Emilia-Romagna

Bologna, the regional capital of Emilia-Romagna, is without question the gastronomic capital of Italy.

It is the spiritual home of much fresh pasta, including lasagne, tortellini, ravioli and tagliatelle to name but a few.

The original, authentic ragù alla bolognese is the ideal local sauce for such pasta dishes, being a million miles away from its pale imitations around the world.

In addition to pasta, Emilia-Romagna also boasts the world-renowned products from the city of Parma such as parmeggiano reggiano, the king of cheeses, and prosciutto di parma, surely the most famous cured pork in the world.

Not to be forgotten is the town of Modena, home to the divine taste of authentic 12 year old balsamic vinegar.