Fontanellato is a small hidden gem in the province of Parma. This charming village offers visitors a dive into Emilian history and culture. The Rocca Sanvitale, with its moat and frescoes by Parmigianino, is the beating heart of Fontanellato and the main unmissable attraction.
Walking through the streets of the historic centre, you breathe in an atmosphere of times past. The colourful houses, the shops selling local products and the cafés invite you to a pleasant stop. For art and nature lovers, the Labirinto della Masone is a must-see. This bamboo maze, the largest in the world, is a unique work of art.
Fontanellato surprises in every season. In autumn, fog wraps the village in a mysterious aura. In summer, the streets come alive with events and festivals celebrating the rich local gastronomic tradition. A visit to Fontanellato is a journey through the time and flavours of Emilia-Romagna.
The Rocca Sanvitale of Fontanellato
The Rocca Sanvitale is the jewel of Fontanellato. This medieval fortress is striking for its beauty and its artistic treasures. Let's take a look at its history, the green maze and the frescoes by Parmigianino.
History of the Rocca
The Rocca was built in the 12th century as a defensive structure. In 1300 it passed to the Sanvitale Counts, who turned it into a noble residence.
For 600 years the Sanvitale family lived within these walls, enriching them with works of art. The fortress is surrounded by a water-filled moat that gives it a fairy-tale appearance.
In 1948 the Municipality of Fontanellato bought the Rocca. Since then it has been open to the public as a museum. Visitors can admire the original furnishings and discover the daily life of the nobility of times past.
The Green Maze
Near the Rocca is the Labirinto della Masone, a unique attraction. It's the largest bamboo maze in the world!
Franco Maria Ricci, publisher and art collector, created it in 2015. The path is 3 km long and covers 7 hectares. At its centre is a square hosting art exhibitions.
The maze is a magical place to lose and find yourself. It's also an example of sustainable green architecture. Children adore it and adults become children again!
The frescoes by Parmigianino
The most precious treasure of the Rocca is the Room of Diana and Actaeon. Here the young Parmigianino painted a splendid fresco in 1524.
The work tells the myth of Diana surprised while bathing by the hunter Actaeon. The colours are still vivid and the figures seem to move.
There is also a curious camera obscura. Thanks to a system of mirrors, you can spy on the village square without being seen. It was the "TV" of the nobles of the past!
The Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary
The Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary is one of the most important places of worship in Fontanellato. This sacred building attracts numerous worshippers and visitors thanks to its history, architecture and works of art.
Architecture of the Sanctuary
The Sanctuary stands at viale IV Novembre 19, just outside the historic centre of Fontanellato. Its construction dates back to the 16th century, when an oratory dedicated to Saint Joseph was transformed into a Dominican convent.
The building's style is a blend of Baroque and Neo-Baroque. The façade features elegant lines and decorations typical of these styles. Inside, the Sanctuary has a spacious and luminous main nave.
The ceiling is decorated with colourful frescoes telling sacred stories. The walls are enriched with stuccos and fine marbles that create an atmosphere of great beauty and solemnity.
Religious works of art
The Sanctuary preserves several works of great religious and artistic value. The most important element is the image of the Madonna of the Rosary, the object of great devotion.
This sacred image is linked to several miracles attributed to the Virgin. The most famous dates back to 1628, when the Madonna is said to have protected Fontanellato from the plague.
In the side chapels you can admire paintings and sculptures by local and national artists. These works depict biblical scenes and saints, further enriching the Sanctuary's artistic heritage.
Among the most notable works are:
- Ceiling frescoes
- Statues of Dominican saints
- Ex-voto offerings made by the faithful over the centuries
The Historic Centre
The heart of Fontanellato is a fascinating mix of history and everyday life. Walking through the cobbled streets, you breathe in the authentic atmosphere of this Parma village.
Piazza Matteotti
Piazza Matteotti is the focal point of social life in Fontanellato. This welcoming square is surrounded by historic buildings and outdoor cafés.
At its centre is a beautiful fountain, a meeting point for residents. On market days, the square comes alive with colourful stalls.
During summer, the square hosts events and concerts, offering pleasant evenings to tourists and locals alike.
The Church of San Francesco
The Church of San Francesco is an architectural gem of the historic centre. Dating back to the 15th century, this church is striking for its red brick façade.
Inside, frescoes and paintings tell sacred stories. The finely decorated main altar is a work of art to admire.
The bell tower, visible from afar, is a landmark for those exploring the village. The church is a place of worship that is still active and beloved by the community.
A glimpse of the historic shops
Walking through the streets of the centre, you discover workshops and shops that have stood the test of time. Colourful windows display local products and craftsmanship.
The historic delicatessen offers the famous cured meats of Parma. Nearby, a pastry shop delights visitors with traditional sweets like spongata.
An ancient bookshop invites browsing among rare volumes. These shops are not just commercial businesses, but custodians of local traditions and flavours.
Risorgimento Museum
The Risorgimento Museum in Fontanellato offers a fascinating look at the history of Italian unification. Visitors can immerse themselves in an educational and engaging experience throughout its rooms.
Permanent collection
The museum's permanent collection holds treasures from the Risorgimento era. You can admire military uniforms, period weapons and original documents that recount the deeds of the protagonists of Italian unification. Among the most valuable pieces are autograph letters by Giuseppe Garibaldi and portraits of Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour.
There are also relics linked to the royal House of Savoy and to crucial battles such as Solferino and San Martino. A section is dedicated to local volunteers who took part in military campaigns, with photos and personal items donated by their families.
Temporary exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions enrich the museum's offering with specific themes. These exhibitions change periodically, focusing on lesser-known aspects of the Risorgimento or on key figures from the Parma area.
Recently, an exhibition on the women of the Risorgimento was set up, highlighting their often forgotten role. Another exhibition explored the influence of music and art on the process of national unification.
Temporary exhibitions often include lectures and activities for schools, making the museum a lively, ever-evolving cultural centre.
Frequently asked questions
Here are the answers to the most common questions about Fontanellato and what to see in this charming destination.
What are the main tourist attractions in Fontanellato?
The unmissable attractions are the Rocca Sanvitale and the Labirinto della Masone. The Rocca is a medieval castle with frescoes by Parmigianino. The Maze is a unique work of art with an attached museum.
What can you do in Fontanellato in one day?
You can visit the historic village with the Rocca, the 19th-century washhouses and the ancient theatre. In the afternoon you can explore the Labirinto della Masone. A walk through the centre lets you admire palaces and characteristic views.
What are the best restaurants to eat at in Fontanellato?
There are several trattorias offering typical Parma cuisine. You can enjoy specialities such as tortelli, cappelletti and local cured meats. Many restaurants offer menus with fresh local products.
What are the most beautiful villages to visit near Fontanellato?
Nearby you'll find charming villages such as Soragna, Busseto and Colorno. They are worth a visit for their castles, historic squares and authentic atmosphere. They are easily reachable by car from Fontanellato.
What events or activities can you find today in Fontanellato or nearby?
Fontanellato often hosts fairs, markets and traditional festivals. The events calendar varies by season. You can find activities such as guided tours, concerts and art exhibitions.
What is the typical food to try during a visit to Fontanellato?
The dishes to try are tortelli di erbetta, culatello di Zibello and Parmigiano Reggiano. There are also specialities such as anolini in broth and torta fritta. Local products can also be bought in the shops in the centre.