Bagnara di Romagna is one of Italy’s most beautiful small villages, enclosed by perfectly preserved walls – a unique example of a medieval castrum in the Emilia-Romagna plain.
This itinerary takes you on a journey of discovery through its historic centre, taking in the Rocca Sforzesca, the museums and sites linked to local history, on a short yet evocative tour.
With its historical events, figures such as Caterina Sforza and intimate atmosphere, Bagnara proves to be an ideal destination for a leisurely visit, suitable for all seasons.
Tips
We recommend that history and music enthusiasts with more time on their hands continue their exploration of Lower Romagna with these itineraries dedicated to:
• Fortresses and towers in Bassa Romagna
• Pievi (Parish churches) in Bassa Romagna
• Bassa Romagna a land of music
Curiosities
To know
Every year, at the end of June, the Popoli Pop Festival brings musical and artistic groups from all over the world to Bagnara, and their presence is reflected not only in the traditional Romagna cuisine but also in a multi-ethnic range of food. This could be the perfect time to take this trip!
The route begins at the town gate leading into the village square, which is flanked by:
• the Town Hall
• the Locanda, which served as an inn and coaching inn until the end of the 17th century before becoming a noble residence in the 19th century
Curiosity
Today, the Locanda is a small, charming establishment offering accommodation and dining.
From the small square, as you walk along the road to the right of the town gate, you come to the Rocca Sforzesca, the symbol of the village.
Built in the 16th century on the ruins of the previous fortification, its reconstruction—which took several decades—was commissioned by the lords who ruled Bagnara: from the Bishop of Imola to the Manfredi family, from the Colleoni family to Girolamo Riario and Caterina Sforza. The last alterations date back to the late 15th century, with the keep and the elegant loggia.
Passing through the fortress gate – which today lacks a drawbridge but still retains its hooks and ramp – you enter the inner courtyard.
To see
• the keep, the top, casemates and underground chambers of which can be visited
• the tower to the east, reminiscent of the ancient Visconti construction, a true gem
• Caterina’s elegant loggia.
Don't miss
The Castle Museum, with an archaeological section featuring artefacts that tell the story of Bagnara from the Bronze Age through the Roman era to the Middle Ages, also documented by the Prati di Sant’Andrea site, the original settlement located a short walk from the village.
Tip
Taking the time to explore the interior will allow you to gain a thorough understanding of the village’s historical evolution.
Curiosity
The old gun ports and defensive systems are still visible.
Opposite the Rocca stands the Archpriest’s Church of Saints John the Baptist and Andrew the Apostle, dating from the 15th century, which houses works of great interest: the terracotta ‘Madonna del Pubblico Voto’, the baptismal font, a 15th-century tabernacle and an 18th-century organ.
To visit
The rectory houses two interesting small museums worth visiting at the weekend (we recommend booking in advance):
Just a few kilometres from the historic centre, the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Soccorso is well worth a visit; it was built between 1766 and 1770 to a design by the Imola-based architect Cosimo Morelli. During the ‘Rogazioni’ in May – the month dedicated to the Virgin Mary – the sacred image was carried in procession around the town and through the countryside.
