Renowned for its production of balsamic vinegar, Modena is a historic city in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. It is also famously the birthplace of Enzo Ferrari, the legendary motor racing driver, and is home to luxury car manufacturing sites for Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati.
Things to do in Modena
In the heart of Modena is the city’s majestic cathedral, which was consecrated in the 12th century and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered one of Europe’s most important Romanesque buildings and is topped by the 86-metre-tall Torre della Ghirlandina. Reliefs by Wiligelmus adorn the exterior while nativity scenes by Antonio Begarelli and Guido Mazzoni are housed within.
The legacy of Enzo Ferrari is celebrated at the Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari where you’ll find vintage vehicles and Formula One race cars. In addition to high-end Ferraris, Alfa Romeos and Maseratis, it features a multimedia exhibit detailing the life of the Ferrari founder. The Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari occupies the former home and workshop of Enzo Ferrari’s father, as well as a striking modern building designed by Future Systems.
One of Modena’s most magnificent architectural landmarks is the Ducal Palace, which was constructed between the 17th and 19th centuries and now houses the Military Academy of Modena. Marvel at its Baroque facade before strolling along the leafy trails of the historic Parco Giardino Ducale Estense. Overlooking the UNESCO-listed Piazza Grande is the Modena Town Hall, which features a 16th-century frieze by Niccolo dell’Abbate.
Getting around Modena
Modena is around 40 minutes’ drive from Bologna and 30 minutes from Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect to the Modena railway station and buses travel throughout the city.