Discover Bologna in 8 Buildings

Centuries of history in the streets of Italy

By Google Arts & Culture

Palazzo D'Accursio

The Palazzo D'Accursio in the centre of Bolgona is one of the city's most important buildings. It has been the seat of the municipal authority since 1336. It has been extended over the centuries, and tells a story of changing architectural fashions.

Basilica di San Petronio

This basilica is the oldest and largest in the city, and dedicated to its patron saint, Petronius, who was the bishop of Bologna in the 5th Century. The new white marble facade was started by Giacomo Ranuzzi in 1538, but has never been finished.

The Quadrilatero

Leaving behind the the Piazza Maggiore, step into the Quadrilatero. This has been a commercial corner of the city since the Medieval era, explore the narrow streets filled with historic shops and market stalls selling fruit, fish, herbs, and pasta.

Due Torri

There may have been up to 100 towers in the city, but the Due Torri (Two Towers) of Bologna are amongst the last that remain today. They have become an emblem of the city, and a must-visit attraction for everyone who's not afraid of heights.

Casa Buratti

This pink building in the old Jewish Ghetto of the city was the site of the Synagogue between 1586 and 1593. The building was largely rebuilt in 1955 after being damaged during the Second World War.

Palazzo Hercolani

You may have already noticed, but many of the streets of Bologna are lined with porticoes. These covered walkways have allowed people to stay out of the busy and messy streets since the middle ages.

Porta Saragozza

One of Bologna's 12 original city gates, built in the 13th Century and heavily renovated in 1859. The Porta Saragozza was considered a secondary gate, until 1674 when the road to the Sanctuary of San Luca was built

Sanctuary of San Luca

The Sanctuary of San Luca, located on Colle della Guardia, has been the symbol of Bologna as well as a place of religious worship for centuries. You can reach the sanctuary by following the 4km long portico from the Porta Saragozza, right to the top of the hill.

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