Carducci called it the land of wise men and poets: Scandiano is a small gem in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, birthplace of several important figures in Italian history. Among those born here are Matteo Maria Boiardo, one of the most renowned and important Italian writers of the 15th century, and Lazzaro Spallanzani, one of the fathers of modern biology.
Its charming historic center and small hamlets are home to fascinating treasures, while the surrounding areas open up to natural wonders, perfect for days spent in the green of the Emilia-Romagna countryside. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, culture, or a bit of adventure, Scandiano will surprise you and take your breath away.
What to See in Scandiano, Between History and Tradition
Every corner of Scandiano tells fascinating and enchanting stories. Your first stop will be the Rocca dei Boiardo, a majestic 13th-century castle that dominates the heart of the village. This magical place was the birthplace of Matteo Maria Boiardo, the author of the famous poem Orlando Innamorato, and hosted notable historical figures such as Francesco Petrarca and Giovanni Calvino. Today, within its ancient walls, exhibitions and events come to life, enveloping you in a unique atmosphere.
Continuing your journey, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Pieve di Santa Maria, a 15th-century church just a few steps from the Rocca. Passing through its elegant tripartite façade, you can discover masterpieces such as the painting of St. Catherine of Alexandria by Bartolomeo Passarotti and the Madonna delle Grazie by Orazio Talami. Not far, the Church of San Giuseppe, built in the 16th century, welcomes you with its simplicity and history.
Scandiano is also home to its Civic Tower or Clock Tower. Built in the 15th century by Feltrino Boiardo, the tower was the ancient entrance gate to the medieval village. Its clock, with an unusual single-handed dial and a sun-shaped spindle, will certainly catch your attention.
Finally, take a step back in time at the Castello di Arceto, a medieval jewel dating back to the 10th century. Walking through the inner courtyard, you’ll feel history come to life before your eyes.
Nature Trails: Discovering the Emilia-Romagna Countryside
Nature lovers will find a true paradise in Scandiano. The surrounding area offers numerous naturalistic itineraries that allow you to immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes.
From the village’s streets, several trails start, perfect for walking, biking, or horseback riding, to discover charming natural spots, traces of the area’s industrial history, lakes, and rivers.
Among them, we recommend Trail No. 2 – The Tresinaro river and the Great Oak. It is a panoramic route offering a beautiful view of Scandiano and the entire plain. On clearer days, from the rural village of Bottegaro, you can admire the majestic Apennines in the distance.
From Scandiano, it’s easy to reach the Pinetina di Vezzano, a natural oasis offering trails through pine forests and meadows ideal for revitalizing walks. If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, the Reggio Emilia Apennines provide trekking trails immersed in unspoiled nature, perfect for those wishing to explore wild and authentic landscapes.
Your Stay in Scandiano: Il Brugnolo, a Refuge of Peace and Sustainability
To make your stay in Scandiano even more special, we recommend staying at Il Brugnolo, an eco-sustainable agriturismo nestled in the Emilia-Romagna countryside. The property offers 3 charming one-bedroom apartments located inside a 19th-century stone farmhouse and 4 new studio apartments in a newly constructed building behind the farmhouse. Surrounding it all is a 6,000-square-meter park, perfect for enjoying some peaceful solitude, family time with children, or even with your pets. The agriturismo is located within a 10-hectare farm, most of which is covered by vineyards that produce excellent organic wines. There is also a photovoltaic system with 105 panels generating 19 KW of energy.
Thanks to its privileged location, Il Brugnolo is the perfect starting point to explore Scandiano and its surroundings. The agriturismo stands out for its strong commitment to environmental sustainability, using renewable energy and promoting responsible tourism.
Scandiano is a destination that captivates with its blend of history, nature, and outdoor activities. Whether you want to explore ancient castles, immerse yourself in nature, or enjoy a mountain biking adventure, this village has something for everyone. Moreover, the warm Emilia-Romagna hospitality and delicious local cuisine will make your stay even more enjoyable.
Cover photo: © Giorgio Galeotti, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Agriturismo il Brugnolo Scandiano – Green Farm house in Scandiano, Reggio-Emilia, Emilia-Romagna, IT 
