Parma has always been a natural and fertile crossroad for the Italian arts, culture and gastronomy.
There have been countless musicians and artists from Parma that have been notably recognized by historians in Italy and abroad.  Among them were the well known Farnese family of Rome, the Bourbons of Spain and France, and Austrian Marie-Louise, Napoleon Bonaparte's wife, Verdi, Puccini, and Parmigianino. Click here for more information regarding the historical sites in Parma.

The imprint of Verdi, Puccini and Parmigianino can only be matched by that of Parma's gastronomic arts.
Amidst the historic architectures and beautiful countryside surrounding the vibrant city, lies narrow winding streets and piazzas that fill up with the locals (also called Parmigiani) that gather to visit galleries, museums, monuments, theaters, cathedrals, concert halls and the opera house.

Discover Parma and its cultural and gastronomic traditions through top Italian chef Giuliano Bugialli's book, "Parma: A Gastronomic Capital" on sale at the Academia Barilla online shop, where you can also find our selection of gourmet Italian food products.