Parco Ducale and the Palazzo Ducale
The gravel paths, wide lawns, and splashing fountains of the Parco Ducale, across the river from the Palazzo Pilotta, provide a tranquil retreat from Parma's more crowded areas. The main attraction here is the stately Palazzo Ducale, which was transformed into a posh residence by Ottavio Farnese in the 16th century (it had previously been a medieval castle). Inside are some original frescoes in the Sala dell'Amore by Agostino Carracci, and later 18th century work by Benigno Bossi in the extraordinary Sala degli Uccelli. The palace was partially destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt.
On the south side of the park the far humbler Palazzetto Eucherio Sanvitale (tel. 0521-230267; Jan-Feb and Nov-Dec 10am-1pm and 2-4pm, Mar-Apr and Oct 10am-1pm and 2-5pm, May-Sept 10am-1pm and 2-6pm) built around 1520, contains frescoes by Parmigianino depicting a Madonna and Child, recently restored, though most of the murals in other rooms are extremely faded.
The gravel paths, wide lawns, and splashing fountains of the Parco Ducale, across the river from the Palazzo Pilotta, provide a tranquil retreat from Parma's more crowded areas. The main attraction here is the stately Palazzo Ducale, which was transformed into a posh residence by Ottavio Farnese in the 16th century (it had previously been a medieval castle). Inside are some original frescoes in the Sala dell'Amore by Agostino Carracci, and later 18th century work by Benigno Bossi in the extraordinary Sala degli Uccelli. The palace was partially destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt.
On the south side of the park the far humbler Palazzetto Eucherio Sanvitale (tel. 0521-230267; Jan-Feb and Nov-Dec 10am-1pm and 2-4pm, Mar-Apr and Oct 10am-1pm and 2-5pm, May-Sept 10am-1pm and 2-6pm) built around 1520, contains frescoes by Parmigianino depicting a Madonna and Child, recently restored, though most of the murals in other rooms are extremely faded.
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