Experience culture and music at the Palace of Colorno
There is a place, in the heart of the Bassa Parmense, where spring brings not only blossoms, but awakens the magic of a bygone era. It is the Reggia di Colorno, referred to by many as the “little Versailles of the Dukes of Parma.”
If you have not yet explored its frescoed rooms or strolled through its immense French garden, May is the perfect time to do so. This month, in fact, the Reggia comes alive with a calendar of events capable of combining art, classical music and great cinema.
Before you dive into the program, we suggest you discover the history and secrets of this magnificent complex: read our fact sheet dedicated to the Reggia di Colorno on Togoloco and get ready to travel through time.
Here are the must-see events to experience an unforgettable weekend in the elegant province of Parma.
1. Reggia in Music: Sundays resonate with beauty
Imagine sitting in the imposing Throne Room, or in the majestic Ducal Chapel of San Liborio, closing your eyes and being lulled by the notes of Schubert, Beethoven or Mozart.
The festival is back. “Palace in Music”, a regular and beloved event that transforms the ducal halls into an exceptional stage. For every Sunday in May, at 6 p.m., you can enjoy free concerts given by brilliant students and professionals from the Conservatories of Parma and Modena.
The music program:
- Sunday, May 10 (Throne Room): Music by Schubert and Weber performed on the fortepiano by Danilo Mascetti and Laura Savigni.
- Sunday, May 17 (Ducal Chapel San Liborio): An impressive organ concert by Maestro Enrico Viccardi’s class (Conservatorio Arrigo Boito).
- Sunday, May 24 (Throne Room): Gabriele Scarpa, Qiu Yikai and Jian Jie bring on stage masterpieces by Haydn, Beethoven and Schubert.
- Sunday, May 31 (Throne Room): Closing in style with soprano voice and fortepiano (music by Mozart, Rossini, Cimarosa and many others).
Note: Events are free while spaces last. We strongly suggest you make reservations!
2. The triumph of a friendship: an intimate tribute to Bernardo Bertolucci
Emilia-Romagna is a land of great cinema, and the province of Parma is inextricably linked to one of its most illustrious sons-Bernardo Bertolucci.
Saturday, May 16 at 6:00 p.m., the Throne Room will host an emotionally charged event. The book “The Triumph of a Friendship. Diary of a Lifelong Bond with Bernardo Bertolucci”, written by Alberto Minari and published by Tielleci.
The author will dialogue with editor Angelo Gil Balocchi, sharing anecdotes, memories and behind-the-scenes stories of a friendship born in the shadow of the camera and raised among the landscapes of our region. It is a unique opportunity for those who love the seventh art and want to discover the more human side of the Oscar winner.
Closing the event on a high note, there will be a evocative toast on the terrace overlooking the beautiful parterre of the Reggia, in collaboration with Villa Oppi.
3. Evening at Court: a plunge into the seductions of the 18th century
Have you ever dreamed of attending a real noble party?
On Saturday, May 23, starting at 9 p.m., the doors of the Reggia open for the event “Evening at Court”. In conjunction with the European Night of Museums, L’Orfeo Cultural Association will guide you through a unique immersive experience.
Among the festively lit salons, you will witness scenes of daily life in the 1700s. Rustling precious silks, fans hiding complicit glances, whimsy, mischief and seduction will completely envelop you. This will not be a simple guided tour, but a traveling theatrical performance capable of generating amazement in every participant.
A perfect experience for those traveling as a couple, with their circle of friends, or for anyone who wants to be captured by the magic of history.
Useful Information and Contacts
Experiencing Emilia-Romagna means savoring culture at the right pace. Choose the event that most resonates with you and plan your weekend in the Parma region.
For detailed information and recommended reservations (especially for the “Reggia in Musica” review), you can contact the Colorno Palace secretariat directly:
📞 Phone: 0521 312545 📧
Email: reggiadicolorno@provincia.parma.it
Be inspired by elegance. Discover this little Versailles in the heart of Emilia-Romagna!
