Ferrara Celebrates 30 Years as a World Heritage Site

A milestone and a new beginning: in 2025, Ferrara celebrates 30 years since its international recognition as one of the world’s marvels. It was 1995 when the city’s historic center was inscribed on the World Heritage list for its extraordinary Renaissance urban design—created on a human scale and still remarkably intact today.

In 1999, the recognition was extended to include the Po Delta landscape and the Este Delights, a network of countryside villas expressing the harmony between nature and culture envisioned by the Este dynasty. Since then, Ferrara has continuously preserved and promoted its heritage, turning it into a driver of beauty, creativity, and innovation.

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To mark this special anniversary, the city is presenting a vibrant program of events running from May to December, engaging the entire community and designed to delight visitors. Highlights include culinary star Carlo Cracco, who will lead a spectacular banquet reviving the splendor of the Este court, and Angelo Branduardi, who will take the stage at the Teatro Comunale with a one-of-a-kind concert blending ancient music and modern tones. The calendar also features guided tours, music festivals, bike excursions, art exhibitions, and countless opportunities to rediscover Ferrara from a fresh perspective.

A widespread, inclusive celebration that honors the past while looking confidently to the future: because Ferrara is not just a jewel to admire, it's a city to experience.