Volto del Cavallo
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Volto del Cavallo

4.6
·58 reviews·Ferrara, Italy

Admire striking 19th-century bronze replicas of Renaissance statues at the Volto del Cavallo, a gateway to a charming courtyard.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light

CrowdLow
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Volto del Cavallo

Volto del Cavallo

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Admire striking 19th-century bronze replicas of Renaissance statues at the Volto del Cavallo, a gateway to a charming courtyard.

4.6
(58 reviews)

"Astonishing Gate!!! Beautiful statues. Fabulous architecture at one of the entrances to the square."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Replicas

The bronze replicas are stunning. Get close to appreciate the detail of Nicolò III and Borso.

🤫 Peek Inside!

Don't just admire the archway from the street; step through for a delightful inner courtyard view.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nicolò III on Horseback

Nicolò III on Horseback

Corso Matteotti

Admire the powerful 19th-century bronze replica of Nicolò III in a commanding equestrian pose.

Borso on the Throne

Borso on the Throne

Corso Matteotti

See the replica of Borso d'Este seated regally on his throne, a testament to Renaissance power.

Picturesque Inner Courtyard

Picturesque Inner Courtyard

Through the archway

Step through the archway to discover a charming and unexpected inner courtyard.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Volto del Cavallo is an outdoor sculpture, best appreciated in good weather. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for stunning light on the bronze replicas.

What to Expect

This is a quick stop to admire impressive 19th-century bronze replicas of Renaissance originals. Don't miss peeking into the inner courtyard for a picturesque view.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Low
When
Morning
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cosa vedere a Ferrara in un giorno @unapennainvaligia #ferrara #emiliaromagna #inemiliaromagna #visitromagna
@inemiliaromagna
8.3K likes • 177.4K views

📸 Capture the Replicas

The bronze replicas are stunning. Get close to appreciate the detail of Nicolò III and Borso. Reddit

🤫 Peek Inside!

Don't just admire the archway from the street; step through for a delightful inner courtyard view. Reddit

📍 Location is Key

Find it on Corso Matteotti, directly opposite the Ferrara Cathedral. Reddit

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Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Replicas

The bronze replicas are stunning. Get close to appreciate the detail of Nicolò III and Borso. Reddit

🤫 Peek Inside!

Don't just admire the archway from the street; step through for a delightful inner courtyard view. Reddit

📍 Location is Key

Find it on Corso Matteotti, directly opposite the Ferrara Cathedral. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(58 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the 'astonishing' bronze replicas of Nicolò III and Borso d'Este, appreciating their detailed artistry. The unexpected charm of the inner courtyard is also a frequent highlight, offering a picturesque surprise. While the statues are replicas, their historical significance and aesthetic appeal make them a worthwhile stop.

"Astonishing Gate!!!"

FOTIOS FOTAKIDIS

"👍"

Nicolò Verde

"“Volto del Cavallo” is located on Corso Matiri della Libertà, opposite the Cattedrale. At the entrance there are two bronze figures “Nicolò III on horseback” and “Borso on the throne”. They are replicas from the 19th century. The Renaissance originals were destroyed by the French in 1796. Another archway opens into a picturesque inner courtyard, be sure to take a look inside."

Gernot Berndt

What People Like

Impressive bronze replicas
Picturesque inner courtyard
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Replicas, not originals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Volto del Cavallo is conveniently located on Corso Matteotti, directly opposite the Ferrara Cathedral. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the historic center of Ferrara. Reddit

Yes, the area around the Ferrara Cathedral is well-served by local buses, making it easy to reach Volto del Cavallo via public transport. Check local bus routes for the most convenient stops. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Volto del Cavallo is an outdoor public monument. You can view the bronze replicas and the inner courtyard freely without any admission fee. Reddit

As an outdoor sculpture, Volto del Cavallo is accessible at any time. However, the best viewing experience is during daylight hours. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For the best lighting and fewer crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create dramatic shadows and highlight the bronze. Reddit

Try framing the statues with the Ferrara Cathedral in the background for a classic shot. Also, don't forget to capture the charm of the inner courtyard. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Volto del Cavallo offers a quick and engaging stop for families. Kids can marvel at the large bronze horse and the seated figure, sparking imagination about knights and dukes. The inner courtyard provides a small, safe space for them to explore briefly. It's a good spot for a quick photo opportunity before moving on to other Ferrara attractions. TikTok

📸 Photographers

For photographers, the Volto del Cavallo presents a unique opportunity. The interplay of light and shadow on the bronze statues, especially during sunrise or sunset, can create dramatic and compelling images. Consider using a wider lens to capture the statues with the backdrop of the Cathedral, or a telephoto lens to focus on the intricate details of the bronze work. The inner courtyard also offers charming architectural shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of the Volto del Cavallo

The Volto del Cavallo (Horse's Head) in Ferrara is a significant landmark, though the current impressive bronze figures are 19th-century replicas. The original Renaissance sculptures, depicting Nicolò III on horseback and Borso d'Este on his throne, were tragically destroyed by the French in 1796 during their invasion. These originals were masterpieces of their time, reflecting the power and prestige of the Este family who ruled Ferrara for centuries. The replicas stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of this period and the city's rich history. Reddit

Visitors are often struck by the detail and artistry of the bronze replicas. The equestrian statue of Nicolò III, a condottiero (military leader), conveys a sense of strength and authority. Nearby, Borso d'Este is depicted in regal splendor, symbolizing his ducal power. While not the originals, these 19th-century works capture the spirit and grandeur of the Renaissance era that shaped Ferrara. Reddit

Beyond the statues themselves, the Volto del Cavallo serves as an archway leading into a surprisingly tranquil and picturesque inner courtyard. This hidden gem offers a moment of quiet reflection and a different perspective on the architecture. It’s a small detail that adds an extra layer of discovery for those who take the time to explore. Reddit

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