Ferrara, City of the Renaissance, and its Po Delta in Italy

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Ferrara (only in Italian)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1995
Size of heritage: 46,712 ha
- Buffer zone: 117,649 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 11,619°
Latitude: 44,838°

Summary

Ferrara, which grew up around a ford over the River Po, became an intellectual and artistic centre that attracted the greatest minds of the Italian Renaissance in the 15th and 16th centuries. Here, Piero della Francesca, Jacopo Bellini and Andrea Mantegna decorated the palaces of the House of Este. The humanist concept of the 'ideal city' came to life here in the neighbourhoods built from 1492 onwards by Biagio Rossetti according to the new principles of perspective. The completion of this project marked the birth of modern town planning and influenced its subsequent development.

Location on Map

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Introduction

Ferrara, City of the Renaissance, and its Po Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the City and Province of Ferrara, in the Emilia-Romagna Region of Italy. This site is renowned for its rich history, architectural beauty, and its unique relationship with the Po Delta.

History

Ferrara, founded in the 6th century BC by the Etruscans, flourished during the Renaissance under the rule of the Este family. The city became a center of art, culture, and learning, attracting renowned artists, architects, and scholars. The Este family transformed Ferrara into a magnificent city, constructing impressive palaces, churches, and public buildings.

During the 15th and 16th centuries, Ferrara became a hub of intellectual and artistic activity. The court of the Este family attracted prominent figures such as Leon Battista Alberti, Piero della Francesca, and Andrea Mantegna. The city's architectural and artistic heritage reflects the influence of these great minds.

Architectural Marvels

Ferrara boasts numerous architectural marvels that showcase the city's Renaissance splendor. The Estense Castle, a magnificent fortress built in the 14th century, stands as a symbol of the Este family's power. Its impressive moat, drawbridges, and towers create a captivating sight.

The Cathedral of Ferrara, dedicated to Saint George, is another architectural gem. Its stunning façade, adorned with intricate sculptures and reliefs, is a testament to the city's artistic prowess. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful frescoes and the tomb of Borso d'Este, the city's most influential ruler.

The Palazzo dei Diamanti, with its distinctive diamond-shaped façade, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It houses the National Gallery of Art, which exhibits a remarkable collection of Italian Renaissance paintings.

The Po Delta

The Po Delta, located near Ferrara, is an integral part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. This vast wetland is formed by the Po River as it flows into the Adriatic Sea. The delta is a unique ecosystem, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

The Po Delta is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. It provides a habitat for numerous bird species, including herons, flamingos, and cormorants. Visitors can explore the delta's lagoons, marshes, and sandbars, either on foot or by boat, and witness the beauty of this natural wonder.

Current State

Ferrara, City of the Renaissance, and its Po Delta continue to captivate visitors from around the world. The city's historic center has been meticulously preserved, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Renaissance era.

The Po Delta, with its untouched natural beauty, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Efforts are being made to protect and conserve this fragile ecosystem, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Conclusion

Time Information

Checkout: 10:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Ascom Ferrara - Flying over and over - Ferrara vista dall'alto

Published: May 20, 2014
Length: 33:42 min
Rating: 4 of 5
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In volo con un drone sulla città di Ferrara e sull'hinterland ferrarese per riprendere dall'alto la vitalità, la storia e la poesia di questa cittadina emilian-romagnola. Il video, commissionat...

iloveferrara.it - Ferrara, Italy

Published: July 10, 2014
Length: 21:28 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Null & Full

An alternative way to spend holiday in Italy, living like a local. Join me to experience Italian everyday life: * taste Italy at its best - for a week * cook Italian pasta - with traditional...

Ferrara Buskers Festival 2013

Published: August 25, 2013
Length: 25:58 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Gramigna StregaMaligna

25 agosto - Ferrara Un assaggio del bellissimo Festival Internazionale degli artisti di strada.

MI HANNO DATO DEI SOLDI! Alessandro Di Battista 16-11-14 Ferrara

Published: November 17, 2014
Length: 14:05 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Gabriele Lenzi

Un fantastico Di Battista "C'ho messo il cuore. Dipende solo da noi. Il futuro di questa terra violentata dalla corruzione" Sovranità ITALIANA!

Famous Castello Estense Castle of Ferrara in Italy

Published: October 07, 2014
Length: 34:47 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: epSos.de

Free video about Castle Estense. This free video was created for you by http://epsos.de and can be used for free under the creative commons license with the attribution of epSos.de as the original...

La Provincia di Ferrara un territorio tra terra e acqua 2°T

Published: October 24, 2008
Length: 34:24 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: consfeartenatura

La Provincia di Ferrara un territorio tra terra e acqua - "Si ringrazia la Provincia e il Comune di Ferrara per la concessione di parte delle immagini dei presenti filmati che restano di loro...

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