Through the streets of Scandiano’s historic centre: between history, science and legend

Welcome to Scandiano, a lively little town at the foot of the Reggio Apennines, home to an extraordinary historical and cultural heritage. The birthplace of world-renowned poets and scientists, its historic centre is an elegant treasure trove of architecture that bears witness to centuries of splendour.

1.Piazza Boiardo, the majestic Rocca and the Chiesa of Natività

Your tour begins in Piazza Matteo Maria Boiardo (formerly known as Piazza Castellana), dominated by the imposing Rocca dei Boiardo. A true symbol of the city, the Rocca is a fascinating architectural tapestry: as you enter the courtyard, you will notice the layers of styles left behind over the centuries. Inside, don’t miss the splendid Sala dell’Alcova, the Sala del Drappo and the monumental staircase.
Right next to the Rocca stands the Chiesa della Natività della B.V. : the imposing present-day structure dates back to the second half of the 18th century and welcomes you inside with its harmonious three naves.

2. Via Cesare Magati and la Torre dell'Orologio

From the square, take Via Cesare Magati, the historic street where Scandiano’s most noble families once lived. On the south side, the medieval arcades provide a splendid backdrop; these once housed the bustling artisan workshops.

• La Torre dell'Orologio: Built in 1430 by Feltrino Boiardo, it represents the historic entrance to the castle.

• Casa Spallanzani: In the first part of the street, take a moment to admire this splendid late 18th-century Baroque palace, featuring elegant balustrades and a large entrance with a low arch and a carriage door.

3. Corso Vallisneri and the wonder of Palazzo Liberty

Continue along Corso Vallisneri, a street laid out in the 16th century by Giovan Battista Boiardo and his son Giulio. Here, architecture enthusiasts will be captivated by Palazzo Tonarelli, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture.

• Details to look out for: on the ground floor, you’ll notice a highly original decoration featuring warriors’ faces framed by leaves, giving them a lion-like appearance. Looking up, the first floor boasts windows with Corinthian capitals and a striking balcony, whilst on the second floor the capitals are replaced by original female faces adorned with garlands.
  
  
  
  

4. Piazza Libertà, Piazza Duca d'Aosta e la Chiesa di San Giuseppe

As you continue your walk, you come to Piazza Libertà, which is connected to the lower Piazza Duca d’Aosta by a monumental staircase of great visual impact. Directly opposite this view stands Chiesa di San Giuseppe (16th century), with a late 18th-century facade. Inside, it houses a precious wooden tabernacle attributed to the famous sculptor Ceccati. A little further on, you will come to Palazzo Municipale: along the main street, on the right, take a look into an elegant, intimate private courtyard which, through a charming vaulted corridor, creates a perfect line of sight all the way to the town park.

5. Piazza Spallanzani – The Pavaglione and the legend of the well

The route ends in the spectacular Piazza Spallanzani, commissioned in 1548 by Giulio Boiardo. At its centre stands a Carrara marble statue dedicated to the great scientist Lazzaro Spallanzani. Take a moment to look around the square in 360 degrees: you will notice a beautiful harmony between arcades and buildings from different periods.”

• Il Palazzo del Pavaglione: On the open side of the square, it is made up of four historic buildings and once hosted the lively silk cocoon market.

• Casa Bassi e Casa Vallisneri: Stunning buildings overlooking the square, including the house of the famous biologist Antonio Vallisneri.

• The legend of Casa Manzotti-Carandini: In this splendid 16th-century arcaded palace (with Neoclassical interiors), it is said that the legendary town well once stood. According to tradition, walking around it three times granted official citizenship of Scandiano!