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Zibello, Capital of Culatello in the Parma lowlands

Writer's picture: Gabriele SerrauGabriele Serrau

Updated: Oct 24, 2024

The ancient origins of Zibello

Zibello, a small village located along the banks of the river Po in the heart of the Po Valley, boasts a history dating back to the Middle Ages. Founded in the 14th century, this charming Emilian village is best known for its ancient tradition linked to the production of culatello di Zibello, one of Italy's most prized cured meats. Its history and its link with the territory make it a perfect example of a Slow City, where time seems to stand still to allow visitors to fully savour its culture and traditions.


Sustainability and traditions

Zibello, part of the Slow Cities network, is committed to promoting a sustainable lifestyle that enhances the territory and its traditions. Attention to the quality of life is reflected in local policies aimed at preserving the natural and cultural heritage, promoting slow tourism and adopting environmentally friendly farming practices.

This small village is a symbol of the culture of ‘good living’, where the slow rhythms of the countryside and the pleasure of things done with care are rediscovered.


An architectural heritage to discover

The village of Zibello, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, is a place that offers an authentic and evocative atmosphere. Highlights include the Church of San Carlo Borromeo, an example of Renaissance sacred architecture, and the Palazzo Pallavicino, an ancient aristocratic residence that bears witness to the village's rich history. Every corner of Zibello is steeped in history, making the visit a continuous discovery.


Responsible tourism and authentic experiences

Zibello invites its visitors to discover the territory through authentic and environmentally friendly experiences. The village is surrounded by fertile and generous countryside, where local producers passionately cultivate the raw materials that give life to the area's typical products. Visits to the cellars and artisan workshops, where the famous culatello is produced, offer tourists the opportunity to see first-hand the ancient processing techniques and to taste the authentic flavours of this corner of Italy.


Culatello and other treasures of the territory

Culatello di Zibello is undoubtedly the king of local gastronomy. Matured in the cellars of the village, where the unique microclimate of the mists of the Po Valley help develop its unmistakable flavour, culatello is a prized cured meat appreciated all over the world. But Zibello does not only offer culatello: salami, spalla cotta and Parmigiano Reggiano are also part of the rich culinary tradition of the place. In the town's restaurants and trattorias, visitors can savour these delicacies accompanied by local wines, for a unique gastronomic experience.


Events and traditions

Zibello is a village that lives intensely its traditions, and the culmination of these celebrations takes place every year with the Festa del Culatello di Zibello, held in June. During this festival, the streets of the village come alive with events, food stands and tastings celebrating the king of cured meats. Another popular event is the November Porc, an event that involves several municipalities in the Bassa Parmense area and is held on weekends in November, during which visitors can taste the best pork products.



Nature and outdoor activities

Zibello is located in the heart of the Po Valley, in an area rich in waterways and cultivated fields. The vicinity of the Po River offers perfect scenery for outdoor activities, such as hiking or cycling along the cycle paths that run along the river. Here, nature lovers can enjoy a quiet and relaxing landscape, surrounded by greenery, which offers an experience of deep connection with the surrounding environment.


Handicrafts and local tradition

Handicrafts in Zibello reflect the deep connection with tradition and farming culture. In addition to the production of culatello, in the village you can find handicrafts related to leather work, ceramics and wood, all made according to ancient techniques handed down from generation to generation.

The hamlet's workshops are a veritable treasure chest, where it is possible to buy unique objects and discover local craft traditions.


The best time to visit Zibello

Zibello can be visited at any time of year, but the best months to discover the village and its territory are spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and the surrounding countryside is in bloom or tinged with warm autumn colours.

Moreover, visiting Zibello during the local festivals allows one to completely immerse oneself in the local traditions, tasting the typical products and participating in the folkloristic celebrations.

A journey through taste and tradition

Visiting Zibello means immersing oneself in a village where culinary and artisan traditions are alive and present in every aspect of daily life. The slow pace of country life, the warmth of the inhabitants and the extraordinary quality of the local products make Zibello an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic experience full of flavour.

Here, every nook and cranny tells a story of passion and respect for the land, making the journey a true plunge into the heart of the most genuine Italy.


 

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