Along the Spallanzani Path: a Tour between Nature and Culture

The itinerary kicks off from the cultural heart of Reggio Emilia, where history, science and art intertwine in a perfect way to start discovering the city.

Must-sees

• The private collection by the scientist Lazzaro Spallanzani in the Palazzo dei Musei, with instruments, manuscripts and curiosities related to the illustrious Reggio Emilia scientist's biological and naturalistic studies
• The statues and monuments of the Parco del Popolo, an Italian garden with centuries-old trees perfect for a break between nature and art
• The San Pietro Cloisters, a true Renaissance and Mannerist architectural jewel

To know

• The Parco del Popolo preserves rare trees and monuments dedicated to historical figures of the city, creating a mix of natural history and cultural memory
• The Cloisters were built and modified over time to accommodate different religious communities, reflecting different architectural styles

Useful info

• Facilitated access for visitors with reduced mobility
• Presence of green areas and benches in the park for stops during the visit

From the historic center of Reggio Emilia, we head to one of the city's most vibrant gathering places, where military history and green spaces meet to create cultural and recreational experiences.

Must-see

• Polveriera: built in 1869 on the old Piazza d'Armi, restored, today it represents a center of social inclusion and aggregation, a symbol of urban transformation
• Civic Hall: since 2020, it houses an impressive wall drawing of over 60 square meters by artist Hu-Be - Emanuele Sferruzza Moszkowicz, a contemporary element that animates the space with colors and shapes
• Campo di Marte: an urban park much loved by families, ideal for walks and outdoor activities among ancient trees and green spaces

Need to know

Campo di Marte has historically been linked to military exercises, but today it is one of the most popular parks in Reggio Emilia

Useful info

• Facilitated access for visitors with reduced mobility
• Green areas equipped with benches

From the urban area you enter a natural environment of great ecological value in Reggio Emilia, perfect for a break between nature, history and birdwatching.

Must-sees

• SIC Rodano-Gattalupa: site of community importance that protects river and forest ecosystems
• Parco del Mauriziano: a loop trail, variant 610 A, that leads to Ludovico Ariosto's summer residence, set in a green and peaceful environment
• Rhone River Trail: totally bicycle and pedestrian friendly, ideal for walking and biking activities

To know

• The storks that frequent the area come from the nearby Gavasseto colony, creating a small natural "show" that is easily observed from the huts
• The ecological rebalancing area serves to connect the city with protected natural spaces, promoting biodiversity and sustainable routes

Useful info

Sheds and staging areas equipped for wildlife observation

Continuing along the river routes of Reggio Emilia, one enters a rural and historic landscape where water has shaped territory, economy and daily life over the centuries.

Must-sees

• Rodano barrage lock: a concrete example of how water management has shaped the agricultural and urban life of Reggio Emilia
• Left bank of the Rodano stream: a bicycle and pedestrian path that allows visitors to enjoy striking views of the waterway and the surrounding countryside
• Secchia Canal: artificial waterway built by the Romans to bring water from the river into the city, an engineering work of great historical importance

To know

The Secchia Canal, until the 19th century, was used to transport goods in small boats, allowing merchants to enter directly inside the city walls. Today the canal is mainly used to irrigate fields, but it retains the appearance and charm of an ancient Roman hydraulic system with ancient hydraulic artifacts still visible.

Useful info

• Fully bicycle and pedestrian accessible route
• Green areas along the creek for stops and observation

The route now enters a scenic stretch of the Reggio Emilia countryside, where history, nature and viticulture are intertwined, offering spectacular views of the surrounding rows of vines and rural landscapes.

Must-sees

• Ponte del Gazo: historical landmark, theater of past battles and natural observatory over the surroundings
• Rural vistas: elevated path that provides glimpses of the surrounding countryside, including fields, woods and vineyards
• Local vineyards: rows of grapes for the production of Lambrusco and recovery of the native white grape Spergola.
• The landscapes of Fellegara and neighboring hamlets, perfect for a photo break or a moment of relaxation between nature and rural culture

To know

Spergola is a rare, recently rediscovered native grape variety that enriches the wine production of the province of Reggio Emilia

Useful info

• Pedestrian and bicycle route among fields and vineyards
• Possibility of stops and observation of wildlife and rows of grapes

The route now follows the Tresinaro Creek, combining nature, history, and local culture in a stretch ideal for leisurely walks and cultural discoveries.

Must-sees

• Tresinaro bike/pedestrian path: easy and safe route that follows the stream to the village of Cà de Caroli and the bridge at Via del Cristo
• Historic center of Scandiano: recommended detour to visit the Boiardo Fortress, an imposing building with frescoed halls and local historical memory, and the birthplace of Lazzaro Spallanzani, the place from which the famous naturalist departed for his research in the Reggio Emilia Apennines

To know

Ventoso, now a quiet village, was considered the official starting point of the trail along the Tresinaro in 1988

Useful info

• Accessible bicycle and pedestrian trail
• Rest areas and viewpoints along the stream
• Wear comfortable shoes and, if you want to explore Scandiano, devote at least an hour to visiting the Rocca and Spallanzani's sites