On the Trail of Parma’ s finest ham
The Lowlands of the Province of Parma gave birth to the world’s finest ham, Culatello of Zibello. The Parma Lowlands consist in the plain north of Parma, the area that goes from the Via Emilia to the Po river, the lowest part above sea level of the whole province. It is a territory to discover and enjoy at a slow pace, characterized by the respect for ancient traditions, rich in history, art and genuine food.
The route to the discovery of Culatello of Zibello and the Parma Lowlands starts crossing by car the strip of land running from the Parma Morta Reserve to Maria Luigia’s Woods in Torricella, near the meandering of the Taro river , to reach Roccabianca, Polesine Parmense and Zibello, places where it seems as if time has stood still.
After a visit to a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory – the king of cheeses has been produced in this area since medieval times – it will be possible to visit a farm devoted to the production of Culatello of Zibello . The masterpieces of the local culinary tradition, such as Culatello, Fiocco, Spalla di San Secondo, Salami and Strolghino, are produced and refined in magnificent cellars. Few people know that this is the area in the world where the greatest variety of cured meat products is obtained from pigs!
During the visit you will be able to understand the features and origins of the different products, the characteristics and the history of the king of cured meat, the Culatello of Zibello, the secret of which lies in the careful selection of the meat and aging, favoured by the autumn fog and the sultry summers. The visit ends with a rich tasting or lunch, a real joy for the senses!
The immersion in Parma Lowlands may continue in the afternoon with various options for the visit: from an itinerary dedicated to the most significant places in the life of the great composer Giuseppe Verdi to a relaxing sailing experience along the Po river, to discover stories and anecdotes about the Great River. To people interested in Art and History – or just curious! – Michelle Costa suggests a visit to one of the many castles in the area, rich in stories, legends and artistic treasures, whilst to the true gourmets she advises a visit to a winery followed by tasting to truly appreciate the Parma Lowlands scents and flavours!
COST: Variable cost depending on the number of participants. Starting from € 30.
DURATION: half a day or full day
PERIOD OF THE YEAR: all year long
RESERVATION: tel. +39 348 4559176 email michellevaleria.costa@gmail.com
