Varsi
Welcome to the Province of Parma: a geographical and historical overview
The Province of Parma is located in Emilia-Romagna, a region in northern Italy, and is home to over 450,000 people. It is the fourth most populous province after those of Bologna, Modena, and Rimini. Although one of Italy's smaller provinces, its strategic location between the Lombardy, Tuscany, and Liguria regions makes it a place rich in natural, cultural, and gastronomic treasures.
Physical Geography
The Province of Parma is characterized by its division into three zones: plain, hills, and mountains. The flat northern part is crossed by the Po River, while the main rivers that run along the hills and mountains are the Taro River and the Parma, Ceno, Baganza, and Stirone streams. The province also hosts numerous peaks, including Monte Sillara, Monte Marmagna, Monte Orsaro, Monte Maggiorasca, Monte Brusà, Monte Penna, Monte Gottero, Monte Molinatico, and Monte Zuccone. Among the most beautiful lakes are Lago Santo parmense, Lago Verde, Lago Ballano, and Lago Pradaccio. There are also numerous parks and nature reserves.
Rivers
The Province of Parma is crossed by important rivers such as the Taro, Parma, Ceno, Baganza, and Stirone. These rivers and streams are a characteristic element of the region, offering the possibility of outdoor activities such as fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoying nature.
Peaks
The mountains of the Province of Parma offer breathtaking views and endless hiking opportunities. Among the highest peaks are Monte Sillara, Monte Marmagna, and Monte Orsaro, all over 1800 meters above sea level. Even the lower mountains, such as Monte Polo and Monte Cervellino, offer opportunities to practice sports such as trekking, mountain biking, and skiing.
Lakes
The lakes of the province are another natural attraction. Lago Santo parmense is the largest natural lake in the entire northern Apennines and is an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. Lago Verde, with its emerald waters, is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Apennines. Lago Ballano and Lago Pradaccio, located in the mountain area, offer crystal-clear water and breathtaking views.
Parks
The Province of Parma boasts numerous parks and nature reserves. The Regional Park of the Valleys of Cedra and Parma, also known as the "Park of a Hundred Lakes," is a veritable natural paradise. The Tosco-Emilian Apennine National Park offers spectacular landscapes and the opportunity to encounter many animal species. The Regional Fluvial Park of the Taro, the Regional Natural Park of the Woods of Carrega, and the Regional Fluvial Park of Stirone are other memorable places to visit. In addition, numerous reserves such as the Natural Reserve Guadine Pradaccio, the Faunal Oasis of Monte Fuso, and the Faunal Oasis of Monte Penna house unique animal and plant species.
History
The Province of Parma was established in 1859, in anticipation of the annexation of Emilia to the House of Savoy monarchy. Originally divided into the Parma, Borgo San Donnino, and Valditaro Circumscriptions, it later assumed its current form. The province has a millenary history, dating back to ancient times, as evidenced by the various archaeological finds discovered in the area.
In conclusion, the Province of Parma is a place of multiple natural and cultural beauties, between the plain, the hills, and the mountains, the rivers, the lakes, and the peaks. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, outdoor sports, visiting parks and nature reserves, tasting good local cuisine, and discovering the millenary history of the territory. Come visit us, you will be welcome!
