Voices from the past

The first settlements in the Imola area date back to about ten thousand years ago. The first to live and cultivate this rich area were the Boi Gauls. Roman expansion reached this area in the 2nd century BC from the nearby Rimini through the Via Emilia, which was already under construction. Imola was then called Forum Cornelii and was truly prosperous for some time. When the empire collapsed the city was subjected to barbaric domination. The first to occupy the city were the Goths, then the Byzantines, making it part of Ravenna's exarchate. In the 8th century it receives a new name with the Lombards and after a few years Charlemagne takes it from them and hands it over to the Church. Imola stays the property of the church for a thousand years. At the end of the 18th century the city is invaded by Napoleon's French troops, but later becomes part of the Kingdom of Italy. Starting in the post-second world war the city started a new development stage, tied in mostly with industry and agriculture.

Don't miss...

Imola is a city full of history and therefore lots of places are worth a visit. First of all La Rocca Sforzesca, built in the 14th century on a pre-existent construction. The building is square shaped, with circular turrets and a central tower; during the years of domination by the Pontifical State the stronghold was turned into a jail and now it collects antique weapons and pottery. Palazzo Tozzoni, which belonged to the dynasty by the same name, is also worth seeing as an example of 18th century nobility residence. The palace opened to the public in 1981 as a museum with period furniture, the Tozzoni family collections and their private library. Art lovers will be charmed by the beauty of city's churches, first of all the Cattedrale di San Cassiano, built at the end of the 12th century with a bell tower from the 15th century, and rich with works from the 1400's and the 1500's. Also worth seeing is the Basilica del Piratello where there are pictorial works of the Guercino school and canvases of 19th century school. The stained glass windows are also beautiful as well as the main altar.

Events

Though small, Imola offers lots of different events. The Teatro Comunale "Ebe Stignani" has a calendar ranging from classic works to modern cabaret. There are many drama workshops in town promoted by the town hall and various other associations. Particularly interesting is the contest for women "la parola e il gesto" (word and gesture) and the short film review "Corto Imola Festival".