Cities on the Po

Embark on a journey through history along the mighty Po River, Italy's longest waterway which meanders across the country from the Cottian Alps to the sparkling Adriatic. Once playing a significant role in the development of Italy's economy and culture, its banks have witnessed the rise and fall of many different civilisations and therefore offers a real treasure chest of ancient relics. From the medieval charm of Ferrara with its moated fortress to the Renaissance splendour of Modena's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each city offers unique symbols of the past. Comacchio, known as 'Little Venice', enchants with its picturesque canals and Parma serves as an artistic and culinary immersion, while the archaeological gems of Bologna and the ancient ruins of Marzabotto further illustrate the rich tapestry of civilisations that once thrived along the Po. Visiting a range of famous museums and sites, we delve into the rich cultural heritage of the region and gain a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who lived here thousands of years ago. Learn about cities such as Spina that went undiscovered for thousands of years, uncover stories of power, including the Este family who dominated much of the region for centuries, and admire a range of fascinating items, with just one highlight being a well-preserved Roman shipwreck from the 1^st century BCE, complete with its cargo of amphorae and other goods.