Italy’s Perfect Parma

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

When you hear “Parma” what do you think of? Parma, Ohio? The famous cheese? Leaning tower of Parma? No, that’s Pisa. After my second trip to Italy’s Perfect Parma, I think of history and food.

As noted in Parma Prosciutto and so Much More, you would have to try hard to find bad food here. The same goes for the history. There are museums for both!

Food in Parma

Everything Else! (almost)

Ask the Locals

Always inquire at the hotel desk for recommendations on everything. Where are their favorite places to dine, the best museums, and never, ever skip asking about historical sites. The front desk clerk said, “Turn at the old building,” in answer to asking for Ducal Park’s location. It’s Italy, everything is old to an American. Stupefied, but going left out of the lobby, walking several blocks—what a surprise to find a really old building. 

Like the nearby Ducal Park, the Pilotta Palace dates from the 1500s and is a treasure trove of history.  The complex is massive so devote an entire day for a tour. Within the multiple buildings are: 

Farnese Theatre

Trying to get a photo to capture the scope of the construction of this theatre is a challenge. Check out the model first, then compare it to the photo with people entering through the archway. It’s humungous and held up with massive wood beams and stone pillars. Fourteen tiers were built to seat over 3,000 people. The website goes into great detail about the destruction during World War II and the reconstruction through the 1960s.

Note the times for a short film to be projected onto the stage showing examples of performances. It’s accompanied by music and enthralling. You’ll be challenged not to smile while watching. Performances are held, but only utilize the floor area, which is a great way to preserve the structure.

Palatine Library of Parma, Italy

Every avid reader and striving writer loves a good library. The Palatine is not to be missed. Created in 1761, the books are an incredible collection of theological, nomology*, philosophical, historic, and the liberal and mechanical arts.  

*Nomology – the science of the laws of the mind. That’s a great one to ponder as you stand before thousands of volumes. Your fingers want to dance along the spines and take in the words you can’t translate. Like the Library of Congress, you can arrange to access certain materials. Make sure to follow the correct procedures—they exist to ensure the volumes last for many years to come. 

When You Go to the Pilotta Palace Museum

Getting There: Just walk from your hotel until you see the old building!

Hours: Pilotta is closed on Mondays, open the rest of the week 10:30 – 7:00.

Tip: State museums, cultural sites and archaeological parks are open to visitors free of charge the first Sunday in each month. Free admission days do not require reservations.

Accessibility: The complex is accessible to those who cannot take the stairs. Note that a staff member must accompany you through the museums.

The website has a wonderful section entitled, Organize Your Visit.

Back to the Food of Italy’s Parma

A delight of small Italian towns are the locally owned stores, shops, and restaurants. Stop in one for fresh fruit, another for bread straight from the oven, and one more for aged parmigiano. Dinner is served!