Via Roma, 42121 Reggio Emilia RE (September 2020)

Reggio Emilia

Reggio Emilia is an elegant and culturally rich city located in northern Italy, within the Emilia Romagna region. Positioned between Parma and Modena, it sits at the heart of one of Italy’s most fertile and productive areas, known for its culinary excellence, historic towns, and strong civic traditions. Though often less visible on tourist itineraries than some of its neighbors, Reggio Emilia offers a refined blend of history, innovation, and everyday Italian life that rewards those who take the time to explore it.

The city’s origins date back to Roman times, when it was founded as Regium Lepidi along the Via Aemilia, the ancient road that still shapes the geography of the region today. This Roman legacy is reflected in the city’s orderly layout and enduring sense of structure. Over the centuries, Reggio Emilia developed as an important cultural and political centre, influenced by medieval communes, noble families, and periods of artistic growth. Its historic core remains compact and inviting, ideal for walking and discovery.

At the heart of the city lies Piazza Prampolini, a graceful square surrounded by key civic and religious buildings. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta stands prominently here, alongside the Town Hall and historic palaces that reflect the city’s administrative heritage. Nearby, Piazza San Prospero offers a more intimate atmosphere, anchored by the Basilica of San Prospero with its distinctive façade adorned with statues. These squares serve as social gathering places where daily life unfolds, from markets and events to casual conversations at cafes.

Reggio Emilia is particularly renowned for its contributions to education and social thought. The city is the birthplace of the Reggio Emilia Approach, an influential philosophy of early childhood education recognized worldwide. This approach emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and respect for children’s ideas, reflecting broader values of community participation and innovation that characterize the city. Educational institutions and cultural centres continue to shape Reggio Emilia’s forward-looking identity.

Culture and the arts play an important role in the city’s life. Reggio Emilia has a strong theatrical and musical tradition, with venues such as the Teatro Municipale Romolo Valli hosting performances ranging from opera to contemporary productions. Museums and galleries showcase both historical collections and modern artistic expression, highlighting the city’s ability to honour tradition while embracing change.

The surrounding countryside is deeply intertwined with Reggio Emilia’s identity. The region is famous for its agricultural excellence, particularly as the home of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Nearby dairies and farms follow time-honoured methods that have been passed down for generations, producing foods that are recognized and protected around the world. This connection to the land is also reflected in local cuisine, which emphasizes quality ingredients and carefully prepared dishes.

Dining in Reggio Emilia is an expression of regional pride. Traditional recipes such as fresh egg pasta, stuffed tortelli, and slow-cooked meats are central to the local table. Meals are often enjoyed in a convivial atmosphere, where food serves as a way to bring people together. The city’s restaurants range from informal trattorias to refined establishments, all grounded in the same respect for culinary heritage.

Beyond its historic centre, Reggio Emilia is a city that looks confidently toward the future. Modern architecture, green spaces, and efficient infrastructure coexist with centuries-old buildings. The city’s commitment to sustainability, education, and quality of life is evident in its urban planning and community initiatives. This balance between past and present gives Reggio Emilia a distinctive and harmonious character.

Reggio Emilia may not overwhelm visitors with grand monuments, but it offers something equally valuable: a sense of authenticity and continuity. Its streets, squares, and institutions reflect a city shaped by civic responsibility, creativity, and respect for tradition. For travellers interested in understanding the rhythms of northern Italian life beyond the major tourist centers, Reggio Emilia provides a thoughtful and rewarding introduction to the cultural heart of Emilia Romagna.

Worth a Visit

Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Via Emilia San Pietro to Piazza di S. Prospero
Approximately 1.76 km – 1.09 miles

The walk starts in Via Emilia San Pietro – Basilica di San Pietro, Via Emilia San Pietro – Via Campo Samarotto – Viale Monte S. Michele – Via Dante Alighieri – Via Roma – Parrocchia di San Giacomo, Via Roma – Via Roma – Piazza “Del Popol Giost” – Via Roma – Porta Santa Croce, Via Roma – Via Roma – Via Emilia San Pietro – Via Mario Calderini – Via Emilia San Pietro – Piazza di S. Prospero – Basilica of San Prospero, Piazza di S. Prospero – Piazza di S. Prospero

Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Piazza Camillo Prampolini to Via Emilia Santo Stefano
Approximately 1.93 km – 1.11 miles

The walk starts in Piazza Camillo Prampolini – Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, Piazza Camillo Prampolini – Via Filippo Corridoni – Via Emilia San Pietro – Via Don Giuseppe Andreoli – Piazza Martiri del 7 Luglio – Piazza della Vittoria -Galleria Cavour – Via Naborre Campanini – Via Guido da Castello- Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi – Piazza Roversi – Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi – Piazza Vincenzo Gioberti – Via Emilia Santo Stefano