Widespread itineraries among artistic and gastronomic excellence in the villages of the Unione Terre di Castelli
Vignola | Tour of the Village and Boncompagni Palace
Located where the Panaro Valley opens onto the plain, the silhouette of Vignola is dominated by the Rocca, a medieval fortress strategically built and later transformed in the 15th century by the Contrari family. They turned this “raw diamond” into a noble residence, decorating it with frescoes and precious details.
The Rocca later became the property of the Boncompagni family, who also owned the palace overlooking Piazza dei Contrari—now the cultural heart of the town. Inside, you’ll find the famous spiral staircase by Jacopo Barozzi (“Il Vignola”), the world’s first self-supporting helical staircase. A local guide will share the history of the staircase and fascinating stories about this renowned architect.
Our tour also includes a short walk through the lively historic center, blending past and present, with treats for the eyes and taste buds—including a stop to try the famous Torta Barozzi from Pasticceria Gollini.
Meeting point: Piazza dei Contrari, under the portico at the Rocca entrance.
Spilamberto | Tour of the Village and Exclusive Access to Rocca Rangoni
The village of Spilamberto has ancient roots, and its historical and cultural legacy is not only visible in its architecture but also alive in culinary traditions. Spilamberto is home to the Consorteria of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar—an icon of local identity.
A guide will lead you through the charming streets of the historic center, from the Torrione tower to the Rocca Rangoni, once the residence of the powerful Renaissance lords of the region.
The tour ends with exclusive access to a previously closed section of Rocca Rangoni, curated by the Odysseus Association.
Meeting point: Piazzale Rangoni, at the Rocca entrance.
Castelvetro | Tour of the Village and Museum of Golden Threads
The picturesque village of Castelvetro welcomes you with a delightful mix of artistic and cultural treasures worth exploring. Highlights include medieval palaces, the parish church with its neo-Gothic bell tower, ancient towers, and the iconic black-and-white checkerboard square known as Piazza della Dama.
This autumn tour invites you to discover the charm of Castelvetro, along with its array of DOP-certified local products.
The experience concludes with a visit to the permanent exhibition of Renaissance-era costumes, presented in a carefully reconstructed 16th-century atmosphere by the association La Dama Vivente.
Meeting point: Town Hall, under the portico at the Cialdini crossroads.
Entrance to museums, palaces, and fortresses requires a Green Pass. Entry is optional and by donation.
The series is presented in collaboration with Lovely Emilia Tour.
Guided Tours of the Villages of Vignola, Spilamberto, and Castelvetro
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Una bella riscoperta del nostro territorio – Abbiamo avuto il piacere di partecipare a tutte e le tre visite della rassegna “I gioielli del Borgo”. Elisa è davvero una guida molto in gamba, innamorata del nostro territorio e della sua storia. E’ bello vedere i luoghi a noi vicini, ma con occhi diversi. Assolutamente consigliato!
Un borgo delizioso – Ho partecipato con piacere alla visita guidata su Castelvetro presentata dalla guida Elisa in modo accurato, preciso e piacevole. Ho imparato tante notizie nuove su un luogo vicino, ma mai visitato prima e sono contenta di aver già prenotato la visita a Spilamberto e Vignola.
Che bella scoperta Vignola! – Elisa ci ha raccontato storie di personaggi illustri, nobili famiglie ed eccellenze gastronomiche della cittá di Vignola, oggi addobbata eccezionalmente con palloncini a forma di cuore per San Valentino. Tour molto coinvolgente e interessante, Elisa e’ una guida attenta, super informata e molto disponibile. Brava! Spero di poter presto partecipare alla visita guidata di Castelvetro.
Entusiasmante e Stupendo – Ho partecipato a tutti e tre gli appuntamenti della rassegna. Speriamo di poter avere presto altre proposte altrettanto entusiasmanti e stupende. Grazie!
Una gran bella visita! – Elisa ci ha fatto conoscere aspetti storici e curiosi della cittadina di Castelvetro che ho apprezzato moltissimo. Credo che la ricetta semplice di ripartire dal nostro territorio sia vincente e sicuramente piena di interesse! Grazie ancora e speriamo a MOLTO presto!