| Page Views: 2,581 Last Visit to Ferrara: October, 2003 | Origins Wrapped in Mystery: Ferrara by deecat - last update: Apr 28, 2005 |
Vibrant City, Cultural City,Historical City Even though Ferrara's origins are wrapped in mystery, they know that its name is first mentioned in a document dating to 753 A.D. Many years later, the Este family took advantage of a confused situation (fierce internal struggles between two powerful factions) and took control of the city.
The University was founded in 1391, and afterward, culture and art grew unceasingly until they reached the level of the most important European courts. All the best musicians of the time worked for the Dukes of Ferrara.
Ferrara is a prosperous market town on the banks of the Po River. At first glance it appears to be peaceful and provincial, there is a colorful history and many splendid treasures here. Ferrara has it all: an Universtiy, art galore, medieval walls, huge castle with moats, towers, and battlements in the town center, Romanesque-Gothic Duomo, Beautiful Palaces, huge Market Day, and numerous incredible shopping areas .
We fell in love with this city after being here for only a few hours. Ferrara is so alive! There is something to do, somewhere to go, something to eat, something to admire at all times AND it is almost car free!
Bicycles abound. The architecture is unique and varied. The people are friendly and accommodating.
The influence of the D'Este Family Dynasty is evident. The d'Este court attracted many writers such as Petrarch as well as painters such as Titian. Because of this powerful family's influence, Ferrara became one of Europe's finest Renaissance cities.5s* |
Expect the Unexpected While out walking in Ferrara one day, Allan and I came across a young man walking his pet, a pig.
The pig is wearing a warm coat and sniffing the ground. The pig was adorable, so I asked to take a photograph. The young man was quite pleased that we wished to do so. I was so used to seeing little "yappy" dogs that I was shocked to see the pig. |
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| Pros: | "Cultural, artistic, historic, vibrant, friendly" | | Cons: | "none" | | In A Nutshell: | "Medieval City With a Contemporary Flair!" |
deecat's Ferrara Travel Tips
 Comments for deecat about Ferrara | | | | |
KimberlyAnn Fri Oct 9, 2009 03:32 UTC
Wow! What a wonderful place to visit! Nice detailed tips. Loved your photo of the shutters & laundry, and I especially enjoyed your local customs tips. | hopang Fri Jul 24, 2009 11:20 UTC
Wonderful Ferrara page with great photos! The Palace of Diamonds and Estense Castle certainly look amazing. The Farrara Cathedral and Museum looks interesting to explore. ~ho & pang | jillzi Tue Jun 2, 2009 20:45 UTC
Beautiful architecture. This looks like a place that I would enjoy. Looks as though your B&B was quite romantic and rustic. Great job. | lynnehamman Tue May 26, 2009 14:13 UTC
Hi Dee- what interesting tips and photos here. Loved the cuisine tips,and the dogs & bikes. The architecture of Ferrara is beautiful. |
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