
Piazza Cavalli Piacenza
Piacenza's grand central square, famed for its majestic equestrian statues and Gothic architecture, offering a vibrant glimpse into history and local ...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for photos

Piazza Cavalli Piacenza
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Piacenza's grand central square, famed for its majestic equestrian statues and Gothic architecture, offering a vibrant glimpse into history and local life.
"The heart of Piacenza, a stunning square with impressive statues and historic buildings."

📸 Capture the Grandeur
The equestrian statues and Gothic architecture make for stunning photos, especially during golden hour.
☕ Coffee Break Charm
Enjoy a coffee at Caffè dei Mercanti for a classic Piacenza experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Statues of Alessandro and Ranuccio Farnese
Center of Piazza Cavalli
Majestic bronze equestrian statues dominating the square, a symbol of Piacenza's rich history.

Palazzo Gotico
North side of Piazza Cavalli
A striking example of Gothic civil architecture, this palace is a historical landmark and event venue.

Palazzo del Podestà
East side of Piazza Cavalli
Historic building offering a glimpse into medieval civic life, often hosting cultural events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The equestrian statues and Gothic architecture make for stunning photos, especially during golden hour.
☕ Coffee Break Charm
Enjoy a coffee at Caffè dei Mercanti for a classic Piacenza experience.
🚶♀️ Stroll Through History
Wander through the historic center, exploring streets like Via XX Settembre.
🎶 Event Hotspot
Piazza Cavalli hosts concerts and festivals; check schedules for lively evenings.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The equestrian statues and Gothic architecture make for stunning photos, especially during golden hour.
☕ Coffee Break Charm
Enjoy a coffee at Caffè dei Mercanti for a classic Piacenza experience.
🚶♀️ Stroll Through History
Wander through the historic center, exploring streets like Via XX Settembre.
🎶 Event Hotspot
Piazza Cavalli hosts concerts and festivals; check schedules for lively evenings.
🛍️ Local Delights Nearby
Visit local shops for salumi and cheeses just off the piazza.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Piazza Cavalli is widely praised as the beautiful and historic heart of Piacenza, with its impressive equestrian statues and Gothic architecture being major highlights. Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere, especially during events, and find it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and enjoying local cafes. Some find it can get crowded during peak times or events.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piazza Cavalli is centrally located in Piacenza's historic center, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city. If arriving by car, be aware of ZTL (limited traffic zones) and look for nearby parking garages. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops close to the piazza.
Yes, Piazza Cavalli is a pleasant walk from the Piacenza train station, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. The route is straightforward and allows you to get a feel for the city as you approach the main square.
Several parking garages are available near Piazza Cavalli, such as the Garibaldi parking lot. Some areas around the piazza are within the ZTL, so it's best to park in designated areas and walk.
Yes, Piacenza has a bus network that serves the city center. Several bus lines stop within a short walking distance of Piazza Cavalli, making it a convenient option if you're coming from further out.
Piazza Cavalli is the main square and a central landmark in Piacenza, so it's very easy to find. Most navigation apps will direct you straight to it, and locals are happy to point you in the right direction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Piazza Cavalli is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. There are no admission fees.
Piazza Cavalli is always open as it's a public space. However, surrounding buildings like the Palazzo Gotico may have specific visiting hours if you wish to enter them.
Piazza Cavalli frequently hosts events, including concerts, festivals, and public gatherings. It's advisable to check local Piacenza event listings for any upcoming activities during your visit.
The magnificent bronze equestrian statues of Alessandro and Ranuccio Farnese are located in the open piazza and are free to view.
Yes, Piazza Cavalli is accessible at night and is often beautifully illuminated, offering a different, romantic ambiance.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the center with the equestrian statues, the facade of the Palazzo Gotico, and from the surrounding porticoes. Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most dramatic shots.
Drone usage in public squares like Piazza Cavalli may be subject to local regulations and require permits. It's best to check with local authorities before flying a drone.
For photography, aim for the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft light beautifully highlights the architecture and statues. Weekday mornings also offer fewer people for unobstructed shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed in Piazza Cavalli. However, commercial photography or filming might require permissions. Always be mindful of others and avoid obstructing public access.
The iconic shots include the two large bronze equestrian statues, the imposing Palazzo Gotico, and the overall grandeur of the piazza itself. Capturing the atmosphere with people enjoying the space also makes for great photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several dining options right on or very near Piazza Cavalli. Ristorante Piazza Cavalli offers traditional Piacenza cuisine. For a coffee break, Caffè dei Mercanti is a popular choice.
When in Piacenza, try local specialties like 'anolini in brodo' (small filled pasta in broth) and various cured meats (salumi) and cheeses. Osteria Carducci is recommended for good food.
Yes, many bars and cafes around Piazza Cavalli offer aperitivo, especially in the late afternoon and early evening. It's a great way to experience the local social scene.
Absolutely. You can find bakeries, cafes, and small shops selling snacks and local products like salumi and cheeses in the streets surrounding the piazza.
Ristorante Piazza Cavalli aims to celebrate Piacenza's culinary tradition with creative touches, offering both authentic local flavors and refined meat and fish dishes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider an 'escape room' experience that starts in Piazza Cavalli, which can be a fun and interactive way for older children and teens to explore the city's history and solve puzzles. The general atmosphere of the piazza is welcoming, and it's a safe place for families to spend time together.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Consider a leisurely stroll through the historic center, perhaps followed by a delightful dinner at one of the restaurants near the piazza. The atmosphere is ideal for intimate conversations and enjoying the Italian lifestyle.
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
Don't miss the chance to sample Piacenza's renowned cured meats (salumi) and cheeses. Local delis offer a fantastic selection, perfect for creating a picnic or bringing a taste of Emilia-Romagna home. For a sit-down meal, Ristorante Piazza Cavalli and other nearby trattorias serve up authentic regional dishes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Piacenza: Piazza Cavalli
The architectural ensemble surrounding Piazza Cavalli is equally impressive. The Palazzo Gotico, a prime example of Gothic civil architecture, stands proudly on one side, its imposing structure a testament to medieval engineering and design. Opposite it, the Palazzo del Podestà adds to the historical ambiance, often serving as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions. Wandering through this space, you can feel the centuries of history that have unfolded here, from public gatherings to significant historical moments.
Beyond its historical significance, Piazza Cavalli remains a lively hub for modern Piacenza. It's a popular spot for locals to gather, enjoy a coffee at one of the surrounding cafes, or simply relax and people-watch. The piazza also frequently hosts concerts, festivals, and public demonstrations, making it a dynamic and ever-changing focal point of city life.
Exploring Piacenza's Historic Center
Don't miss the Duomo di Piacenza (Piacenza Cathedral) and Piazza Duomo, a short walk from Piazza Cavalli, showcasing beautiful Romanesque architecture. The Basilica di San Francesco d'Assisi is another significant religious site, dating back to the 13th century. Exploring these sites provides a deeper understanding of Piacenza's rich artistic and religious heritage.
For those interested in local flavors, the streets around Piazza Cavalli are dotted with excellent food shops and trattorias. You can find artisanal salumi, cheeses, and other regional specialties, perfect for a picnic or to take home as souvenirs. An escape room experience, starting from Piazza Cavalli, also offers a unique way to discover the city's secrets.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit