For those travelling with their four-legged friends, here is a nice pet-friendly itinerary in Modena.
The first stop is Piazza Grande, which has always been the beating heart of the city. Perhaps it was originally its size that determined its appellation, but Modena’s main square is also revealed as “grand” for the graceful grace and harmony with which the seats of civic and religious power are integrated. It is splendidly framed: by the southern flank of the Duomo, one of the finest examples of Romanesque art; by the Torre Ghirlandina, one of the most beautiful bell towers in Italy; and by the airy portico of the Palazzo Comunale, which shelters the pleasant “living room” made up of tables and seats of the various bars and restaurants. It is precisely in one of these establishments that you can take a short break. The outdoor tables will allow you and your furry friend to linger comfortably.
From Piazza Grande, continuing first along Via Emilia Centro and then Via Farini, we reach Piazza Roma, the second stop on the itinerary. Shaped by centuries of history, it reflects the city’s evolution from medieval stronghold to Renaissance and Baroque cultural centre. It is overlooked by the splendid Palazzo Ducale (now the seat of the Modena Military Academy), considered by art and architecture experts to be one of the most beautiful 17th-century princely palaces in Europe. Opposite the entrance to the Ducal Palace is the monument to Ciro Menotti (hero of the Italian Risorgimento), created by sculptor Cesare Sighinolfi in the 19th century. We recommend that you sit on one of the benches wisely distributed around the area, to enjoy the view of the square and the entertaining water games of its fountains.
The third stop is the Estense Ducal Garden, a perfect place to relax with your faithful companion. Located at the end of Corso Canalgrande, a few steps from Piazza Roma, it is the city’s most important historical park. Its origins can be traced back to 1598, when Duke Cesare had a large uncultivated area north of the Castle fenced off with a hedge. But it was in the second half of the 19th century that it took on its present appearance. The park is characterised by the presence of the valuable Palazzina Vigarani, a beautifully crafted building that retains the classic features of 17th-century architecture.
The next stop is the MEF – Enzo Ferrari Museum, which is worth a visit even if you are not a motoring enthusiast. Located along Via Paolo Ferrari, the museum provides fun Ferrari-shaped kennels free of charge, where you can leave your dogs during your visit. The kennels are sheltered, outdoors in the museum garden and in the shade, and equipped with a water bowl. In the futuristic pavilion of more than 2500 square metres, some of the most beautiful and successful cars of all time are on display. Next to the pavilion is the old workshop of Enzo’s father, where an exhibition of the custom-built cars made by Ferrari and customised in close collaboration with the lawyer Gianni Agnelli is on display.
Finally, the last stop is XXII Aprile Park (Via Giovanni Battista Spaccini), where there are two dog-free areas. Built in 1976 on the area formerly occupied by the course of the Naviglio canal and the Pentetorri villa, it alternates areas with single-species groves with regular planting and capable of creating particular chromatic effects, areas with isolated groups of plants and finally extensive areas of ornamental lawn.
Photo gallery (1 and 2) © Canva | (3) © bbcc Regione Emilia-Romagna
AGRITURISMO IL BRUGNOLO
Welcome to il Brugnolo
If you’re looking for completely independent apartments surrounded by greenery you really are in the right place here!
In fact, Brugnolo is immersed in the green nature of the Emilian countryside. For your relaxation, for that of your children, and again for the runs of your 4-legged friends, you will have 6000 square meters of park at your disposal!
