Tour Emilia Romagna, Emilia Romagna : a region with many faces

This region is well known for its famous beaches : the Adriatic Coast is a long stripe of golden sand with, on its shoulders, thousand of hotels,bars,discos,shops,and more. The main resort is Rimini. Not far from Rimini is Ravenna, declared World Heritage Site by Unesco. For centuries it was part of the Eastern Roman Empire, so that the influence of Constantinople is felt far more than that of Rome. The results can be seen in the church of San Vitale, the Baptistry of the Orthodox, and the tomb of Galla Placidia, the Basilica of St. Apollinaire (its mosaics are the last great Byzantine work ).
Very closed to the Adriatic riviera, on the peak of Mount Titano, is situated the smallest republic of the world : the Republic of San Marino, large only 61 kmq. founded in 301 A.C. Thousands of years of tradition in an ancient medieval town. In San Marino the evocative traditions are based on authentic, documented history which saw the ancient standard raised, the sound of the clarions blaring and the cross-bows taking aim, never attacking, but ever defending ancient freedoms. In the countryside is located the castle-topped rock of San Leo , an ecclesiastical stronghold as early the 8th century.

ITINERARY

1 Day:
Arrival in Rimini area. The Rimini riviera boasts 40 km of mostly sandy beaches, in places 200 m wide and in summer season it is "invaded" by beach lovers. Another main attraction is its frenetic nightlife: there are mote than 100 discos and clubs. But it remains a ritual family destination for many Italians and Europeans. Rimini was the birthplace of Federico Fellini, one of the most exuberant italian film director.
In the afternoon half day guided visit of the old city centre of Rimini: the roman Arch of Augustus and the Tiberius' Bridge, the Tempio Malatestiano, the two main squares Piazza Tre Martiri and Piazza Cavour. 2 Day:
Full day excursion in the countryside. In the morning visit of the Republic of San Marino, the oldest republic in the world, and guided visit through the narrow streets and the old medieval walls.You can take pictures of the republic's soldiers, buy local coinage and send mail and postcards with the beautiful San Marino stamps.
In the afternoon, continue the excursion to San Leo and visit of the old castle and the church.3 Day:
Full day excursion to Parma. Guided visit of the city including Piazza Garibaldi, the Doges Palace, the monument to Verdi. In the afternoon visit a Parma "prosciutto" factory and enjoy a sampling of the products.
In the afternoon guided visit of Bologna.It is one of the best-looking cities in the country. It is known as Red Bologna not only for its politics, but also because the red is the dominant colour of its elegant monuments, plus over 40 km of arcades and porticos. The are so many places to be visited: the Neptune Fountain, the Piazza Maggiore and Nettuno Squares, the church of St. Petronio, the "Due Torri", thw two slender and seemingly precarious leaning towers. Bologna is well known also for its food and the numerous trade fairs.4 Day:
Half day excursion to Ravenna. Guided visit of the city, once capital of the Western Roman Empire, and of the many early Christian monuments and mosaics. Afternoon at leisure in Rimini, for shopping, or for optional excursions.5 Day:
At disposal for optional excursions and departure.

OPTIONAL VISITS / EXCURSIONS

Ferrara
The town of Ferrara was the residence of the "Este" dukes, an eccentric dynasty that ranked as a major political forse throughout Renaissance times. The "Este" kept the main artists of the day in commissions and built a twon which was - and still is - one of the most elegant urban creations of the period.
Faenza
The town of Faenza give its name to the faience-ware it has been producing for the last six hundred years. The town is worth a visit for the vast "Museo delle Ceramiche". The massive collection includes early works painted in the characteristic blue and ochre, and later more colourful works. There is also a section to ceramics from other part of the world too, including ceramic art by Picasso, Matisse and Chagall.
The Galleria Ferrari
The Enzo Ferrari factory is located in Maranello, 17 km south of Modena. The Galleria Ferrari is an exhibition centre dedicated to the racing dynasty. It boasts the largest collection of Ferrari cars on show in the world, including those in which Michael Schumacker won the Formula One World Championship.
Gradara
This small, walled, hilltop village located not far from Rimini, boasts an impressive 14th-century castle. It's said to be the scene of a thirteenth-century scandal involving Francesca da Rimini, who committed adultery with Paolo da Malatesta, her husband's brother. The lovers were killed for their transgression. Francesca's unhappy spirit is said to wander the castle when the moon is full.

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