I woke on the morning of 25 April to the sounds of the city setting up the stage and festivities for the celebration of Liberation Day.  This is a national holiday in Italy, commemorating two things — the end of the Italian Civil War, and also the end of the Nazi Occupation during World War II.  It is also a day for Italy to honor its veterans, and in most cities, there will be parades and displays, which do just that.  Fidenza was offering a display of military vehicles, a parade, and also a concert, later in the evening, to mark the occasion.Before the festivities began, I thought that I’d check out a couple of Fidenza’s main attractions.  I headed first for the Porta di San Domino — a medieval gate, which is the only part of Fidenza’s ancient fortifications still standing.  At the foot of the gate are the remains of an old Roman bridge.My next stop was going to be the charming Museo del Duomo, which is located behind the Duomo, or Cathedral.  The museum is fairly small, and so I was out in plenty of time to see the procession/parade set up in commemoration of the holiday.I stumbled upon a  small art show, displaying the works of local artists.  After checking out the art, I spent the next few hours wandering aimlessly, but joyfully, taking in the lovely city.I found myself on the southern outskirts of the city.  Across from a lovely park area was a road, which led to the Convent dei Cappuccino, built in 1878.  I noticed some of the locals walking towards what looked like an open field, and so decided to follow them.  I ended up on a paved walkway, which led to another that wasn’t paved, but was obviously frequently walked upon, and before I knew it, I was surrounded by beautiful countryside!I made it back in time to freshen up a bit, in my room, and then head out for the evening festivities.

Next up: a few days in Parma!

Note: This blog is written in English and Spanish, and the author takes no responsibility for the quality of any other translations which may appear.