Piacenza

Piacenza, situated on the fertile Padan plain, is the first major city of the region of Emilia-Romagna on the Francigena Way. It is an important stopover for art and a significant communication hub since Roman times. The heart of the city is the spectacular Piazza Cavalli, named after the two bronze equestrian statues of Dukes Farnese that preside it, where the Gothic Palazzo Gotico stands out as a magnificent example of medieval civil architecture. For pilgrims, visiting the Duomo (Cathedral), an imposing construction marking the transition from Romanesque to Gothic styles, is a highlight. The Basilica of San Antonino, with its octagonal tower, is another landmark on the route. Piacenza is also a city of great gastronomic tradition, famous for its prosciutto with protected designation of origin. With all necessary services, it is an ideal stopover for cultural and culinary rest, an immersion in Emilia-Romagna's rich history before facing the Apennine crossing.