Bologna, historically known as "The Learned" (Dotta) and "The Fat" (Grassa) (it hosts the oldest university in the Western world and is famous for its rich culinary tradition), is a city that deserves a visit, also for strolling under its distinctive porticoes. Ask the B&B Hotel staff for advice; they'll suggest what to see in Bologna!
What are the 10 things to visit in Bologna?
- Asinelli Tower and Garisenda Tower: they are the symbols of the city of Bologna. Located in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, they were the connecting point between linking passages and had a defensive function.
- Piazza Maggiore: it is the true heart of Bologna, surrounded by historic buildings. Among these, Palazzo dei Banchi, actually a simple facade of 15 arches created to hide the market streets behind it, and Palazzo dei Notai. A few meters away, the Fountain of Neptune, built by Giambologna.
- Basilica of San Petronio: it is the most important Bolognese church. The organ, dating back to 1470, is still in use, the portal is by Jacopo della Quercia, and the Meridian Line is the longest in the world.
- Basilica of Santo Stefano: it is a complex of religious buildings, also known as "Seven Churches."
- Palazzo d’Accursio: its portal was created by Galeazzo Alessi. The interior houses an imposing cordonata staircase, a series of Halls and Chapels, and the municipal art collections.
- Palazzo del Podestà: it was the first seat of the city government. The four corner pillars under the bell tower form the Voltone del Podestà, which creates a peculiar acoustic effect (visitors can whisper to each other from opposite corners).
- Archiginnasio: the palace was commissioned by Cardinal Borromeo. It currently houses the Civic Library and the Anatomical Theater.
- Porticoes: extending for 40 km, they characterize the city of Bologna. They are predominantly made of masonry, with some wooden examples dating back to the 13th century. The widest is the 14th-century Quadriportico of the Basilica of S. Maria dei Servi.
- Sanctuary of San Luca: located on the Colle della Guardia, it is connected to the city center by a 4-kilometer long portico with 600 arches. From its panoramic terrace, you can admire Bologna and its hills.
- Canals: once used for water supply and commerce, they are partly navigable. The most important is the Moline canal, which flows through the streets of the historic center. In one of these, Via Piella, there is a building with a very evocative window overlooking the canals.
What to eat and where to stay in Bologna?
Bolognese cuisine, famous worldwide, includes among other delicacies egg pasta, plain or filled (tagliatelle, tortelloni, and tortellini), the sublime ragù, lasagna, gran bollito (boiled meats), cotoletta alla bolognese, and, naturally, mortadella.
An excellent and affordable solution for sleeping in the city is definitely the B&B Hotel in Bologna, with its comfortable rooms and services.