Parma Calcio 1913, based in Emilia-Romagna, is one of Italian football’s most beloved underdog stories.
Rising from provincial obscurity in the early 1990s, Parma built a golden era on talent, flair, and bold ambition, capturing the hearts of fans across Europe.
Known for nurturing world-class players, stunning cup runs, and resilience through financial crisis and rebirth, Parma today represents tradition, pride, and rebirth — a phoenix always ready to rise again.
Achievements
In the annals of European football, few stories are as thrilling and tragic as that of Parma A.C. during the 1990s and early 2000s.
Rising from provincial obscurity, Parma assembled one of the most talented squads of the era, conquered Europe, and captured the hearts of football romantics — only to later collapse under the weight of financial scandal.
The story of Parma is a cautionary tale, a legend, and a reminder of how beauty and ambition can both elevate and destroy.
The golden era in the 1990s and early 2000s, backed by the Parmalat corporation, really were incredible!
- 3× Coppa Italia: 1991–92, 1998–99, 2001–02
- 2× UEFA Cups: 1994–95, 1998–99
- 1× UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup: 1992–93
- 1× UEFA Super Cup: 1993
- 1× Supercoppa Italiana: 1999
- Multiple Serie B and C promotions, most recently from Serie C to Serie A in consecutive seasons (2015–2018) after bankruptcy
Club legends
- Gianluigi Buffon – Debuted at Parma; one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time.
- Hernán Crespo – Record signing at the time, prolific goal scorer, fan favourite.
- Fabio Cannavaro – World Cup-winning captain started at Parma.
- Lilian Thuram – Elegant, powerful defender, key part of the golden era.
- Gianfranco Zola – Sparkling playmaker and fan idol in the early 90s.
- Faustino Asprilla – Flamboyant Colombian forward and cult hero.
- Antonio Benarrivo, Dino Baggio, and Tomas Brolin also etched their names in club history.
Best Coaches
- Nevio Scala – Architect of the club’s first major success, led Parma to Cup Winners’ Cup glory in 1993.
- Carlo Ancelotti – Coached Parma to a second-place finish in Serie A (1996–97) and launched his own legendary career.
- Alberto Malesani – Guided Parma to their most successful season in 1998–99 (Coppa Italia & UEFA Cup double).
- Luigi Apolloni – Oversaw Parma’s phoenix rise from Serie D back to Serie B post-2015.
Rivalries & Friendships
Rivalries:
- Reggiana – The heated Derby dell’Emilia, driven by regional proximity and contrasting histories.
- Bologna – A less intense but meaningful local rivalry.
Friendships:
- Empoli and Napoli ultras have historically had a positive relationship with Parma fans.
Ultra groups
- Boys Parma 1977 – The most iconic and active ultra group.
- Others include Vecchia Guardia and Crociati, all based in the Curva Nord Matteo Bagnaresi.
- Known for a mix of left-leaning political views and passionate but peaceful support.
Ticket information
- Tickets can be bought online via Parma Calcio’s website or at the stadium on matchdays.
- Prices range from €15–30 for Curva Nord to €60+ for central Tribuna seats.
- Parma often offers special family, student, and local discounts, especially while they were in Serie B.
Stadio Ennio Tardini
- Capacity: Around 22,000
- Built in 1923, one of the oldest active stadiums in Italy.
- Located in central Parma, a short 15–20-minute walk from the train station.
- Named after a former club president, it has a classic feel with modern upgrades.
- Curva Nord is the heart of the passion and where the ultras gather.
Where to eat & drink before the game
Parma is a culinary capital, so pre-match food is a must:
- Trattoria del Tribunale – Near the stadium, top-tier local dishes (try the tortelli or Parma ham).
- Vecchia Parma – Excellent for pre-match aperitivo and wine.
- Bar Gianni – A go-to for fans, offering sandwiches, beer, and pre-match buzz.
- Ristorante Gallo d’Oro – Traditional Emilia-Romagna cuisine, great for groups.
- Piazza Garibaldi and Via Farini are lively fan meeting points before matches.
What it means to support Parma
Supporting Parma is about more than titles — it’s about loyalty, recovery, and heart.
From the euphoria of European nights to the heartbreak of bankruptcy, fans have remained steadfast, helping rebuild their club from the ground up in 2015.
Whether in Serie D or Serie A, Parma fans carry a quiet confidence, backed by a legacy that proves small clubs can dream big.
Supporting Parma means embracing history, appreciating resilience, and cherishing a team that — win or lose — reflects the soul of a proud, cultured city.
