Parma

Parma is a city in the northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna famous for its architecture, music, art, prosciutto (ham), cheese and surrounding countryside. It is home to the University of Parma, one of the oldest universities in the world. Parma is divided into two parts by the stream of the same name.

History

The Etruscan civilization established the city of Parma in the 6th century BC. The city was later included in the Roman Empire and it was granted the status of a city by the emperor Augustus in 183 BC. During the Roman period, important public works were realized including a bridge and a circus. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the city was besieged by the Goths, Lombards and Franks. In the 9th century, it was a possession of the Holy Roman Empire.

Culture

Parma is famous for its Prosciutto di Parma (Parma ham) and its cheese, known as Parmigiano-Reggiano (Parmesan cheese). Both are protected designation of origin products. Parma also claims several stuffed pasta dishes like "tortelli d'erbetta" and "anolini in brodo".

In music, Parma is known for its opera house, the Teatro Regio di Parma. The city annually hosts the Verdi Festival, celebrating the music of the local composer Giuseppe Verdi.

Economy

Parma's economy is based on a series of industrial activities, including the food sector (Parma ham, Parmesan cheese), engineering, pharmaceuticals, and the production of machines and appliances.

Education

The University of Parma, founded in the 11th century, is one of the oldest universities in the world, and hosts a wide range of academic disciplines.

See also

• Emilia-Romagna
• Prosciutto di Parma
• Parmigiano-Reggiano
• Teatro Regio di Parma
• University of Parma