Discover Savignano Sul Panaro

Savignano sul Panaro lies between the hills and the upper plain, on the right bank of the Panaro. Museums, buildings in the medieval historic centre and routes through the hills reveal different aspects of the destination. When looking for a hotel in Savignano sul Panaro, you can first consider whether you want to focus your trip mainly on museums and historic buildings, the landscape or an event.

Museums, Prehistory and the Roman Era

The Museo dell’Elefante displays the skeleton of a female Mammuthus meridionalis. Dioramas, information panels and replicas of other finds complement the exhibition route. At the Museo della Venere, a copy of the Venere di Savignano is displayed alongside reproductions of comparable prehistoric figurines from Italy and Europe. Both museums offer insight into very different periods of local history.

The area around Savignano sul Panaro was historically crossed by the ancient Roman road Via Claudia. The Museo della Venere e dell’Elefante is open on Sundays and public holidays from 14:30 to 18:30. On weekdays, visits and guided tours are available by prior reservation. Check the opening times again before your trip.

The Borgo, Castle and Architectural History

The historic centre is still surrounded by a triple ring of walls dating from the 14th century. You enter the upper part of town through a fortified gate with remains of a drawbridge. A winding main street, lined with houses—some of which date back to the 15th century—climbs to the upper panoramic plateau.

The Castello di Savignano is documented from 1026. Its present-day appearance is dominated by a stone tower. Beneath it is an arched gateway, above which is a fresco of the Madonna and Child; the artist is unknown. According to some studies, the originally diamond-shaped complex was expanded and fortified with three rows of walls and towers. This interpretation is attributed to those studies.

The Oratorio di San Rocco stands in the medieval Borgo and was built to ward off the plague of 1631. The Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santa Maria Assunta is documented at this site as early as 1027 and 1033; its present-day structure dates from 1746. The Torre dei Nanni is also part of the historic townscape. Its origins are uncertain; as a watchtower, it was intended to help the residents of Borgo Castello defend themselves against imminent enemy attacks.

Giuseppe Graziosi’s birthplace is a tower house dating from the 16th to 18th centuries, with a central section and two side wings. It houses «Il Mosaico Riscoperto», a polychrome mosaic from the early 5th century AD. It once decorated the interior of a wealthy country residence.

Hills and Historic Routes

The Via delle Querce runs through the hills of Savignano sul Panaro, along the southeastern side of the Bazzanese state road. Numerous large oak trees grow there and could be considered natural monuments. The landscape setting complements the compact built-up area of the historic centre and adds to the picture of the town’s architectural history.

Events and Local Cuisine

The Magnalonga Diurna follows a ten-kilometre route through the hills of Savignano sul Panaro. Wines from the area are showcased at the event, alongside traditional dishes, music and dancing. The Magnalonga Notturna starts at sunset and continues until dawn. Its route is slightly shorter. First held in 2014, it takes place at night by torchlight and moonlight, with tastings of typical recipes and wines from Savignano sul Panaro’s wineries.

The Lotta per la Spada dei Contrari is an annual historical re-enactment in the medieval Borgo. Guided tours are also available at two different locations: the wine cellar at Poderi Fiorini and the Torre dei Nanni. The Cocktail Experience is available year-round from Monday to Saturday by prior reservation; groups consist of five to 15 participants. Find out about reservation options in advance. The area is also known for the production of Prosciutto di Modena.

Discover more destinations: San Prospero, Ravarino, Casa Marchetti, Frassinoro, Fiumalbo, Palagano, Le Tagliole, Riolunato.

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