In the heart of the Oltretorrente of Parma, along the central Strada d’Azeglio, stands one of the most representative monuments of the city’s history: the Ospedale Vecchio. This extraordinary Renaissance building, a symbol of public solidarity and the evolution of the city’s healthcare system, tells the story of over five centuries of history in architecture, medicine and assistance.

A bit of history
The Ospedale Vecchio, also known as the Ospedale della Misericordia, was founded in 1201 as a place of refuge for pilgrims and the poor. The current building was rebuilt to a design by the architect Giovanni Antonio da Erba between 1476 and 1514, according to the Renaissance model of the “Latin cross”. Its long nave covered with wooden trusses recalls the style of the great medieval basilicas.

On the facade, still visible today, you can read the Latin inscription:
"PUBLICA PIETAS AEGROS ET VULNERA COMPRAVIT",
which means "Public piety bought the sick and the wounded", a testimony to the charitable function of the institution.

Restoration and new cultural function
The hospital ceased its healthcare functions in the 20th century. After a long period of abandonment, it was the subject of a redevelopment project that transformed the structure into a cultural and archival center. Today it houses:

the Civic Library "Mario Colombi Guidotti",

the Historical Archive of the Municipality of Parma,

and an exhibition space for temporary exhibitions and cultural activities.

The internal cloister and the nave can be visited during FAI events and days.

🏛️ Ospedale Vecchio di Parma
📍 Address:
Strada Massimo d’Azeglio, 45 – 43125 Parma (PR)

📞 Useful contacts:
Biblioteca Civica “Mario Colombi Guidotti”
Phone: +39 0521 218229
Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

🕘 Opening hours (Library):
Monday–Friday: 8:15–19:00
Saturday: 8:15–13:30
(Check for any seasonal variations on the website of the Municipality of Parma)