Reggio Emilia is a pretty town exactly halfway between Modena and Parma, known for its beautiful historic centre and for its leading role in Italy's history.
Not surprisingly, its nickname is Città del Tricolore (city of the Tricolour). In the 19th century, Reggio Emilia became the symbol of the wealth achieved by industrial and agricultural cooperatives that laid the foundations for the success of Parmigiano Reggiano and many other prominent companies. Holidays in Reggio Emilia are an excellent opportunity to discover the beauty of this lovely town, elegant and hospitable at the same time.
The historic centre of Reggio Emilia is hexagonal, built around the famous Via Emilia, and is easily accessible on foot or by public transport. Proceeding along Via Allegri, with the prestigious University of Modena and Reggio Emilia behind you, on the right you’ll find Piazza Vittoria and shortly after that Piazza Martiri del 7 Luglio, home to the Municipal Theatre dedicated to Romolo Valli, an actor and dubber born in Reggio Emilia.
The square is also overlooked by the headquarters of the Bank of Italy and the Church of San Francesco, built towards the end of the 1200s. With the Teatro Valli behind us, we can also admire Piazza Martiri del 7 Luglio, dedicated to a group of the city’s workers who were killed by police during trade union demonstrations in 1960.
We continue our holiday in Reggio Emilia along Via Crispi which, passing by Via Emilia Santo Stefano, leads directly to Piazza Prampolini, the heart of the city’s historic centre. Observing the square, you’ll be immediately struck by the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, beside which is the medieval Baptistery. Also on Piazza Prampolini is the Palazzo del Monte di Pietà with the Clock Tower, and in front of you the Town Hall, containing the famous Sala del Tricolore (Hall of the Tricolour). This is where, on 7 January 1797, the representatives of the free cities of Reggio, Modena, Bologna and Ferrara met to proclaim the Cispadane Republic, adopting as its flag the green, white and red flag which subsequently became the national symbol.
The Town Hall also houses the Museum of the Tricolour (with free admission), an interesting gallery that traces the main stages of the birth of the Italian flag. Through an alley called "broletto" you reach Piazza San Prospero, the city’s market square. Here we can admire the church of the same name. This typically Baroque structure features six red marble lions on its external façade which are much loved by the citizens. Returning to Piazza Prampolini you’ll come to Via Farini, one of the busiest streets of the city, with its many clubs, bars and restaurants serving local specialities.
Don’t waste time: check out our holiday packages to Reggio Emilia and get ready for a brand new, unforgettable adventure!
