Ferrara
-The jewel of the Renaissance-
The soul of the city
Ferrara, located just a short distance from Bologna, is an authentic jewel of the Renaissance. It is a city rich in history and culture, capable of fascinating every traveler. Right here, under the rule of the powerful Este family and thanks to the genius of the architect Biagio Rossetti, the idea of the Renaissance “ideal city” took shape, today recognized by UNESCO and included in the World Heritage List.
Ferrara is also a true paradise for cyclists: an extensive network of bike paths allows you to explore every corner of the city in a relaxed and eco-friendly way.
Itinerary
Duration
2,5 ore
Meeting point
Porta Paola
Step 1
17th-Century Ferrara
Our half-day walk (about 2.5 hours) will begin at Porta Paola, an imposing 17th-century entrance that led to the city’s ancient commercial area, back when the Po River still flowed through the heart of Ferrara.
We will then continue along Via delle Volte, one of the most evocative medieval streets, where at every step you can breathe in the atmosphere of the past.
Step 2
Palazzo Paradiso
The next stop will be Palazzo del Paradiso, originally built as a private residence, later the seat of the university, and today a splendid public library. Inside, on the stairs, there is a plaque commemorating the stay of Nicolaus Copernicus.
Step 2
Ghetto ebraico
We will then cross the ancient Jewish Ghetto, bustling today with quaint shops and welcoming cafes: the ideal place for a pleasant break.
Step 3
The historic Este Court
Next, we will reach Piazza Trento e Trieste, dominated by ancient medieval shops and the majestic Cathedral of San Giorgio, whose Romanesque-Gothic facade enchants with its elegance and refinement.
Right next to it stands the ancient Ducal Palace of the Este family, now the seat of the Town Hall, while not far away is the evocative Arco del Cavallo, watched over by the bronze statues of Marquis Niccolò III and Duke Borso d’Este.
Step 4
The triumph of the Renaissance
The highlight of the tour will be the Castello Estense (Este Castle), an imposing 14th-century fortress, originally built as a defensive structure and transformed over time into a sumptuous residence for the Este family.
The walk will conclude along Corso Ercole I d’Este, an elegant Renaissance avenue leading to the famous Palazzo dei Diamanti, today home to the National Picture Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale).
More attractions
The ancient seat of the Benedictine monastery of San Romano, featuring precious works by local artists, including the organ doors painted by Cosmè Tura.
Museo della Cattedrale
An important place of pilgrimage linked to the 12th-century Eucharistic miracle.
Chiesa di Santa Maria in Vado
The 15th-century residence of a wealthy merchant (Casa Romei), featuring an enchanting internal courtyard and rooms decorated with frescoes.