Places
Viewpoint·Moderate·Scenic·Popular

Pietra di Bismantova

Emilia-Romagna

This flat-topped rock massif near Castelnovo ne' Monti rises like a fortress from the surrounding hills and has drawn pilgrims, climbers and hermits for centuries; Dante is thought to have referenced its unmistakable shape in the Purgatorio. A path circles the base and climbs to the summit plateau, where views extend from the high Apennine ridge to the Po plain.

Duration
2.5 hours
Distance
6 km
Elevation
+350 m
Best season
March – November

Highlights

  • Possible Dante literary reference
  • Historic climbing and pilgrimage site
  • Flat summit plateau views

With your dog

Rocky path circling the plateau, dogs on leash.