10 good reasons to visit Lodi

What is your next destination? Let us propose 10 good reasons to visit Lodi. Breathtaking architecture, landscapes and gastronomy make this territory into a series of destinations ripe for discovering.

An essenstial stage when walking along the city center is Piazza della Vittoria and the arcades thad surround it. Historical buildings stand around it, adding further charm to the square. Market stalls occupy it on tuesdays and thursdays.

The ancient art of pottery that is found in this province is renowned for its unique features. Civic Museums collect XVth century pots while artisan shops keep tradition alive.

Whoever wishes to enjoy nature, just head into the countryside and pick the option that suits you: trekking, bicycle or horseback riding.

The Paradiso Fish Park is one of a kind, besides offering large outdoor spaces for and pic-nic areas, this natural oasis counts with underwater watchpoints that allow visitors to admire how life develops under the water.

A sojourn in Lombardy would not be complete without tasting its culinary specialties. Grana Padano DOP cheese is known all over Italy, but try the Granone Lodigiano PAT. The way it is served resembling flower petals is called Raspadüra.

Discover these delicacies at its Wine and Flavor Trails.

All of its churches are uniquely different — There is a church for every architectural style in Lodi. The first one to catch your eye will be the Cathedral or Duomo, with its characteristic Romanesque brick facade. Not far away is an imposing example of Lombard Renaissance art, the Beata Vergine Incoronata Civic Temple. The singular Church of Saint Francis, is an unfinished piece with its open windows, the Church of San Filippo Neri will amaze you with its Rococò style. Near the Adda River stands the temple dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene, a fine example of baroque building.

Famous people have traveled here — First among them Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II who founded the city not far from the old Laus Pompeia. Then there is the poet Ada Negri, the first woman to enter the Royal Italian Academy, and Paolo Gorini, distinguished scientist who contributed to the advancement of anatomical studies. Important historical events took place here, such as the Peace of Lodi that put an end to the conflict between Venice and Milan in 1454, and the Battle of Lodi, where Napoleon defeated the Austrians.

The plaza is gorgeous — Experience Lodi's charm by walking along the square perimeter of Piazza della Vittoria. By walking under its arcades you will discover City Hall, Palazzo Vistarini and the Cathedral, giving you the impression of being in a really special place. After all, it is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Italy and one of a precious few around the world that has arcades on its four sides.

It is a "science destination" — In Lodi, you have to visit the Natural Sciences Museum, sprawling over 300 square meters where you can admire quartzes and amethysts displayed in the mineralogy and petrography section and sea shells from all over the world at the malacology section. Birds and dissected animals can be found in the dedicated ornitology and zoology sections. There are almost eight hundred fossils in the paleontology section. That's not all, near the Old Hospital in Lodi you will find the Paolo Gorini Anatomy Collection, a collection of anatomical samples which speak volumes about the structure's history and that of medical research in general.

It's great for riding on bikes — Discover the wonders of Lodi and its surroundings on two wheels or on horseback on one of the many equipped bike trails. Lodi's Suburban Ring is a path that goes along the Muzza Canal and goes through the area of Belgiardino. Another path will take you along the Muzza Canal from Lodi to Villa Borromeo and Cassano d'Adda. Meanwhile, a trail to cover in just a day will take you to Cerreto Abbey. Don't forget that this territory is also part of the Via Francigena.

Its delicious cheeses… — Have you ever tried the Grana Padano DOP from the Lodi area? If you had, then you know what we are talking about. Lodi produces many quality cheeses like the Granone Lodigiano PAT, considered the ancestor of grana cheeses, the Raspadüra, delicate cheese petals that will melt in your mouth, the mascarpone and the Pannerone, a type of soft cheese that goes perfectly with candied fruit and honey.

..but its desserts are also worth mentioning — Just think of the Tortionata, also known as the Pie of Lodi, a short and flaky sweet made with almonds and butter. Or the amaretti of Sant'Angelo Lodigiano, named after the village that produces these small cookies since the early 19th century. The scrumptious and crumbly Biscotti of Codogno, perfect for dunking in a glass of local milk or a calice of sweet malvasia.

Let's not forget about the wine — The San Colombano DOC is a red wine made with Croatina, Barbera and Rare grapes for its still and sparkling versions. White wine on the other hand is produced by making a good use of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir: fragrant and ideal for starting lunch. There's also a milder version with Vigna, more articulate, it should be paired with freshwater fish. Follow the San Colombano Wine and Lodi Flavours Route to discover its wine cellars.

Its ceramics are works of art — There is a dedicated section at the Civic Museum that gathers ceramic pieces from the XV-XVII centuries made in local workshops. Many renowned ceramic schools bloomed in the city, such as the one by Antonio Maria Coppellotti with its sixteenth century tiles, Italian and French decorations and remembrances of chinoiserie. What about Fabbrica Rossetti, active since 1729, with its tiles full of colorful decorations on a white background, Fabbrica Ferretti which specialized in the flower-themed Vecchia Lodi ceramic pieces. Just outside the museum, you will find many shops and artisans that keep tradition alive.

It's fun for the whole family — Stay outdoors at the Paradiso Fish Park, a natural oasis where researchers allow visitors to take a look below the water and spaces for picnics abound. There is also the Caroline Island, a renovated park a few steps away from the city center, fully equipped with playgrounds and health trails.

AWARD: Lombardy Style. Beauty without borders

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