Guida Turistica: Provincia di Piacenza

The Province of Piacenza is located in the Emilia-Romagna region, in northern Italy. It borders Lombardy (provinces of Lodi and Cremona) to the north, the Province of Parma to the east, Liguria (Province of Genoa) and Tuscany (Province of Massa-Carrara) to the south, and Piedmont (Province of Alessandria) to the west.

The inhabitants of Piacenza are called "piacentini" (masculine) and "piacentine" (feminine).

The Province of Piacenza comprises 46 municipalities, including the capital city Piacenza and other centers such as Fiorenzuola d'Arda, Castel San Giovanni, and Bobbio.

Among the unmissable attractions in the Province of Piacenza are:

• The historic center of Piacenza, with Piazza Cavalli, the Cathedral, and the Gothic Palace;
• Grazzano Visconti Castle, a medieval village rebuilt in Neo-Gothic style;
• The Visconti Fortress of Castell'Arquato, one of Italy's most beautiful villages;
• The Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Campagna;
• The Trebbia Regional Natural Park, ideal for excursions and outdoor activities;
• Val Tidone and Val d'Arda, famous for their hilly landscapes and food and wine products.

The best time to visit Piacenza and its province is during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October), when temperatures are mild and the landscapes are particularly charming. Summer can be hot, but it's ideal for excursions along the Trebbia river or for participating in food and wine events. Winter is less crowded, but some attractions might have reduced hours.

Piacenza cuisine is rich in traditional flavors, including:

• Pisarei e fasö: small gnocchi made of flour and breadcrumbs, served with a bean sauce;
• Coppa Piacentina DOP: a cured pork cold cut;
• Pancetta Piacentina DOP: rolled and cured pancetta;
• Tortelli alla Piacentina: pasta filled with ricotta, spinach, and Grana Padano cheese;
• Burtleina: a rustic cake made with corn flour and cheese;
• DOC Wines: Gutturnio, Ortrugo, and Malvasia dei Colli Piacentini.