Bologna is an elegant and charming Italian city. Although it may not be a tourist hotspot like Venice and Rome, the city has a unique vibe that caters to the hearts of traveling historians and adventurers. Bologna grew in prominence during medieval times. Over the centuries, the city has blossomed while maintaining its original authenticity, ancient flare, and classic design. If you want to travel back to medieval times the next time you’re in Italy, visit these five places in Bologna for a blast from the past.
Visit Bologna’s Amazing Towers
During the Middle Ages, finding majestic towers in Europe was very common. In Bologna, more than 100 towers were built; earning it the nickname “the city of many towers”. They were used as a defense system to safeguard the city from invaders and over time became a symbol of great power and status in Italy. Only 20 towers remain standing in Bologna. The most famous are the Two Towers or Due Torri. Named after two prominent Italian families, the Two Towers are sacred landmarks in Bologna and a meeting place for tourists and locals.
Explore Piazza Maggiore
The Piazza Maggiore was the center of culture and local life during medieval times in Bologna. It was built during the 13th century and, in the mid-1800s, was the city’s main marketplace. Today, travelers can get a well-rounded view of medieval architecture by visiting Piazza Maggiore. Many of the buildings surrounding the square were built during the Middle Ages. So this is a great place to visit and take in the sights. Travelers can see the Basilica of San Petronio, the Palazzo Re Enzo, the Palazzo D’Accursio, and other ancient structures all in one place.
Shop At The Quadrilatero
The oldest market in Bologna, the Quadrilatero is a real treat for tourists. Here you can experience local life, shop with food vendors, and take in the ancient architecture surrounding the market. The Quadrilatero runs down a long, narrow alleyway not far from the Piazza Maggiore. The market has seen generations of craftsmen, farmers, and artisans selling their goods throughout the year. This is a great place for an evening stroll and one of the best places to find authentic, Italian street food in Bologna.
See The Old Synagogue At Casa Buratti
During the 1500s, Roman Catholic laws from the Pope prohibited Jewish citizens from living outside of mandated neighborhoods in Bologna. Those Jewish Ghettos became the center of the Jewish community and travelers can visit the neighborhood today to get an idea of what life was like during those unfortunate times. One of the most well-known landmarks in this neighborhood is the Casa Buratti. The pink house served as the synagogue for the Jewish community between 1586 and 1593.
Check Out The Sanctuary Of San Luca
The Sanctuary of San Luca is the best place to go for panoramic views of Bologna. It is one of the most important buildings in the city and a symbol of pride and holiness. The grand structure is located on Colle della Guardia and connects to the center of the city by the longest portico in the world. In 2021, the Sanctuary Of San Luca was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travelers can visit the famous building to see the 600 archways of the portico and marvel at the wonders of medieval architecture.