Baluardo di Santa Maria
Discover fragments of Ferrara's ancient fortress and city walls, a historic site that comes alive with medieval re-enactments.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Medieval events in full swing
Baluardo di Santa Maria
Best Time
Medieval events in full swing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover fragments of Ferrara's ancient fortress and city walls, a historic site that comes alive with medieval re-enactments.
"A beautiful historical place, fragments of the city walls where ancient events are organized."
🚗 Park Near the Center
Convenient parking is available on the edge of the city center, making access to the Baluardo easy.
📅 Book for Medieval Events
Secure your tickets for the Monk's Carousel and Medieval Ferrara events well in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fragments of the Ancient Fortress
Baluardo di Santa Maria
Discover remnants of the Pope's ancient fortress, offering a tangible connection to Ferrara's historical significance.
Medieval Ferrara Re-enactments
Baluardo di Santa Maria grounds
Witness vibrant historical re-enactments, especially the 'Monk's Carousel,' bringing medieval life back to the city.
Green Parakeet Spectacle
Surrounding trees
Experience the delightful surprise of a cloud of green parakeets gracing the branches, a unique natural spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Medieval Ferrara
Explore Beyond the Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Near the Center
Convenient parking is available on the edge of the city center, making access to the Baluardo easy.
📅 Book for Medieval Events
Secure your tickets for the Monk's Carousel and Medieval Ferrara events well in advance.
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk
The grounds are lovely for a stroll, especially outside of major event times.
📸 Capture the Parakeets
Keep an eye out for the charming green parakeets that often visit the area.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Near the Center
Convenient parking is available on the edge of the city center, making access to the Baluardo easy.
📅 Book for Medieval Events
Secure your tickets for the Monk's Carousel and Medieval Ferrara events well in advance.
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk
The grounds are lovely for a stroll, especially outside of major event times.
📸 Capture the Parakeets
Keep an eye out for the charming green parakeets that often visit the area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Baluardo di Santa Maria for its historical significance and its role in vibrant medieval re-enactments. The presence of nature, like the parakeets, adds an unexpected charm. While the area is good for walks and events, planning around specific festivals is key for the full experience.
"Everything was excellent, from the shows to the food."
Maurizio Bozzoli
"An unusual presence... A cloud of green parakeets decorated the branches... nature always surprises us."
Barbara Zucchini
"Park on the edge of the center."
Lucio Benini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Baluardo di Santa Maria is located on the edge of Ferrara's city center, making it accessible by foot from most central accommodations. Parking is available nearby.
If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride into the historic center.Yes, parking is available on the edge of the center, which is convenient for visiting the Baluardo and exploring the historic parts of Ferrara.
While it's walkable from the center, local buses can also take you close to the historic walls of Ferrara. Check local bus routes for the most direct options.
Yes, it's a prominent historical feature on the outskirts of the old town, often mentioned in guides to Ferrara's historical sites.
Ferrara is well-connected by train to major Italian cities like Bologna and Venice. Many visitors also arrive by car, with parking available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, the Baluardo di Santa Maria itself, as part of the city walls, is accessible for walks and exploration without a specific ticket. However, for special events like the Monk's Carousel, separate tickets are required and should be booked in advance.
As it's part of the historical city walls, there are no strict opening hours for general access. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Event times will vary.
Access to walk along the accessible parts of the walls is typically free. Fees apply only for specific organized events or historical re-enactments held within or near the area.
It is highly recommended to book tickets for events like the Monk's Carousel as soon as they become available, typically several months in advance, due to high demand.
Yes, the Baluardo is part of the historical context of the Palio di Ferrara and is particularly significant during the associated re-enactments. Visiting during this period offers a unique experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historical fragments of the fortress and the panoramic views of the surrounding area. The trees are also a great spot for photographing the parakeets.
Yes, photography is generally allowed during re-enactments, but be mindful of performers and other attendees. Some areas might have restrictions for professional shoots.
A versatile lens is recommended for capturing both the historical structures and any wildlife like the parakeets. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the city walls.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photography. Daytime is good for seeing details, and evenings can be atmospheric.
The re-enactments themselves offer dynamic photo opportunities, capturing the costumes, horses, and historical atmosphere.
🎫 🏛️ Historical Context
The Baluardo di Santa Maria represents fragments of the ancient Pope's fortress and parts of the city's historical walls, offering a tangible link to Ferrara's past.
The fortress served as a defensive structure and a symbol of papal authority in Ferrara during historical periods when the Papacy held influence over the region.
The 'Monk's Carousel' is a historical re-enactment that takes place between the last week of August and the first of September, showcasing medieval traditions and jousting.
The Baluardo is part of the historical landscape where events like the Palio di Ferrara and its associated re-enactments are held, connecting modern celebrations to ancient fortifications.
Ferrara is renowned as the 'City of the Renaissance,' famous for its Este family rule, its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, and its historical events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the Baluardo, the Castello Estense is a hit with kids, offering a chance to explore a real castle, complete with dungeons. Consider visiting during a less crowded time to allow children to fully appreciate the sights without feeling overwhelmed. Many of Ferrara's attractions are walkable, making it a family-friendly city to navigate.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Look for affordable dining options in local trattorias or enotecas, perhaps trying the traditional dish with zucca mentioned by some visitors. Traveling during the shoulder seasons, outside of major festival periods, can also lead to more budget-friendly accommodation options.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Medieval Ferrara
To make the most of these events, it's crucial to plan ahead. Book accommodations and event tickets well in advance, as Ferrara becomes a popular destination during this period. Exploring the city's historic center, including the Castello Estense and Palazzo dei Diamanti, before or after the re-enactments will provide a comprehensive understanding of Ferrara's rich history.
Beyond the major events, Ferrara offers a charming atmosphere for leisurely exploration. Wander through the narrow streets, discover hidden courtyards, and enjoy the local cuisine. The presence of green parakeets in the city's trees adds a unique natural charm to the urban landscape, often surprising visitors.
Ferrara's Historical Architecture
Beyond the castle, the Palazzo dei Diamanti is a must-see, renowned for its distinctive diamond-pointed facade and its role as a major art gallery. Wandering through Via delle Volte, a medieval street with characteristic arches and covered passages, provides a glimpse into the city's ancient urban fabric. The Duomo di San Giorgio and Piazza Trento e Trieste are also central to the city's historical and architectural appeal.
The Baluardo di Santa Maria itself contributes to this rich architectural tapestry, representing fragments of the city's defensive walls and the historical Pope's fortress. These remnants offer a tangible connection to Ferrara's strategic past and its evolution through different historical periods.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit