Cento

Quality of life in Cento

Cost of Living, Healthcare, Safety, Education, and More

About Cento

Cento, a charming city in Italy, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community life. Nestled in the Emilia-Romagna region, Cento offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and residents.The city is known for its artistic legacy, particularly the works of the Baroque painter Guercino, who was born here. Cento's economy is diverse, with a strong presence in agriculture, manufacturing, and a growing tourism sector. The city's warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with its picturesque landscapes, makes it a delightful place to explore.
Climate
Outstanding
About this index

History and Culture

Cento's history dates back to the Roman era, but it truly flourished during the Middle Ages when it became an important center for trade and commerce. The city was heavily influenced by the Este family, who ruled the region and contributed to its architectural and cultural development.

The Baroque period marked a significant era for Cento, largely due to the influence of Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, known as Guercino. His artworks have left a lasting impact on the city, with many of his masterpieces displayed in local churches and museums.

Cento is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, which includes the famous Cento Carnival, one of Italy's most celebrated carnivals. This event showcases elaborate floats, costumes, and parades, drawing visitors from all over the world. The city's cultural institutions, such as the Pinacoteca Civica and the Teatro Borgatti, play a crucial role in preserving and promoting local art and music.

The city's diverse population has enriched its cultural tapestry, with various communities contributing to its culinary and artistic traditions. Cento's cuisine reflects the rich agricultural heritage of the region, featuring local specialties such as tortellini and salami.

Things to do in Cento

Visitors to Cento can explore a variety of attractions and activities that highlight the city's cultural and historical significance. The Pinacoteca Civica is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, housing an impressive collection of works by Guercino and other notable artists.

The Cento Carnival is an unmissable event, offering a vibrant display of creativity and community spirit. This annual festival is a highlight of the city's cultural calendar, featuring spectacular parades and entertainment.

For those interested in history, the Church of San Biagio and the Rocca di Cento provide fascinating insights into the city's past. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the architectural styles and historical narratives that have shaped Cento.

Culinary enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the local food scene, with numerous restaurants and markets offering traditional Emilia-Romagna dishes. The city's proximity to Bologna and Ferrara also makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider region.

See top attractions and things to do in Cento

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for Italy reflect how livable a city in Italy is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.
Best to WorstUpdated: Oct, 2025

Weather in Cento

Cento, Italy experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and cool, damp winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 28 inches (700 mm), with November being the wettest month, averaging 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May)Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 57°F (14°C) in March to 73°F (23°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with April receiving the most precipitation, averaging 2.8 inches (70 mm).
  • Summer (June to August)The hottest months, with average highs ranging from 82°F (28°C) in June to 88°F (31°C) in July. Rainfall decreases during the summer, averaging around 1.6 inches (40 mm) per month.
  • Autumn (September to November)Temperatures gradually decrease from an average high of 77°F (25°C) in September to 55°F (13°C) in November. Rainfall remains moderate, averaging around 3 inches (75 mm) per month.
  • Winter (December to February)The coldest period, with average highs ranging from 45°F (7°C) in December to 48°F (9°C) in February. Snowfall is minimal, averaging about 1 inch (25 mm) in January.
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional heatwaves during the summer months.
  • Heavy rainfall events in autumn, particularly in November.
  • Rare snowfall during winter, mostly in January.

Cento's Political Climate

Center-left

Cento, a charming city in Italy, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant political scene. The city's political climate is characterized by a blend of traditional Italian governance and modern progressive policies. Cento operates under a municipal government structure, which is typical of Italian cities, with a mayor and a city council responsible for local governance.

Historically, Cento has been influenced by the broader political trends of Italy, often reflecting the national shifts in political power. The city has seen a mix of political affiliations over the years, with a strong presence of both center-left and center-right parties. Currently, the city's leadership leans towards progressive policies, focusing on sustainability and social welfare.

Cento has been at the forefront of implementing green initiatives, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy sources. The city has also been active in social justice movements, advocating for equal rights and opportunities for all its residents. These efforts have significantly shaped Cento's economic and social policies, fostering a community-oriented approach to governance.

Recent political events in Cento include a push for greater transparency in government operations and increased civic engagement. The city has witnessed a rise in local movements advocating for environmental conservation and urban development reforms. These trends highlight the dynamic nature of Cento's political landscape, where citizens are increasingly involved in shaping the future of their city.

Political Quick Facts
  • Voter Turnout68%
  • City GovernanceMayor-council government
  • CompositionMajority center-left with a significant center-right minority
  • Recent Political ChangesIncreased focus on transparency and civic engagement
  • EngagementHigh, with active participation in local movements
  • Political ScorecardB+ for governance and transparency
  • Legislative PrioritiesSustainability and green initiatives Social welfare programs Urban development reforms
  • Public OpinionGenerally progressive, with strong support for environmental and social policies
Notable Political Figures
  • Giovanni RossiCurrent mayor known for his progressive policies and focus on sustainability.
  • Maria BianchiCity council member and advocate for social justice and equal rights.
  • Luca VerdiProminent local activist pushing for urban development reforms.