Piacenza, Italy

Capital City

With a population of over 102,000, Piacenza is a major city in northern Italy that has weathered its share of ups and downs. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache, but the city's strategic location at the crossroads of major highways has allowed it to flourish economically over the centuries. Piacenza's harsh, humid summers may not suit all tastes, but its vibrant culture, storied history, and status as the "First-born of the Unification of Italy" make it an appealing choice for those drawn to the region's charm.