, you have a lot to choose from; typical products of this region are well-known throughout the world. Just think of the exquisite Parmigiano Reggiano or the delicious Parma Ham.
But, if you decide to go on a tour to taste these typical specialties and you are going through Bologna, you must certainly try some of the following dishes: the Tortellini, typically filled pasta which can be in soup or simply with cream, or Tagliatelle with meat sauce which are rigorously made by hand by the “zdora” (the lady of the house).
Still in Bologna, we suggest you taste another specialty: The Lasagna, which must unavoidably have at least 7 layers.
If you are thinking of a trip to the seaside, we suggest you try The Piadina, which is thin flat bread which you can fill with whatever you prefer. An honorable mention must be made to raw ham, squacquerone cheese and arugula or ham and mozzarella cheese. These are the most popular.
But don’t worry! The specialties and delicious foods of Emilia Romagna are numerous and we are certain that you will enjoy discovering them by yourself!
This is all! If you are thinking of organizing a trip to Emilia Romagna, just follow these simple and short indications and you will be 100% satisfied!
This article was written by Donatella Marcovigi, native Italian Language Professor and translator. For more information visit: www.i-italianizeyou.com