A Guide to Bologna

The largest city in the Emilia-Romagna region in the north of Italy, Bologna is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city. Home to the oldest University in the world, the University of Bologna founded in 1088, Bologna hosts thousands of students and offers a rich social scene and active nightlife. Bologna is the perfect destination for anyone after cheap holidays in Europe.

Bologna also has one of the most well preserved historic centres in Italy with beautiful architecture, porticos (attractive covered walkways) and large variety of museums, churches and landmarks. Not to mention the exquisite culinary delights for which it is known the world over.

There are many exciting and interesting events taking place in Bologna throughout the year. The city hosts an impressive variety of all types of events; music, tradeshows, art, dance, culture, sports and markets. Some of the most well known events include; the Bologna festival (a classical music festival), Motorshow Bologna (an international car and motorcycle tradeshow) and Artefiera (one of the longest running art shows in Italy).

Some of the main tourist attractions in the city

Piazza Maggiore

One of the main gathering places in the city, Piazza Maggiore is often used for meetings and concerts. The square is made up of a complex of buildings with the Neptune Fountain (somewhat the symbol of Bologna) at the entrance.

The piazza is overlooked by the impressive Palazzo Communale building which is the seat of the municipal government and homes halls and chapels as well as the Museo Morandi, dedicated to the painter Giorgio Morandi.

On the eastern side of Piazza Maggiore you can find The Archiginnasio (today the town library) where you can admire thousands of engravings of students coats of arms.

Two Towers

Towers have long been important landmarks on the Bolognese landscape although today only a few remain. The Two Towers are a symbol of Bologna. The taller one is called Asinelli Tower and the smaller one is Garisenda Tower.

Palazzo Bevilacqua

Located in Via D’Azeglio, Palazzo Bevilacqua was built between 1477 and 1482 and is one of Bolognas most noteworthy buildings. Be sure to check out the attractive sculptures that decorate the internal courtyard.

Basilica di San Stefano

Originally a complex of 7 churches (today there are only 4 due to renovations carried out between 1870 and 1930), the Basilica di San Stefano is one of the most important religious and historical sites in Bologna.

For an alternative view of the city discover underground Bologna. Thanks to the “Amici delle Acque di Bologna” association you can now take guided tours to the various secret sights of the city including; underground locks, canals and streams and ancient relics that have been covered over time.

Bologna is famous for its food (La cucina Bolognese) and is often quoted as being “the food capital of Italy” so be sure to treat your taste buds to some local tortellini, mortadella and, of course, a plate of pasta with the world renowned Bolognese sauce.