What to see in Bertinoro, “The Balcony of Romagna”

by letygoeson8, Nov, 2023Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Located just 15 kilometers from Forlì, in Romagna, Bertinoro is a gem perched on a hill, offering a spectacular view of the colorful plains and vineyards stretching all the way to the sea. Known as “The Balcony of Romagna,” Bertinoro is celebrated not only for its breathtaking beauty but also as the “City of Wine” and the “City of Hospitality.”

On a mild early November day, we decided to explore an authentic treasure: Bertinoro, a village “just the way we like them” – authentic, with an ancient soul, rich in stories, traditions, and culinary delights!

It was an invitation to a lavish lunch that brought us here, but that was just the beginning! Bertinoro quickly enchanted us with its intimate atmosphere, cobbled streets winding uphill, and its unmistakable Romagnolo landscape.

Bertinoro rises like a medieval jewel on the heights of Mount Cesubeo, in the heart of the enchanting Romagna hills, just 15 kilometers from Forlì. Its strategic position makes it a true panoramic balcony, offering unparalleled views of the stunning landscapes stretching below, providing a breathtaking visual experience of Romagna’s beauty.

If you plan to explore this charming village, I recommend arriving in the late morning, parking for free in the spaces around the center, and dedicating a few hours to fully immerse yourself in its atmosphere. Despite its small size, Bertinoro offers a rich variety of sights to see, picturesque corners to photograph, and treasures to discover.

COSA TROVERAI IN QUESTO POST:

Piazza della Libertà in Bertinoro

Upon arriving in Piazza della Libertà, I am sure you will be drawn to the right by the breathtaking view of the entire Romagna region stretching before you! On clear days, you can even see as far as the Adriatic Sea.

The iconic photo at the beginning of this post was taken just below Piazza della Libertà, on the terrace of the Ca de Be restaurant, which is open to the public 24 hours a day.

But to the left, another marvel will capture your attention: the majestic Palazzo Ordelaffi, a gem dating back to 1306, now housing Bertinoro’s town hall. Inside, artistic treasures such as paintings by the famous artist Zambianchi can be admired in the Hall of Paintings. The People’s Hall, on the other hand, is where citizens gather to discuss and share ideas.

Looking up, you can’t miss the Clock Tower, an ancient beacon that, with its timeless clock, continues to mark the rhythm of life in this historic village.

Piazza della Libertà is also home to the majestic three-nave Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, the patron saint of Bertinoro. This sacred place, completed in 1601, holds centuries of devotion and spirituality.

The symbol of the City of Hospitality

And then there’s the Column of Rings, a unique symbol of hospitality! Since ancient times, Bertinoro has been known for its generous welcome. In the past, noble families competed for the honor of hosting pilgrims, leading to disputes that were resolved thanks to this very column. The 12 rings on the column represent the families of that era; when a pilgrim arrived in Bertinoro, they would tie their horse to one of these rings and be warmly hosted by the corresponding family.

Today, this tradition has been slightly modified but still maintains its generous and welcoming spirit. During the Hospitality Festival, held on the first weekend of September, this ancient custom is celebrated with performances and fascinating historical reenactments. A timeless ritual that brings Bertinoro back to its past every year.

The Bell of Albana

In 1994, artist Bardeggia created a symbolic representation of hospitality that has since become an icon of Bertinoro: the Bell of Albana. This beautiful artwork is located on the terrace of the Enoteca Ca’ de Be and is freely accessible via a staircase connecting it to the Piazza.
This refined artistic gesture serves as a tangible testament to the warm hospitality that Bertinoro extends to all who visit.

The Harvest Road

Nestled between the charming streets of Via della Trinità and Via Vendemini, the Harvest Road is an enchanted path. This cobbled walkway, weaving through gentle slopes amidst nature, features a permanent exhibition paying homage to the secrets of the grape harvest.

Here, walls come to life through the brushes of renowned artists who have captured the essence of winemaking. Each stroke tells a story that begins with the delicate planting of grapes, flowing through the phases of harvesting, pressing, and fermentation, until it becomes the divine “Nectar of the Gods.”

The paintings along the Harvest Road are not just works of art but open windows into the magical world of vineyards and wineries. Every detail, every hue, captures the vibrant energy of this ancient process that transforms humble grapes into a refined elixir.

Bertinoro and Its Gastronomy

I hope I have already convinced you to visit Bertinoro for its ancient charm and peaceful ambiance, but if not, here’s another reason! Bertinoro is also a realm of culinary delights, celebrated for the excellence of its products, with wine leading the way.

Here, vineyards gift the world with exquisite varieties such as the renowned Sangiovese and Albana, affectionately called “the gold of Bertinoro.”

But it’s not just the wine that makes Bertinoro a gastronomic paradise. The extra virgin olive oil “Colline di Romagna” is a true delight, while squacquerone, a fresh and creamy cheese, pairs perfectly with the unmistakable piadina romagnola.

Among the sweetest specialties, there is Saba, a grape syrup preserving the authentic flavor of tradition, and Savor, a rustic jam that enchants with every bite.

I must confess that it was an invitation to lunch here with friends from Forlì that first brought me to Bertinoro, to the excellent Osteria del Punto: seasonal dishes and local ingredients that will make you fall in love with this splendid land.

Surroundings to Explore: Medieval Villages and Enchanting Landscapes

As you may already know, I have a passion for villages! If you’re here, I hope you share this love with me! That’s why, during your visit to Bertinoro, I recommend exploring its surroundings, which conceal rare gems off the beaten tourist paths and are absolutely worth seeing!

And if you are passionate about history, Forlimpopoli, San Leo, and Brisighella await with their fortresses and fairytale atmospheres. Just twenty kilometers from Bertinoro, Longiano presents itself as a truly well-preserved gem, with its double walls telling ancient stories.

All the villages of Romagna…