The birth of Motor Valley: how it all began
Today, the Motor Valley of Emilia Romagna is known throughout the world as the beating heart of innovation and passion for engines. It is home to some of the most prestigious companies in the automotive and motorbike sectors, along with museums, racetracks and private collections that tell a story of talent, ingenuity and vision.
But how did Motor Valley come into being? This unique journey is the result of a combination of cultural, industrial and territorial factors that have made Emilia Romagna a true ‘land of motors’.
Industrial roots: a vocation for craftsmanship
The origins of Motor Valley date back to the early 20th century, when Emilia Romagna distinguished itself as a land of craftsmen and innovators. Thanks to a strong entrepreneurial spirit, this region became fertile ground for the development of small mechanical workshops that, over time, became internationally renowned companies.
The proximity of technical and university institutions, such as the University of Bologna, and the presence of skilled labour contributed to creating a favourable environment for innovation. The ingenuity of local craftsmen, combined with a passion for engines, gave rise to a unique tradition that would change the world of two and four wheels.
Ferrari: Enzo’s dream
A turning point in the history of the Motor Valley came in 1929, with the foundation of the Scuderia Ferrari by Enzo Ferrari in Modena. Originally founded as a racing team, Ferrari soon became a symbol of excellence, performance and luxury, with the production of the first sports cars in the 1940s.
The birth of Ferrari not only consolidated Modena as the nerve centre of the automotive industry, but also inspired the creation of other companies in the area. Even today, the name Ferrari is synonymous with passion and speed, attracting thousands of visitors to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello.
Lamborghini and Maserati: the competition that fuels innovation
In the 1960s, the Motor Valley saw the birth of another motoring icon: Lamborghini. Founded by Ferruccio Lamborghini in Sant’Agata Bolognese in 1963, the company was born with the aim of competing with Ferrari, offering extraordinary supercars such as the legendary Miura.
At the same time, Maserati, founded in 1914 in Bologna by the Maserati brothers, consolidated its reputation with elegant, high-performance cars, many of them destined for the world of racing.
This healthy competition between local companies only further stimulated the creativity and innovation of the region, transforming Emilia Romagna into a true cradle of motoring excellence.
Ducati: the pride of two wheels
Not only cars: the Motor Valley is also the realm of motorbikes thanks to brands such as Ducati, founded in Bologna in 1926. After starting with the production of electronic components, Ducati has developed into one of the most iconic names in the world of two wheels, with motorbikes that combine advanced technology, performance and unmistakable design.
The passion for racing has led Ducati to dominate in international competitions, with successes in MotoGP and the Superbike Championship, further strengthening the link between the territory and speed.
Circuits and museums: the Motor Valley today
In addition to the companies, the Motor Valley is home to some of the most famous circuits and museums not to be missed by enthusiasts:
Circuits
• Autodromo di Imola (Enzo and Dino Ferrari): one of the most famous racetracks in the world, the scene of Formula 1, Superbike and other major motorsport events.
• Misano Circuit (Marco Simoncelli): the realm of two wheels, dedicated to the memory of champion Marco Simoncelli, is the focus of MotoGP and Superbike events.
Museums
• Ferrari Museum (Maranello and Modena): a journey through the history of the Prancing Horse, with exhibits narrating the evolution of Ferrari cars.
• Ducati Museum (Bologna): a place dedicated to two-wheel enthusiasts, where they can discover the models that have made motorcycling history.
• Lamborghini Museum (Sant’Agata Bolognese): a celebration of the design and performance that have made Lamborghini a legend.
Curiosities about Motor Valley
• Unique concentration: Emilia Romagna is the only place in the world with such a concentration of luxury brands and motor sports within a few kilometres.
• Local passion: many of the employees of Motor Valley companies come from the territory, keeping the link with the local community alive.
• Private collections: in addition to the official museums, the Motor Valley is home to numerous private collections, which hold rare and unique models.
Conclusion: the beating heart of motors
The birth of Motor Valley is the story of an area that has managed to combine passion, ingenuity and tradition to become a worldwide symbol of motoring excellence.
Thanks to iconic brands, legendary circuits and initiatives such as the Exè Restaurant, the Motor Valley is not only a place for motor enthusiasts, but a unique destination that celebrates the best of Made in Italy.
Whether you are a lover of two or four wheels, the Motor Valley is waiting for you to live an unforgettable experience, where speed meets culture and gastronomy.