Information Cervia

History of Cervia: the origins of the city of salt.

Cervia is known all over the world for the production of salt and its enchanting natural reserve, which provides the ideal habitat for rare species of animals. Its fascinating history is strictly interwoven with the salt culture and the great expansion the city experienced before becoming one of the most important cities in Romagna. Cervia's 8 thousand inhabitants are distributed over a total surface of 20 square kilometres.

The history of Cervia is strictly interwoven with salt production. During the Greek domination the city was situated few kilometres far from the coast, just in the heart of the salt pans. Between 1600 and 1700, Cervia was rebuilt a short distance from the sea according to a new town layout. The Salt Warehouses, which were able to contain over 100 thousand quintals of salt, date back to the same period.

Today, Cervia is one of the most appreciated holiday destinations of the Riviera Romagnola. Together with Milano Marittima, Pinarella and Tagliata, it attracts more than 4 million tourists a year. Cervia gathers over 400 accommodation facilities, 181 restaurants and pizzerias and 199 bars, discos and clubs. It also hosts glamorous shops, boutiques and shopping centres for those interested in going shopping even on holiday.

Cervia is the ideal holiday destination for families with children, since its 9-km-long beach of fine sand gives little guests the possibility to play in total safety. 236 bathing establishments and specialized entertainment agencies give tourists the possibility to take advantage of  high-quality services and facilities and to spend pleasant holidays based on utmost fun and relax. Cervia still retains the fascination of its ancient history and salt pans. Extending over 837 hectares, they produce 200 thousand quintals of salt a year and constitute a charming natural reserve which provides the ideal habitat for rare species of animals.