Modena
Modena: As well as the medieval charm of the beautiful Romanesque Cathedral and the Bell Tower known as "the Ghirlandina" which watches over and symbolises the city of Modena, this former capital of the Este Duchy is also the site of the 17th century Ducal Palace.
This imposing building is worthy of a European capital in terms of its size and the harmony of its structural form. It now houses the famous Military Academy. Although the elegance of the past is preserved, the city has also maintained its popular roots as manifested in the cult surrounding its wine and food - stuffed pig?s shin (zampone), tortellini and lambrusco everywhere. Modena has always been a city of cars. Ferrari, Maserati, De Tomaso and Lamborghini, synonyms of international prestige were born here. (Foto by Roby Ferrari)