since 1965

General Informations

Bologna is a city like no other, undoubtedly among the most beautiful in Italy.
Its historic center, with its unmistakable "brick red" tones is one of the best conserved in Europe, in fact the second best preserved in Italy after Venice

For those seeing Bologna for the first time, its porticoes make the greatest impression. First built during the Middle Ages to expand housing inside the city walls for a growing population, Bologna's porticoes today cover more than 26 miles.
The world's longest portico is found in Bologna, composed of 666 arcades that wind more than two miles up the Colle della Guardia to the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Saint Luke.
Also characteristic of the city are its medieval towers, especially the 2 Torri that serve as Bologna's symbol: the Asinelli Tower (322 feet high) and the Garisenda Tower immortalized by Dante (158 feet high, leaning fully 10.56 feet off center).
The modern Fair District echoes the city's architectural traditions: its white towers, designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, serve as a counterpoint to the medieval towers of the town center.

At the very heart of the city is the main square, Piazza Maggiore, the quintessential place for strolling and meeting friends, surrounded by buildings that testify to the coexistence of many powers throughout the city's history: the Accursio Palace (now City Hall) and the Palace of the Podestà (formerly the seat of city government, but now destined to serve as a conference and exhibition center for Bologna 2000); the Notaries' Palace and the Palace of the Banchi (home of the guilds); and the Basilica of Saint Petronius, dedicated to the city's patron saint, which bears witness to the city's religious side.

The other symbol of Bologna is Neptune, the bronze statue by the sculptor Giambologna.
Pride of place within the city's artistic heritage goes to its religious buildings, which illustrate the role Christianity has played in the life of Bologna