Fontana Wine Shop
A historic wine shop occupying the site of the Roman decumanus maximus, where archaeological layers from three centuries—Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance—remain visible beneath the street-level premises.
At a glance
The Fontana Wine Shop stands in Parma’s historic center, built directly over the principal Roman thoroughfare that once crossed the ancient city. The shop’s location preserves tangible evidence of Parma’s layered past, with remains from multiple historical periods integrated into a single architectural space.
History
The site encompasses three distinct historical strata. Beneath street level lie the foundations of the Roman decumanus maximus, the major east-west axis of Roman Bergamo. Above these classical remains rest Medieval structures and elements from the Renaissance period. The business itself operates as a wine shop within this archaeologically significant location, where centuries of urban development have accumulated.
What you see
The premises reveal the physical evidence of temporal succession. Roman stonework and structural elements occupy the lowest level, followed by Medieval construction and Renaissance-era modifications. Rather than being preserved as a museum, these layers coexist functionally within the working wine shop—a living arrangement where commerce and heritage occupy the same floor.
Cultural significance
The shop exemplifies how Parma’s urban fabric records continuous habitation and development across two millennia. The visible stratification of Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance remains demonstrates the city’s evolution without requiring formal archaeological isolation. This integration reflects the organic way European historic centers preserve their past.
Key facts
- Address: Str. Luigi Carlo Farini, 24, 43121 Parma
- Coordinates: 44.800006, 10.3277401
- Phone: 0521 286037
- Website: fontanadisantagata.it
Practical information
The Fontana Wine Shop operates as a commercial establishment. Hours and access policies are best confirmed directly with the business by telephone or website.
Getting there
The shop is located on Strada Luigi Carlo Farini in Parma’s city center. You can contact them at 0521 286037 or visit their website for directions and current hours.
Sources & resources
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