Although the city of Piacenza is not so popular among tourists as other Italian cities, it still has very nice and typical Italian old city centre full of medieval and Renaissance buildings. The history of Piacenza dates back to the Roman times, when the city was founded in 218 BC.

It is situated on the bank of the River Po, in the region of Emilia-Romagna, and originally served as a fortified military camp protecting the plain of the river Po against the attacks of Hannibals and the Celts. The city center has preserved a great network of Roman roads.

Piacenza Cathedral by Idéfix

The original Roman settlement of Piacenza became an important military base thanks to its location in the Po valley and layout of the streets of the old city still correspond to the original plan from these Roman times.

The large Palazzo Farnese is one of the most important monuments of the city. Its construction started in 1558 and now houses Museo Civico. Museum offers a mix of sculptures and paintings. The most valuable exhibit is the Madonna and Child with John the Baptist by Sandro Botticelli.

There is also an armory, and the archaeological department, securing another gem Fegato di Piacenza (Liver of Piacenza), which is Etruscan bronze artifact representing a sheep’s liver and describing the names of Etruscan deities, once used by the priests during their prophecies.

Palazzo Farnese by Szeder László

Another important place is the city’s central square Piazza Cavalli with two bronze equestrian statues made by Francesco Mochi and his pupil Giambologna in 17th century. They represent a Duke of Parma – Alessandro Farnese and his son Ranuccio.

Behind the statues there is Palazzo del Comune, also called “Il Gotico.” Construction of this brick building in Lombard Gothic style started at the end of the 13th century.

Palazzo del Comune by Szeder László

The square is also a place of the unique and one of the most important examples of a Romanesque cathedrals in northern part of Italy – Piacenza Cathedral (1122 – 1233). Its interior boasts painted dome and medieval frescoes in the apse and transept.

Not far from the square you can find interesting Basilica di Sant’Antonino, which is known for its bas-reliefs from 12th century on the main door.

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