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What are the top 20 places to visit in Bologna Italy 🇮🇹?



Photo by Bogdan Dada on Unsplash

Bologna is a historic city in northern #Italy and the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region. Here are some interesting facts about Bologna:

  1. University of Bologna: Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is considered the oldest university in the world that is still in operation. It has a rich history and has been a center of learning for centuries.

  2. Porticoes: Bologna is famous for its extensive network of porticoes. These covered walkways stretch for kilometers throughout the city, providing shade and shelter. The longest portico, the Portico di San Luca, leads uphill to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

  3. Two Towers: The Two Towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, are iconic symbols of Bologna. The taller of the two, the Asinelli Tower, is open to the public and offers panoramic views of the city.

  4. Culinary Capital: Bologna is often referred to as the "fat" or "red" city, not just because of its red-tiled roofs but also due to its rich culinary tradition. It is the birthplace of Bolognese sauce (ragù) and famous for its fresh pasta, particularly tagliatelle and tortellini.

  5. Architectural Heritage: The city boasts a wealth of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Piazza Maggiore is the main square, surrounded by important buildings such as the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo d'Accursio.

  6. Towers of Bologna: In addition to the Two Towers, Bologna once had a much larger number of towers, which were built by wealthy families in the medieval period. While many towers have been lost over the centuries, some still remain.

  7. Archiginnasio: The Archiginnasio of Bologna is a historic building that once housed the University of Bologna. It is known for its impressive anatomical theater and the Archiginnasio Library, which holds a vast collection of manuscripts.

  8. Museums: Bologna has several museums, including the National Gallery of Art, the Archaeological Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art. These institutions showcase the city's cultural and artistic heritage.

  9. Twin Cities: Bologna is a sister city to several other cities around the world, including Cincinnati in the United States. This relationship has historical roots, as many Italian immigrants settled in Cincinnati, leading to cultural exchanges between the two cities.

  10. Music and Cinema: Bologna hosts various cultural events, including the Bologna Festival, an international classical music event. The city is also renowned for the Il Cinema Ritrovato film festival, focusing on the history of cinema and the restoration of classic films.

Bologna's combination of historical significance, culinary delights, and cultural richness make it a fascinating destination for visitors.


Here are the top 20 places to visit in #Bologna:


Piazza Maggiore:

Overview: The main square of Bologna, surrounded by important buildings such as the Basilica di San Petronio, Palazzo d'Accursio, and the Neptune Fountain.


Basilica di San Petronio:

Overview: A massive church dedicated to the patron saint of Bologna, featuring a stunning interior with artistic masterpieces.


Two Towers (Due Torri):

Overview: Symbolic towers of Bologna, Asinelli and Garisenda, offering panoramic views of the city from the top.


Archiginnasio of Bologna:

Overview: The historic university building, housing the Anatomical Theatre and a rich library.


National Art Gallery of Bologna (Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna):

Overview: A renowned art gallery featuring an extensive collection of Italian Renaissance paintings.


Santo Stefano Basilica:

Overview: Also known as the Complex of Seven Churches, it is a unique architectural complex with a rich history.


Portico di San Luca:

Overview: A 3.8 km (2.4 miles) covered walkway leading up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, providing panoramic views of Bologna.


Museo Civico Archeologico (Archaeological Civic Museum):

Overview: A museum showcasing artifacts from Bologna's ancient history, including Etruscan and Roman remains.


Palazzo Comunale (City Hall):

Overview: A historic building on Piazza Maggiore housing the city government, featuring beautiful frescoes and a panoramic terrace.


Mercato di Mezzo:

Overview: Bologna's oldest market area, with a lively atmosphere and a variety of food stalls, restaurants, and shops.


Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca:

Overview: A hilltop sanctuary with a revered icon of the Madonna, reached by the iconic Portico di San Luca.


Fontana del Nettuno (Neptune Fountain):

Overview: A beautiful fountain in Piazza Maggiore, featuring a bronze statue of Neptune surrounded by mythological figures.


MAMbo - Museo d'Arte Moderna di Bologna:

Overview: Bologna's modern art museum, showcasing contemporary and modern art exhibitions.


Bologna University Botanical Gardens (Orto Botanico di Bologna):

Overview: A peaceful botanical garden associated with the University of Bologna, featuring a diverse collection of plants.


Palazzo dell'Archiginnasio:

Overview: The historic seat of the University of Bologna, known for its impressive anatomical theatre and rich history.


Bologna Cathedral (Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro):

Overview: The main cathedral of Bologna, featuring a beautiful interior and an archaeological site beneath.


Civic Museum of Ancient Art (Museo Civico d'Arte Antica):

Overview: A museum housed in Palazzo Pepoli Campogrande, showcasing medieval and Renaissance art.


Bologna City Museum (Museo della Storia di Bologna):

Overview: A museum narrating the history of Bologna through multimedia exhibits and interactive displays.


Palazzo Fava:

Overview: A historic palace hosting temporary art exhibitions and cultural events.


Villa Ghigi Park:

Overview: A peaceful park on the hills of Bologna, offering a relaxing escape with walking paths and panoramic views.


These attractions represent the historical, cultural, and culinary richness of Bologna, making it a delightful destination for exploration and discovery.


For Hotels, Flights, and Car Rental check out Kayak.com




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