The Palatina library was founded by Philip Bourbon in 1761 and was opened to the public in 1769. It originally had 40,000 volumes, and was later enlarged through donations and acquisitions, including some from the Fondo Orientale De Rossi, the private library of the dukes of Bourbon in Parma, and the Ortalli print collection. Today this famous library houses more than 700,000 volumes, 3000 very early printed works, 6600 manuscripts, 50,000 prints, and miniature codexes from the 11th-12th Centuries. The library has three rooms: the Sala dei Maria Luigia, the Sala Dante (with frescoes by Scaramuzza inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy), and the Galleria del Petitot with period shelving.
The monastic complex of San Giovanni Evangelista is made up of a church, a monastery, and the historical San Giovanni pharmacy. The origins date back to the 10th Century, although the façade is Baroque in style. The bell-tower on the right-hand side was added in 1613. The church, with classical heritage, has an original Romanesque layout -you can see the pillars covered in gray stone with sculpted capitals by Antonio da Parma. Another piece of great value is the Wooden Choir by M. Zucchi, the Gianfranco brothers, and Pasquale Testa (1556). The monastic library is full of 15th Century rooms decorated with frescoes. It contains around 20,000 books, including codices painted in miniature from the 15th and 16th Centuries.
Hosting both plays, as well as movies, Teatro Pedrazzoli has carved a niche for itself in the art world. With an aim to promote art, the theater also offers dance and theater courses for young aspirants. Since its inception, this theater has been staging some of the finest plays performed by local and international artists. It also screens movies in its premises. Check website to know more.
Thanks to the exceptional grandeur, the wealth of decoration, and the masterpieces held within, the Rocca (Fortress) of Soragna is undoubtedly one of the most famous castles in Italy. Situated in a village of Parma's countryside, the rocca was built in 1385 by Antonio Bonifacio Lupi. It has a square structure with four towers and a fifth side in the middle of the main facade. Don't miss it!
In a wonderful Gothic atmosphere is located one of the main music halls of the city. This fascinating structure hosts the city's conservatory, and is considered a magnificent music school for students all around the nation. Enjoy one of the weekly concerts that take place in this wonderful venue and discover a historic music culture.
Since its inception Teatro del tempo has been the stage for a number of awe-inspiring performances and stage shows. Unconventional and rather small, with plastic chairs for seats and a low stage, the experience that this theater has to offer is unlike most others. Playing host to numerous plays, musical and operas throughout the year, its schedule is packed with entertainment for everybody. Having played host to a number of iconic shows, and witnessed some of the biggest names in theater at their prime, there's no doubt that this theater truly is one of the city's best.