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The home of Ferrari - Maranello |
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| Italy |
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As you drive into Maranello, it appears very much like any other industrial town in this part of Italy. Yet, you can't help but think to yourself, it houses some of the most skilled craftsman, engineers and technicians in the world.
Then you hear the shriek of an engine in the distance, being tested to its full potential at the Fiorano circuit – the Ferrari test track in
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Maranello itself. You get a sense that you're arriving somewhere very special indeed. And then, with almost no warning at all, you come across the hallowed gates of the Ferrari factory itself. You pause for a moment, reflect, and pay your respects – it hits you that this is anything but an ordinary place. Within those gates, which have stayed largely the same for many decades, the most beautiful, coveted and exquisite creations known to man are conceived and then crafted. |
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Mere mortals are not allowed into the factory however, so you have to make do with a visit to the Galleria Ferrari – the Ferrari museum not far from the factory gates. The Galleria claims to be 'keepers of the myth.' Fortunately or unfortunately, the myth is far too strong to be housed under just one roof. The Galleria is definitely worth a visit though, as it does give you a sense of the spirit and history of this legendary marque. Other than showcasing some magnificent cars from its past, as well as some of the numerous trophies amassed by their race victories, it also has a small theater of sorts that plays some very evocative videos with rare factory footage dating back a few decades. |
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The hallowed gates of the Ferrari factory |
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You can then have lunch at the Ristorante Cavallino, opposite the factory, where you can almost feel the presence of Ferrari founder, Enzo Ferrari. You can imagine the Il Commendatore, as he was known, devise strategy for his next race over a bowl of linguini. His unfaltering vision was so strong that the individuality of the company bearing his name lives on 20 years after his death.
This is a surreal experience. The Ferrari store awaits you across the street from the restaurant as you seek salvation. And finally, if you're really lucky, you'll see something special out on the Ferrari test track. We were fortunate enough to be among the first few people in the world to see the Ferrari FXX – then referred to as the Super Enzo – testing at Fiorano on this memorable summer day in 2005.
Visiting Maranello is about trying to take in as much of the place as possible. It's about attempting to live the life of those lucky few who get to call the Ferrari factory their workplace and Maranello their home – if only for a few hours of a single day. |
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