The Path of Flowers on the Walls of Ferrara
Ferrara and Its Hidden Treasures
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The walls of Ferrara, a place for meeting, relaxation and wellbeing, represent an authentic treasure chest of history. Throughout the centuries, they have undergone various transformations, from deterioration to recovery, up to the decisive restoration of the last century that initiated their full valorisation.
Bastions, towers and gates mark their rhythm, testify to the evolution of defence techniques and offer a unique historical and architectural experience. However, their charm goes beyond this: the greenery that surrounds them creates a veritable park, rich in biodiversity and habitat for numerous rare and protected species, adding an unparalleled cultural and naturalistic value.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS PLACE
Today, although no longer fulfilling the defensive functions of yesteryear, the walls maintain a fundamental role within the urban landscape of Ferrara. Over time, they have become a magnificent open-air ‘garden’ that unites the city rather than separating it. This transformation is highlighted by the large Urban Park dedicated to Giorgio Bassani (former hunting reserve of the Este family), located immediately north of Ferrara. This park not only confirms the new purpose of the walls as a space for recreation and relaxation, but also as the starting point of the ‘Destra del Po’ (Right of the Po) Cycle Route, a 125 km long cycle route that crosses the plain to the Adriatic, symbolising the integration of the walls into the city's daily life and travel routes.
THIS PLACE IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE
Constructed between 1493 and 1505 by illustrious architects such as Biagio Rossetti, Alessandro Biondo and Bartolomeo Tristano, these imposing fortifications mark a transition in the evolution of defensive techniques, moving from vertical to horizontal or grazing defence. Characterised by bastions, towers and gates, each with its own history and function, the walls reflect the various phases of Ferrara's history, from the first defensive actions ordered by Marquis Nicolò III d'Este in the 14th century to the restorations and transformations that took place over the following centuries.
Each architectural element, such as the Torrione di Barco, the Porta degli Angeli or the Baluardo della Montagna, tells a part of the city's history and bears witness to the engineering and military skill of the past. Even today, the walls represent a focal point in the city landscape, offering not only a historical testimony, but also a natural environment rich in biodiversity, with more than 240 species of plants and numerous animal species populating the surrounding park.
SPECIAL TIPS
Here is a truly intelligent and original suggestion for exploring the magnificent walls of Ferrara, suitable for both adults and children: the Ferrara Mura Aperte project. At the entrance to the majestic Porta Paola gate, now transformed into the Ferrara Walls Documentation Centre, you will find an interactive map full of QR-Codes. By scanning some of these QR codes, you can access a podcast dedicated to the walls, also available on Spotify.
But there's more! By scanning the first QR-Code on the left, you will start an exciting augmented reality experience guided directly from your smartphone. Just follow the app's directions and give the GPS permission to start your journey from Porta Paola, heading towards the impressive Baluardo dell'Amore. Using GPS, the app will guide you to key points along the way, where architect Aleotti will virtually appear to tell you the history and anecdotes of the ramparts and surrounding walls.
Thanks to augmented reality, you can also take part in quizzes and interact with the area in an innovative way.
