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Modena
The city of Modena is located to the south side of the Po valley in Emilia-Romagna, Italy. The rivers Secchia and Panaro, both affluents of the Po River cradle the city, as symbolized by the landmark fountain of two rivers at city's center, by Giuseppe Graziosi.
This ancient town was once the seat of an archbishop though mainly known today as "the capital of engines," since most famous Italian car makers like De Tomaso, Ferrari, Pagani and Maserati hold shop here. Famous Modenesi include the operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti.
Visitors are invited to enter the famed Cathedral of Modena and the annexed campanile which is a known UNESCO World Heritage Site. Comissioned by the Countess Matilda of Tuscany in 1099 and its crypt ready for the city's patron, Saint Geminianus, the Duomo of Modena was finished in 1184. The Gothic campanile (1224-1319) called Torre della Ghirlandina from the bronze garland surrounding the weathercock.
The Baroque Ducal Palace was created in the 17th Century by Francesco I d'Este as the seat of royalty from the 17-19th century. Today, the Palace houses the Accademia Militare di Modena, where the military ceremonies are held. Gilded panels line the Golden Hall or Salottino d'Oro used by Duke Francis III as his main cabinet of work.
As part of the UNESCO Heritage site, the Communal Palace is currently the Town Hall of Modena and characterized by a watchtower. The Preda Ringadora, a rectangular marble stone next to the portico of the palace, used as oratorial platform, also bring to mind the middle ages.
Known for its balsalmic vinegar production, its cusine is delicate and flavored, enjoying for example a light cheese with a drizzle of the rich balsalmic.
