There are many famous cities in Italy. Nonetheless, Bologna has its own charm and authentic feel. The city has plenty to offer for tourists. Even though it has a low profile in comparison to other hotspots around the country.
Bologna is the capital city of Emilia-Romagna in Northern Italy. It is halfway in-between Florence, Venice and Milan. The population is 390,000, making it the most populous city in the region.
Bologna has many names. Most notably are “La Dotta” or “The Wise” for hosting the oldest university in Europe. This also translates into the culture of the city as being old and authentic. Moreover, “La Rossa” is sometimes used as a nickname. “The Red” is the accurate translation, due to its medieval red roofs. Lastly, “La Grassa” or “The Fat” refers to Bologna as the city rich in foods and a gourmet’s paradise.
Bolognia's Culture and Art
In the late 20th century, the European Union assigned Bologna along with 8 other cities as “The Capital of Culture“. Additionally, UNESCO assigned Bologna as “The City of Music” in 2006.
Bologna has plenty of beautiful things to offer. These include events, festivals, gastronomy, music, libraries and theaters. Most of the performances are with no charge and are performed in the town square.
Bologna was once home to Mozart. The legendary musician who was born in Salzburg and lived in Bologna while studying in Italy. Therefore, there is no powerful reason than this for you to attend the city’s festivals, musicals and events.
Bologna’s culture is a very active one among other cities in Europe. Moreover, as previously mentioned, Bologna has the 1st university in Europe, The University of Bologna. This institution was founded in 1088 and has one of the best educational reputations in the world. Today, people from all corners of the globe enroll in this prestigious and culturally rich university.
Bologna’s history and art heritage are on display in over 50 museums and libraries. In addition, visiting the city will give you the opportunity to admire the magnificent churches, basilicas and archaeologies.
Bologna's Food
We are going to start with Bologna’s food. Why?
The city is prominent for its culinary traditions. Therefore, it becomes one of the best places to sample dishes and a total foodie’s paradise. The city’s culinary includes its famous Bolognese sauce.
Moreover, the delicious homemade pastas, tortellini and Tagliatelle con Ragu are nowhere in the world near to what you would taste in this city. Additionally, Bologna is known for its salami and ham.
Bologna's Landmarks
Now we embark on the journey of the places to see and visit. These include:
-Climbing the two leaning towers of Garisenda and Asinelli. The famous architectures are medieval structures that have commanding views of the city.
-Visiting the fabulous churches that are plentiful around Bologna. Examples include Basilica Santuario di Santo Stefano, Basilica di San Domenico, Santuario di Madonna di San Luca and many others.
-Strolling the porticoes, the amazing arches that line Bologna’s streets. These beautiful structures cover you from both, the rain and the sun. These arches span roughly 45 km.
-Walking to Piazza del Nettuno and to Piazza Maggiore which is the main plaza. These are two of Bologna’s main squares.
Specifically, Piazza del Nettuno is brilliantly engineered. It has an ornate 16th-century fountain in the center. On top of that, it is surrounded by medieval buildings.
-Sampling the gelato! As Bologna has the best quality gelato, it’s a brilliant idea to taste flavors when visiting here. Moreover, it will be perfect during summer to beat the scorching heat of the sun.
In fact, the city has a world renowned university that specializes in gelato. How awesome is that! The Carpigiani Gelato University is the place to be for ice cream enthusiasts. Especially those looking to give their gelato making skills a notch. The university provides professional courses in gelato making. Buon Appetito!
