In the Footsteps of Hannibal
Retracing the Battle of the Trebbia: a journey to History
Duration: approximately 4/5 hours
Transport: by minibus
A journey through history in Hannibal's footsteps, from the Trebbia plain to the hills of Val Luretta, exploring the places associated with the great Carthaginian commander's passage and the celebrated Battle of the Trebbia in 218 BC.
The excursion takes you in some of the most striking viewpoints in the Piacenza hills, bringing to life the strategies, movements and daily routines of ancient armies. An itinerary combining history and landscape, concluding with a tasting of local food and wines.
First stop – Rivergaro and the Trebbia plain (30 minutes) During the journey, a historical introduction will cover: the Second Punic War/Hannibal's arrival in Italy/the Battle of the Trebbia in 218 BC/the strategic importance of the surrounding valleys.
From a panoramic viewpoint, guests can look out across the plain and imagine: the movements of the Roman troops/ the Numidian cavalry/ the possible supply routes.
Experience: guests will receive a small historical map of the area.
Second stop – Gazzola and lower Val Luretta (40 minutes)
Transfer by minibus. Here, the narrative focuses on the most widely accepted theory that Hannibal may have used the hills of Val Luretta to: observe the plain/ conceal troop movements/obtain water and forage.
Experience:readings from Polybius and Livy, accompanied by an accessible explanation (A short 15–20-minute walk).
Third stop – Rezzanello and Tavernago (45 minutes)
A scenic drive up towards the ridges. From the panoramic viewpoint, guests can see: the Trebbia River/the Po Valley/the natural routes connecting the valleys.
Experience – "How did an ancient general think?"
Guests are invited to take part in a short simulation: "If you were Hannibal, where would you position your lookouts?"
Fourth stop – Agazzano and the surrounding hills (30 minutes)
A brief stop at a panoramic viewpoint, exploring: the role of the hills as natural corridors/daily life in ancient armies/the relationship between armies and local communities.
A tasteful ending – "The Table after the Battle" (1 hour)
Arrival at a farmhouse restaurant or winery for an aperitivo-style dinner featuring:
* Piacenza PDO cured meats;
* local cheeses;
* focaccia;
* wines from the Colli Piacentini.
