An experience in Ferrara

In my view, if I try to be as impartial as I can, Ferrara is a truly beautiful city to live in. The standard of living is probably better than most Italian cities: the traffic isn't normally a huge problem, especially in the centre, it's a great place to eat out in and there are many sports facilities for every kind of activity. In addition, its historical and cultural heritage are certainly remarkable, and they have an abundance of natural parks and areas which makes the Ferrara experience more pleasant. The only possible disadvantage is the climate: it's normally quite cold and cloudy in the winter, and often very hot and humid in the summer.

Although it isn't particularly expensive compared to other cities in the North of Italy (Padova, Venice, Milan), living in Ferrara isn't exactly cheap. However, it's possible to find some independent supermarkets where you can go shopping at a reasonable price. Not including meals out, your food shopping could cost you an average of around 300 euros a month. On the other hand, I must say that the city centre is so small that you don't have to spend money on using public transport if you live relatively close to the centre.

Since it's a city fairly used to receiving Erasmus students (and students coming from other Italian cities in general), Ferrara has quite a wide range of accommodation. In fact, it's possible to find a good room to rent from around 250 euros. It would be a good idea to look up information regarding the possible benefits or help offered by the University of Ferrara, given that they are normally extremely sensitive to the needs of their students.

As the magazine company Forbes has recently stated, the Emilian cuisine is probably the best in the world. Eating out in Ferrara is no exception: the culinary standards are rather high. Although it's impossible to write and explain the infinite array of possible choices in just a few lines, I'll try to provide you with a list which includes the main traditional dishes from the local cuisine. As for starters, they include: Cappellacci di zucca (a pumpkin pasta dish), cappelletti in brodo (a special Christmas pasta), or pasticcio alla ferrarese (a special pastry filled with pasta they make in Ferrara). As for mains, they have: salamina da sugo con purè e cotechino (a type of sausage and mash), and as a side dish: polenta (like a hot porridge) and lumache (pasta). Finally, for dessert, they offer: pampapato (like a rocky road) and torta tenerina (a chocolate cake). Furthermore, the bread from Ferrara is one of the best in Italy. It's particularly symbolised as a twisted shape and called "coppia", but I'm not talking about sliced bread. I'm talking about the product which makes Emilia famous and what it's mainly celebrated for (along with cheese). The local speciality is a type of salami sausage called "zia ferrarese".

Among the places you definitely can't miss visiting in Ferrara include, without a doubt, the Castle and the Cathedral, situated right in the centre. Both Piazza Ariostea (a big square) and Palazzo dei Diamanti (a famous palace) are two symbols from the Renaissance period, and they are probably the most symbolic places in the city, as well as the most famous. However, there are many other places, even though they're less well-known, which are worth visiting. Among these places, I would include the distinctive Via delle Volte (a typical tourist street), San Giorgio church, Palazzo Schifanoia (a palace) and Palazzo Paradiso (another palace). All these places represent a substantial part of the rich medieval heritage in Ferrara.

Regarding the nightlife, although it may seem quite standard for the locals, the Erasmus students could find it a bit disappointing. In any case, if you're not satisfied with the few clubs that are in the city, or just outside of the city, it's possible to catch the train to Bologna to find a more exciting nightlife. A classic club that the university students go to is called Renfe (for any Spanish students out there, I'm not referring to the Spanish train company Renfe). The best student night is normally Wednesday.

I can't forget to mention that Ferrara is also called the "European City of bikes". In fact, cycling is the best way to get around Ferrara every day, or just to explore the city. Therefore, one of the first things you need to do when you get to Ferrara is find a second hand bike. And if you're not used to riding a bike... hmm, get used to it! In addition, as I have already mentioned the weather, in Autumn and winter it tends to be quite cold (sometimes it snows, normally two or three times a year), so it's better to pack thick and warm clothes. Given that your diet will probably be put under strain because of the Emilian cuisine, I would really consider taking part in some of the sports activities and groups the city has to offer. Finally, if you're curious and want to find out more about some of Ferrara's secrets before you arrive, read any book about the city: for English speakers, there's an interesting novel called "Sacred Hearts" by Sarah Dunant which would be a good choice.