Villanova sull'Arda is a small municipality located near the river Po, in the Province of Piacenza, in the area more towards the provinces of Parma and Cremona.
Its countryside was home to Giuseppe Verdi, who retired to Sant'Agata to dedicate himself to rural life. In the last years of his career, he wrote some of his operas at Villa Sant'Agata, such as the requiem dedicated to Manzoni.
In the Piacenza area this area is known for the presence of cherry trees, which blossom in spring brightening up the landscape with the delicacy of their white flowers.
To celebrate the arrival of the new season and the beauty of this man-made nature, the Pro Loco organises Festa dei Ciliegi in Fiore (Cherry Blossom Festival). On weekends from March 28-29 2026 orchard tours, bicycle rides, food stands, music and dancing.
Details available at visitpiacenza.it
