Parma is to remain Italy's designated City of Culture throughout 2021 to compensate for the interruption in its planned programme of events, due to the coronavirus shut-down.
The programme, which also involved the neighbouring cities of Piacenza and Reggio Emilia, had already been launched when the pandemic forced the suspension of all cultural activities.
The new programme was officially launched at the beginning of June with two highly original contemporary exhibitions: Fornasetti Theatrum Mundi at the Complesso Pilotta, and the Florilegium in the Oratory of San Tiburzio.
The Fornasetti Theatrum Mundi, which runs until the 14th February 2021, highlights the work of Piero Fornasetti, leading 20th century surrealist artist and interior designer, in contrast with the exhibition setting in the 16th century cluster of monumental edifices, known as La Pilotta, symbol of the power of the Farnese Dukes.
Florilegium is the creation of UK artist Rebecca Louise Law, celebrated for her amazing floral installations. Over 200,000 flowers have been used in the compositions to be admired in the imposing baroque Oratory of San Tiburzio. Until the 19th December 2020.
Parma is best known world-wide for the excellence of its exclusive food products, and is a registered UNESCO City of Gastronomy. It has Italy's largest number of local quality-protected gastronomic creations. Many are world famous, like Parma Ham, Parmigiano Reggiano, Culatello di Zibello, Borgotaro mushrooms, Coppa di Parma and the wines of the Parma Hills (Colli di Parma).
Info: Tel. +39.0521.218889/8352 parmawelcome.it fornasetti.com/exhibitions