Modena - capital of Emilia

The Modenese cuisine, alongside the Bolognese one, represents the excellence of Emilian food.

Tortellini and Parmigiano Reggiano have been mentioned since 1300 in the famous tales of Boccaccio's Decameron. Home to the Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, the IGP Cotechino, Zampone di Modena, and wines, the most well-known being Lambrusco di Modena and Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro (MO). The salami tradition is well-developed in these territories.

The city boasts a millenary history, rich in culture and traditions. Originally an Etruscan settlement, it later became Gallic before turning into a Roman colony named “Mutina,” likely indicating a hill or rise. Between the 5th and 7th centuries, it was abandoned due to frequent flooding from the Secchia and Panaro rivers, which surround it, and frequent pillaging. It began to repopulate following the construction of the bishopric and city walls in 891, commissioned by Bishop Leodolino. The magnificent cathedral was erected while the bishopric was in power until 1135, after which municipal autonomy began. However, the municipality was soon conquered by the Guelph Bologna and later by the Estensi of Ferrara.

In 1598, Duke Cesare of Este moved the capital of his state to Modena, which managed to survive invasions by Italians and foreigners until the Unification of Italy, surrendering only to Napoleon's troops. Between the 19th and 20th centuries, the province became a stronghold for socialist and then communist movements. 
 

The Modena Cathedral, the Civic Tower, and the Piazza Grande are monuments inscribed in 1991 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.