The City of Ferrara is a refined journey in the elegance of its architecture and of its works of art, a great expression of the medieval and renaissance period. From the center of Piazza della Repubblica, one may to walk in the direction of the Castello Estense built in 1385, surrounded by the water of the moats, a clear symbol of the power of this family who left permanent signs everywhere in the city. The City Hall, connected to the castle through a covered path, is dated back to about 1200 and has been the ducal residence of the Este Family.
The palace overlooks piazza hosting the Cathedral of San Giorgio built from the twelfth century with an outstanding façade begun in Romanesque style whose upper part has been later built in a Gothic style; the result is a superb synthesis of styles.
In the Cathedral Museum it is possible to admire finds and sculptures mostly coming from the Cathedral, such as the ancient panels of the Organo, and the thirteenth century panels from the Porta dei Mesi of the Cathedral together with tapestries and paintings which complete the museum itinerary.
Beside, we can visit the Loggia dei Mercanti, with all the ancient workshops which have been here since the Middle Ages. Several are the palaces which enrich the urban street, such as for example Palazzo Schifanoia, wanted by Alberto V d?Este in 1385 and later enlarged, which now holds the Museum of Ancient Art, in which you can admire collections of different kinds.
Palazzo Costabili, which legend ascribes to Ludovico il Moro, is now the centre of the National Archeological Museum. It exhibits, among other things, finds from the Etruscan city of Spina. Its façade rusticated with white and pink marble, Palazzo dei Diamanti, commissioned by Sigismondo d?Este, holds the National Art Gallery.
Even the surrounding countryside has different places of great interest. Francolino is one of the first centres you come across, with the wonderful Delizia of the Estensi. It is a landing place for those who sail the river Po.
It is important to remember the Delizia of Belriguardo in Voghiera, the first residence build beyond the city walls, called the Versailles of the Estensi. Moving from the beautiful town of Codigoro, it is impossible not to visit the Abbey of Pomposa, one of the most influential monastic complex of all Europe between the 11th and 12th century, the most important spirituality centre of the world during the Middle Ages. Today it is possible to visit the Church of Santa Maria, the Bell Tower, the Aula Capitolare and the Dormitory, now home to the Museo Pomposiano; the Refectory and the Palazzo della Ragione.
After that you may want to visit Valleys of Comacchio, among the most famous Lagoon complexes existing in Italy and Europe. They extend in the province of Ferrara and partially into the province of Ravenna, between Comacchio and the river Reno, and they reach the sea through the Magnavacca, Logonovo, Bellocchio and Gobbino canals.
The most characteristic place of the city is the architectural complex of Trepponti, dating back to 1634, composed of 5 stairs and 5 arches, from the top of which there is a wonderful sight on the Valleys of Comacchio.
The beauty of the landscape suggests a trip inland, for a walk along the Argine Agosta, in order to admire one of the most particular landscapes in Italy: water expanses and meadows as far as the eye can see, all shrouded in solitary silence. A boat tour can complete the visit in the seductive landscape of the Valleys.
Comacchio is furthermore remembered as the most important centre of eel farming of Italy.
Continuing, you will meet the Gran Bosco della Mesola, a natural reserve which can be only partially visited, on foot or by bicycle. It offers wonderful sights with interdependent sylvan and marsh environments in perfect equilibrium. Crossed the wood, we meet the town of Mesola, an ancient Estensi feud and their summer residence. Of its past remain the ruins of a 16th century castle.
