Parma is a university city in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. Romanesque buildings, including the frescoed Parma Cathedral and the pink marble Baptistery, grace the city center. Classical concerts take place at the Teatro Regio, a 19th-century opera house.
If you are in Parma, your trip is not complete until you try a chunk of its eponymous cheese, Parmigiano-Reggiano. Known the world over, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese owes its quality to its source. The cows that produce the milk graze only on grass and hay in fields around the city. The cheese is made and aged from 18 months to over 30. Another food you must try in Parma is the local cured ham, Prosciutto di Parma. Parma’s Prosciutto is the gold standard for salumi. The hams are cured and aged in temperature and humidity controlled rooms for at least 10 months. The result is a salty, sweet, piece of meat that is sliced razor thin and can be eaten all by its self, or as a part of many regional dishes. It is delicious served simply over a plate of summer melon. As far as salumi goes though, Culatello is king. Parma is also known for its delicate stuffed pastas (tortelli) and outdoor markets. Be sure to take advantage of the fresh seasonal vegetables that Parma has to offer.