Forlì

The small town of Forlì was founded by the Romans in the 2nd century BC and lies at the crossroads of the Via Consolare and the road that went to Tuscany. The town lies at the eastern end of the Po Valley, along the famous 'Via Emilia' at the foot of the green hills of the Tuscan Romagna Appernines.

The city's historic centre consists of two main Roman roads, which can still be seen, but is divided into four main streets, Mazzini, Garibaldi, Diaz and della Repubblica, all of which converge on Piazza A. Saffi.

There are a number of buildings representing the different eras, such as the Romanesque Basilica di San Mercuriale with its impressive authentic 12th-century bell tower. The Town Hall, Palazzo Comunale, dates from the 14th century and has been rebuilt several times, and there are also the 15th century Palazzo del Podestà and Palazzo Albertini, which are certainly worth a visit. During the Ordelaffi reign, which lasted two centuries, Forlì was enriched with several palaces, which can be enjoyed on a stroll up, for example, Via P. Maroncelli or Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi. The Ravaldino Fortress, also known as the Rocca di Caterina Sforza, rises at the end of Corso Diaz and the whole complex is surrounded by a lovely park.

Try the 'Passatelli' at one of the many local restaurants. Noodles cooked in broth, a very traditional dish that has its origins in Forlì itself. There is much to see and admire in the city, so set aside a day to discover this friendly and very beautiful town.