The Cathedral of Fidenza In the heart of ancient Fidenza, the majestic Cathedral dedicated to the city’s Patron Saint, San Donnino, rises proudly. It is one of the masterpieces of Emilian Romanesque architecture; built in the 12th century, it tells a thousand years of history, faith, and art. Every stone speaks of devotion and encounters between saints, queens, and emperors.

The captivating façade is framed by two towers; at the centre, the grand portal with its stylophoric lions welcomes visitors into a story carved in stone.

The works of Benedetto Antelami and his school unfold along the façade with bas-reliefs and statues that narrate, in addition to scenes from the Old and New Testaments, the life of Donnino: his flight, martyrdom, and miracles in Fidenza. There is also the statue of Saint Simon, pointing toward Rome – an invitation to a spiritual and physical journey along the Via Francigena.

Inside, the play of light across the three naves highlights Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements.

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This fortress was built in the 14th century by the Meli Lupi princes, whose descendants still reside there. Over time, it has been enriched with various additions; in 1833, the large English-style park that still surrounds it was created.

Inside, the frescoed rooms are enchanting: the grotesques by Cesare Baglione, the room depicting mythological episodes related to Hercules, the Baroque Stucco Room, and the long Gallery with family portraits and fine furnishings.

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