Happy TravellerWelcome to Faenza, a beautiful city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. With a population of over 59,000, Faenza is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned ceramics. Situated just 50 kilometers southeast of Bologna, this charming city is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the region.
Faenza is surrounded by an agricultural region that includes vineyards in the hills, cultivated land with traces of the ancient Roman land-division system, and fertile market gardens in the plains. The nearby green valleys of the rivers Samoggia and Lamone are home to a great number of 18th and 19th century stately homes, set in extensive grounds or preceded by long cypress-lined driveways.
According to mythology, the name of the first settlement, Faoentia, had Etruscan and Celtic roots, meaning in Latin Splendeo inter deos or I shine among the gods, in modern English. The very name, coming from the Romans who developed this center under the name of Faventia, has become synonymous with ceramics (majolica) in various languages, including French (faïence) and English (faience). Faenza is home to a historical manufacture of majolica-ware glazed earthenware pottery, known from the French name of the town as faience. The historic production of Faenza majolica is recognized worldwide as one of the highest moments of artistic creativity expressed through pottery.
Faenza’s architectural attractions are concentrated in the two contiguous main squares: Piazza del Popolo, lined by two double order porticoed wings, and Piazza della Libertà. Faenza Cathedral, located along the east side of Piazza della Libertà, is one of the highest expressions of Renaissance art in Romagna. Built to Giuliano da Maiano’s design, it was begun in 1474 and completed in 1511. The interior, a nave and two aisles with obvious references to Brunelleschi’s San Lorenzo in Florence, houses numerous works of Renaissance art, chiefly sculpture, among which are the tombs of St. Terence and St. Emilian (Tuscan school of the 15th century) and that of St. Savino, perhaps done in Florence by Benedetto da Maiano. Other interesting art collections are located in the Municipal Art Gallery, the Diocese Museum, the Bendandi Museum and the Manfredi Library.
Faenza is also home to the International Museum of Ceramics, which houses pieces from all over the world and from every epoch, from classical amphoras to the works of Chagall and Picasso, and there is a rich section dedicated to Faenza pottery in the golden age of the Renaissance. In September and October, international contemporary and classical ceramic art events, such as Argillà Italia and Buongiorno Ceramica, draw majolica amateurs, collectors and artists to Faenza from all over the world.
In addition to its rich history and stunning architecture, Faenza is also known for its delicious local cuisine. Typical regional dishes include home-made tagliatelle, cappelletti, lasagna and strozzapreti with the Romagna meat sauce. Some of the typical restaurants in Faenza are La Baita, Marianaza, Trattoria da Manueli where you can find traditional local dishes.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply enjoying delicious food, Faenza has something to offer every traveler. Come explore this hidden gem and discover why it should be on your travel bucket list!
