Cremona SBK 2024: destination guide
Cremona Circuit will host for the first time a WorldSBK Round and will have the honor to be bestowed with the official name of Acerbis Italian Round. In this way, this ‘young’ track will be the seventh Italian track that host a WorldSBK race.
If you are planning to travel to Cremona WorldSBK, we have the perfect guide for you and very good news: there’s plenty to watch and see, plus is easy to access by land or air. Let’s discover what Cremona WorldSBK can offer us.
Cremona WorldSBK: a new circuit to discover
It’s the first time WorldSBK hits Cremona but not the first ever Round disputed in the Italian Lombardy region (capital at Milano). In 22 occasions WorldSBK raced at the venerable Autodromo Nazionale di Monza; ‘The Temple of Speed’ hold a WorldSBK Round in 1990, 1992, 1993 and from 1995 up to 2013.
But the return of WorldSBK to Lombardy will be very different this time, as Cremona is a very different track from the unique and old Monza. Cremona has a relative short history, being created in 2011 by the track designer Jarno Zaffelli, which is known for making big remodulations of famous tracks like Misano or Zandvoort among others.
Originally, the track was 3450 metres long, but was expanded to 3712 meters after a notable change in the first sector; this added two corners to the track, going from 11 to 13 turns. Now, with the coming of WorldSBK, Cremona has made a new remodulation to extend a few more meters: the actual length is 3792 meters and is the result of slight changes in the last sector and addition of spectators’ facilities and grandstands.
The layout of Cremona Circuit is characterized by its flatness and some corners with long radius that will demand a lot of traction and tire management to the riders and teams. As it’s a new layout and Cremona Circuit hasn’t hold any national championship there aren’t proper time references but is expected to be around the 1’30 mark for the Superbike.
Traveling to Cremona WorldSBK
Cremona Circuit is located at San Martino del Lago, a little town 25km east of the proper Cremona city. With less than a thousand habitants, can be a little difficult to find lodging at this small village and the ones surrounding. Nevertheless, apart from Cremona, the track is also close to two big and well know Italian cities: Padua and Parma, both at 40km of the track.
Situated in the Po Valley, the net of highways in this northern part of Italy is big, so is easy to arrive in a road trip. Arriving by plane is also easy, as the track is at only one hour distance from three relevant airports: Milano, Bologna and Verona.
Exploring Padua and Parma: Gems of Northern Italy
Padua and Parma, two captivating cities in Northern Italy, each offer unique experiences and rich cultural heritage.
Padua is a historic city renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and significant landmarks. Founded over 3,000 years ago, Padua boasts a wealth of architectural and artistic treasures. One of the city's highlights is the Scrovegni Chapel, famous for its breathtaking frescoes by Giotto, considered masterpieces of Renaissance art. Another must-visit is the Basilica of Saint Anthony, a grand structure dedicated to one of Italy's most revered saints. The city's Botanical Garden, one of the oldest in Europe, provides a serene escape with its diverse plant species and historical significance. To taste local life, explore Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori, where you can enjoy charming cafés and bustling markets.
Parma, on the other hand, is celebrated for its gastronomic delights and elegant architecture. Known worldwide for its Parmesan cheese and Prosciutto di Parma, the city offers a culinary journey that reflects its rich traditions. Visit the Parma Cathedral and the adjoining Baptistery to marvel at their stunning Romanesque architecture.
The Teatro Regio, an opulent opera house, is a cultural gem where you can enjoy world-class performances. Stroll through the Palazzo della Pilotta, a grand palace housing several museums, including the National Gallery of Parma. Take advantage of the opportunity to relax in Parco Ducale, a beautiful park that offers a peaceful retreat in the city's heart.
Both Padua and Parma are vibrant cities that offer visitors a blend of historical grandeur and modern charm, making them perfect destinations for anyone exploring Northern Italy.
Stradivarius: Cremona's Timeless Craft
Cremona is renowned for its tradition of crafting string instruments, especially the Stradivarius violins, which are considered the finest in the world. Antonio Stradivari, who worked in the city between the late 17th and early 18th centuries, perfected the art of making violins, violas, and cellos. His instruments are known for their exceptional sound, tonal balance, and exquisite craftsmanship.
Over the centuries, the secrets behind the construction of Stradivarius instruments, such as the type of wood or the varnish formula, have been the subject of extensive study but remain largely a mystery. This has made Stradivarius violins exclusive and highly valuable, with prices reaching millions at auctions.
Cremona continues to be a center of excellence in instrument making. In 2012, UNESCO recognized the "Traditional violin craftsmanship in Cremona" as an intangible cultural heritage, ensuring the preservation of this important artisanal tradition for future generations.
Torrone (Italian nougat) of Cremona: A Sweet Tradition
Cremona is also famous for its torrone (Italian nougat), a sweet that has been an integral part of its culinary heritage. This traditional Italian confection, especially popular during the holidays, is made with simple yet high-quality ingredients like almonds, honey, and sugar.
Cremona’s torrone is distinguished by its unique flavor and crispy texture. The traditional recipe involves mixing toasted almonds with honey and sugar, which is then cooked to achieve the perfect consistency. The result is a sweet that combines the sweetness of honey with the toasted flavor of almonds, creating an irresistible taste experience.
This torrone is not only a delight for the palate but also a reflection of local craftsmanship. The preparation techniques have been passed down through generations, preserving the product's authenticity. During the Christmas season and other celebrations, Cremona's torrone becomes a cherished gift and a symbol of the region's rich culinary tradition.
Today, visitors to Cremona can enjoy this sweet treat in various local pastry shops, where the artisanal tradition that makes torrone, a timeless delight is kept alive.