Baluardo di Santa Maria - Image 1
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Baluardo di Santa Maria

4.6
·68 reviews·Ferrara, Italy

Discover fragments of Ferrara's ancient fortress and city walls, a historic site that comes alive with medieval re-enactments.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Aug - Early Sep

Medieval events in full swing

CrowdHigh
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Baluardo di Santa Maria - Image 1

Baluardo di Santa Maria

Best Time

Late Aug - Early Sep

Medieval events in full swing

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover fragments of Ferrara's ancient fortress and city walls, a historic site that comes alive with medieval re-enactments.

4.6
(68 reviews)

"A beautiful historical place, fragments of the city walls where ancient events are organized."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fragments of the Ancient Fortress

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

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

Green Parakeet Spectacle

Surrounding trees

Experience the delightful surprise of a cloud of green parakeets gracing the branches, a unique natural spectacle.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Medieval Ferrara

The Baluardo di Santa Maria is central to the 'Palio di Ferrara' and 'Monk's Carousel' events. Plan your visit around these late August/early September festivities for the most immersive experience. Book accommodations and event tickets well in advance, as Ferrara becomes a popular destination during this time. Reddit

Explore Beyond the Walls

While the Baluardo di Santa Maria offers a glimpse into Ferrara's past, the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Consider dedicating a full day to explore Castello Estense, Palazzo dei Diamanti, and the charming Via delle Volte. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Late Aug - Early Sep
Why
Medieval events in full swing
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

oggi valutiamo l'oratorio : San Benedetto di Ferrara #perte #fy
@mariano_urso
9.5K likes • 110.3K views

🚗 Park Near the Center

Convenient parking is available on the edge of the city center, making access to the Baluardo easy. Reddit

📅 Book for Medieval Events

Secure your tickets for the Monk's Carousel and Medieval Ferrara events well in advance. Reddit

A day trip to Ferrara is definitely worth it - charming, historic, and full of character ✨🇮🇹 - Some places to visit: 📍Castello Estense + Torre dei Leoni 📍Rotonda Foschini 📍Piazza Trento e Trieste 📍Cattedrale di San Giorgio 📍Palazzo dei Diamanti 📍Via delle Volte 📍Palazzo Schifanoia 🍝 Al Brindisi (the oldest tavern in the world - try the dish w/ zucca) #Ferrara #italyvibes #erasmuslife #daytrip
@isabelazelias
6.8K likes • 69.2K views
#ferrara #italy #fyp #perte #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #castello #vacanze
@bndspicy
5.4K likes • 49.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk

The grounds are lovely for a stroll, especially outside of major event times. Reddit

📸 Capture the Parakeets

Keep an eye out for the charming green parakeets that often visit the area. Reddit

⚓️ ti porto con me nel mio Posto preferito al mondo ⛴️ ⛴️ C’hanno fatto film, video musicali, campagne pubblicitarie Doveeeeeeee? 👉🏻 SEGUIMI che te lo mostro Un Pub pizzeria all’interno di un motopeschereccio d’alto mare tedesco ormeggiato nella Darsena di Ferrara. Ma bando alle divagazioni amici… ⛴️ Benvenuti a bordo del Sebastian Pub Scrivimi nei commenti se hai delle curiosità 👀 dai che ti legg...
@sebastianpub
3.8K likes • 180.3K views

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. Reddit

📅 Book for Medieval Events

Secure your tickets for the Monk's Carousel and Medieval Ferrara events well in advance. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Enjoy a Peaceful Walk

The grounds are lovely for a stroll, especially outside of major event times. Reddit

📸 Capture the Parakeets

Keep an eye out for the charming green parakeets that often visit the area. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(68 reviews)

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

Historical fragments
Medieval event backdrop
Natural surprises (parakeets)

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during events

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. Reddit If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride into the historic center. TikTok

Yes, parking is available on the edge of the center, which is convenient for visiting the Baluardo and exploring the historic parts of Ferrara. Reddit

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. Reddit

Ferrara is well-connected by train to major Italian cities like Bologna and Venice. Many visitors also arrive by car, with parking available. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed during re-enactments, but be mindful of performers and other attendees. Some areas might have restrictions for professional shoots. Reddit

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. Reddit

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photography. Daytime is good for seeing details, and evenings can be atmospheric. Reddit

The re-enactments themselves offer dynamic photo opportunities, capturing the costumes, horses, and historical atmosphere. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Ferrara will find the Baluardo di Santa Maria offers a safe and open space for children to explore the historical remnants. The surrounding parkland is ideal for a picnic or a run-around. Reddit The city's historical re-enactments, like the Monk's Carousel, can be particularly engaging for children, bringing history to life with costumes and performances. Reddit

Beyond the Baluardo, the Castello Estense is a hit with kids, offering a chance to explore a real castle, complete with dungeons. TikTok 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. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Baluardo di Santa Maria itself is a free attraction, offering historical insights and pleasant walking paths. Reddit Many of Ferrara's historical sites, like exploring the exterior of the Castello Estense or wandering through charming streets like Via delle Volte, can be enjoyed without significant cost. TikTok

Look for affordable dining options in local trattorias or enotecas, perhaps trying the traditional dish with zucca mentioned by some visitors. TikTok Traveling during the shoulder seasons, outside of major festival periods, can also lead to more budget-friendly accommodation options. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing Medieval Ferrara

Ferrara truly comes alive during its historical re-enactments, with the Palio di Ferrara and the Monk's Carousel being the most prominent. These events, typically held in late August and early September, transform the city into a medieval spectacle. Visitors can witness jousting tournaments, parades with historical costumes, and various traditional activities. The Baluardo di Santa Maria, as a remnant of the old fortifications, serves as a fitting backdrop for these celebrations. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

Ferrara's Historical Architecture

Ferrara is celebrated as a City of the Renaissance, boasting a remarkably well-preserved historical center that earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The Castello Estense, a moated fortress, stands as the city's most iconic landmark, offering insights into the power and lives of the Este family who ruled Ferrara for centuries. TikTok+1

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. TikTok The Duomo di San Giorgio and Piazza Trento e Trieste are also central to the city's historical and architectural appeal. TikTok

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. Reddit

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