Parmigianino Monument, Parma

Parmigianino Monument in Parma is dedicated to the famous local artist of the Renaissance. Located in the center of the city, it combines a statue and a small fountain. Such composition fits perfectly into the design of a small town square.

Personality

Francesco Mazzola was a famous painter and engraver of the turbulent Renaissance. He lived and worked in the first half of the 16th century. Francesco took the nickname Parmigianino, derived from the expression "resident of Parma". Orphaned at 2, he was brought up by his father's brothers, artists. He created his first picture when he was 16. The artist was famous for being addicted to magic and alchemy, which could be traced in his paintings. Most of his works were created in the style of Mannerism. The master lived in Parma, Rome, Bologna, and died in the small town of Casalmaggiore in 1540.

Monument

The monument was designed by the sculptor Giovanni Chierici. It was opened in 1879. It consists of a two-level fountain with a square base, a pedestal and the actual statue of the artist. The whole composition is made of white marble. On the second level, two women's heads are placed on the eastern and western sides, which discharge water into small reservoirs. From the southern and northern sides there are coats of arms of sponsors: the communes of Parma and the Order of Saint Constantine. Pedestal with a statue crowns the monument.

How to get there

The monument is located on a small Piazzale della Steccata, in the center of Parma. Next door is the Basilica di Santa Maria della Steccata, which was adorned by the artist. Nearby there is a Monument to Garibaldi on the square with the same name, and the Museumof Natural History. The nearest public transport stop, Via Mazzini, is a 2-minute walk away. It can be reached by buses 1, 2, 2N, 3, 4, 4N, 5, 8.