Piacenza, Provincial capital in Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Piacenza is a provincial capital in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, located on the banks of the Po River where it meets the Trebbia. The medieval streets and squares partly follow the ancient Roman city plan with its central forum and main axial crossing.
The Roman colony of Placentia was founded in 218 BC as a fortified base against the Gauls and Carthaginians during the Second Punic War. In the Middle Ages, the city became a free commune and developed into an important trading center with political ties to the Papacy and Lombard noble families.
The name derives from Latin Placentia, meaning agreeable or pleasant. Piazza Cavalli with its 17th-century equestrian statues now serves as a meeting point for residents and a venue for markets and events.
The city center is easy to explore on foot, as most landmarks lie within the historic city walls. Bicycle paths along the Po offer a quiet way to discover the surroundings and river banks.
The city was the birthplace of several Roman emperors, including Galba in 3 BC. Today, archaeological remains beneath modern buildings testify to this ancient importance and offer insights into Roman urban life.
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