Discovering Ferrara: A Complete Guide to Its Historical, Architectural and Artistic Monuments

(Photo by: Sylvie Deneux)

If you are planning your trip and staying at A Casa di Maica, here is a detailed guide to the monuments and landmarks you absolutely cannot miss in Ferrara.

1. Castello Estense – The Symbol of Ferrara

📍 Largo Castello, 1 – 44121 FerraraA majestic fortress surrounded by a moat, residence of the Este dukes with frescoed halls and underground prisons. The Castello Estense (Este Castle) is the most iconic monument of Ferrara. Built in 1385 as a fortress, it later became the residence of the Este dukes. Surrounded by a moat with drawbridges, it combines military architecture with Renaissance elegance. Inside, you will find richly decorated halls, frescoed ceilings, and the famous dungeons.

2. Cattedrale di San Giorgio – Ferrara Cathedral

📍 Piazza della Cattedrale – 44121 FerraraLocated in Piazza Trento e Trieste, the Cathedral of San Giorgio is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. located in the main square. Its façade features stunning sculptures, while the interior reveals Baroque influences. Don’t miss the Loggia dei Merciai, once home to medieval shops, now filled with lively cafés and boutiques.

3. Palazzo dei Diamanti – Renaissance Architecture and Art

📍 Corso Ercole I d’Este, 21 – 44121 FerraraPerhaps the most famous and iconic palace in Ferrara, the Palazzo dei Diamanti owes its name to the 8,500 diamond-shaped marble blocks that cover its façade. Today it houses the Pinacoteca Nazionale and the prestigious Modern Art Gallery, with works by Dosso Dossi, Cosmè Tura, and contemporary exhibitions.

4. Palazzo Schifanoia – The Renaissance Leisure Palace

📍 Via Scandiana, 23 – 44121 Ferrara“Schifanoia” literally means “to escape from boredom”. This palace was the Este family’s retreat for leisure and celebrations. The highlight is the Salone dei Mesi, with one of the most important Renaissance fresco cycles in Europe, depicting zodiacal allegories, mythology, and courtly life.

5. Via delle Volte – Medieval Ferrara

📍 Via delle Volte – 44121 FerraraFor a step back in time, stroll along Via delle Volte, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Italy. Its cobblestones, arches, and ancient warehouses transport visitors to the 13th and 14th centuries, when Ferrara was a bustling trading hub. Just perfect for a historic walk.

6. Palazzo Municipale & Piazza Trento e Trieste

📍 Piazza Trento e Trieste – 44121 FerraraThe heart of Ferrara beats in Piazza Trento e Trieste, surrounded by elegant buildings and lively markets. The Palazzo Municipale was once the Este family’s first residence before they moved to the Castello Estense.

7. Jewish Ghetto and Synagogues

📍 Via Mazzini, 95 – 44121 Ferrara (entrance to the Jewish Museum and Synagogues)

Ferrara is also renowned for its Jewish heritage. The Jewish community has lived here since the Middle Ages, flourishing under Este protection. In the former Jewish Ghetto, you can visit synagogues and the Jewish Museum of Ferrara, which tells the story of centuries of coexistence and culture.

8. The Walls of Ferrara – A UNESCO Wonder

📍 The walls surround the entire historic center (main access from Porta degli Angeli – Corso Ercole I d’Este, 44121 Ferrara).Stretching for 9 kilometers, the Renaissance walls of Ferrara are among the best-preserved in Europe. Today, they form a green ring around the city, perfect for walking or cycling. They are a unique example of Renaissance military architecture transformed into a leisure space.

9. Monastery of Sant’Antonio in Polesine

📍 Via del Gambone, 15 – 44121 FerraraA hidden gem, this monastery is still home to Benedictine nuns. Its chapels are decorated with extraordinary frescoes from the Giotto school, creating an intimate spiritual atmosphere far from the tourist crowds.

10. Teatro Comunale di Ferrara

📍 Corso Martiri della Libertà, 5 – 44121 FerraraFor music and culture lovers, the Teatro Comunale is an elegant 18th-century theater that hosts opera, concerts, and contemporary performances.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Best way to explore Ferrara: on foot or by bicycle – Ferrara is known as the “City of Bicycles.”

• Ideal length of stay: at least 2–3 days to enjoy both the main monuments and the atmosphere. Ferrara is structured for Slow Tourism.

• Local experiences: taste Ferrara’s traditional cuisine, such as cappellacci di zucca, pasticcio ferrarese (sweet or savory), salama da sugo, tenerina, and more.

Why Stay at A Casa di Maica?

After exploring these treasures, you can return to the welcoming atmosphere of A Casa di Maica. Our B&B offers personalized hospitality, comfort, elegant and uniquely furnished rooms, and tailor-made experiences to make your stay in this area unforgettable. Just perfect for discovering the beauty of Ferrara and Emilia-Romagna.

Tel: +39 338 7477305  acasadimaica@gmail.com