Are you looking to explore the history of Bologna through the ages? There are a number of historical destinations in Bologna including the time-honored buildings, monuments, palaces, and parks where you can learn about the glorious past of Bologna. The presence of these historical sites and museums will take you on a walk through Bologna ‘s rich history.
If you are willing to have an in-depth historical information about Bologna, we recommend that you take a wonderful guided tour to cover the major historical attractions. Also, check the opening and closing time for each so that you can organize your time. Make sure that you go through the complete list of historical places in Bologna for a great trip!
Top Historical Places in Bologna
Let's witness the history of Bologna with these top historical places - monuments and landmarks:
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The Two Towers
(1866 Votes)
If Bologna was to be called the Manhattan of medieval era, Torri degli Asinelli e Garisenda would definitely be the twin towers. Critically located at the entrance of the city, the towers displayed the family’s prestige and served military functions back then. Built in the 11th century Tower of Asinelli is over 97 metres and the tallest in Bologna. Climb a hefty 498 steps only to find yo...Read more -
Fontana Del Nettuno
(1845 Votes)
The grand statue in the Piazza Maggiore cannot go unnoticed! Designed by Jean de boulone also known as Giambologna, he razed the entire block to make the fountain. It beautifully displays a bronze figure of Lord Neptune along with four angels at the steps signifying the river of 4 continents: Amazon, Dandu, Nile and Ganges. The fountain once signified the power of the pope who ruled just like ...Read more -
Archiginnasio Of Bologna
(1365 Votes)
Bologna was the first European town to have a university and this being the first university of bologna brings you to the intellectual side of this red city. Though heavily destroyed by bombing the Archiginnasio was restored to its present form and is now the seat of the Municipal library. As in most of the Bolognese architecture there is a portico at the entrance which opens to the main build...Read more -
Sanctuary Of The Madonna Di San Luca
(799 Votes)
In the outskirts of bologna is this tranquil church on the hilltop which houses representation of the Virgin Mary transported from the Middle East to bologna in the 12th century. The basilica is connected to the city through the world’s longest portico; resting on 666 arches and starting from Piazza di Porta Saragozza- stunning architecture! The place is easily accessible from city throu...Read more -
Compianto Sul Cristo Morto
(1315 Votes)
The Lamentation over the Dead Christ or Compianto sul Cristo Morto are a set of terracotta sculptures housed in the church of Santa Maria Della Vita. The work shows seven life size figures, with dead Christ at the centre with his head resting on the pillow. Around him we have two Marys filled with pain of her loss and the distress displayed through her torn clothes. After which we have the Mad...Read more -
A remarkably educational the Museo della Storia di Bologna (Museum of the history of Bologna) is very well focused on the history of the red city. Behind the ancient facade is a courtyard housing a transparent rectangular structure connecting the two floors and serves as an additional exhibition space. The structure of the museum is divided The painted city The Tower of Tim Bologna in anc...Read more -
Santa Maria Della Vita Bologna
(1255 Votes)
Wrapped away in via calvature is the church of Santa Maria della Vita housing bologna’s most exquisite work of art. Known for Baroque architecture and the terracotta sculptures, the church will leave you amazed. Founded in 13th century by Battuti of S. Maria della Vita the church is a part of a sanctuary with a portico at the entrance and elegant and breezy interiors which takes you to a...Read more -
Palazzo Fava
(940 Votes)
The breathtaking museum is nestled in a Renaissance mansion given over by the Fava family in their will. Spread over 2600 sq. m it is regularly used as an exhibition centre; include works from the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio in Bologna and other organisations. What makes Palazzo Fava so attractive are- The cycle of paintings, The Argonautica and the stories of Medea in Jason's room. A very sk...Read more -
Museo Di Palazzo Poggi
(243 Votes)
Unlike all other art and architectural centric museums in Bologna, the museum of palazzo poggi covers numerous intriguing topics like the military sciences, zoology, astronomy and genecology etc. Built in 1560, the building is a former house of Alessandro Poggi and Giovanni Poggi. In 1714 it became the institute of sciences with the addition of tower of observatory (1725) and the library in (17...Read more -
The church of St. Francis is beautiful example of Gothic-Romanesque architecture, being the first example of French-gothic style in Italy. Structured with a remarkably high facade and interiors housing marvellous statues in white marble the church is as charming as it can get! To the right of the facade are a convent and a cloister, dedicated to San Francis. The cloister is a very pleasing atmo...Read more -
With blatantly bold imagery and lively colours this church showcases the life and times of St Cecilia along with her husband Valeriano. If your visit to Bologna is a short one you would not want to miss the church of St. Cecilia- this is undoubtedly a hidden gem! Found in the year 1267, the church flaunts exquisite Renaissances art work along with 15th century architecture. The façade di...Read more -
Basilica Di San Domenico
(40 Votes)
Basilica of San Domenico is a lovely monument of medieval culture and architecture. Try reading the history behind the basilica before paying it a visit. You will enjoy the time spent there after you have some background information. The artwork at Basilica of San Domenico is indeed marvellous and speaks volumes of the artisans during those days. The interiors were refurnished in the 18th centu...Read more -
A lively pedestrian hub and the starting point for everything Bologna! In the medieval ages Maggiore was the seat of city government and was acquired to make a market place, because of which a number of buildings around the square were taken down giving us this massive space. Piazza Maggiore till date holds the same importance as it did in the 13th century. Surrounded by some of the most impor...Read more -
Basilica Di San Petronio
(1481 Votes)
This gigantic church is the 6th largest in Europe, which started its construction in 1390 only to be officially blessed in 1954. Dedicated to Petronio, city’s patron saint and bishop back in 5th century. Had things would have gone as planned the Basilica would have been the largest in the world, however the pope did not like the idea of a church larger than St. Peters. This magnificent b...Read more -
Parco Di Villa Angeletti
(99 Votes)
If you are in Bologna and looking to spend an evening out leisurely, the Parco Di Villa Angeletti can be a good choice. You can easily spend some two-odd hours here, exploring the park, where you will be bestowed with the sight of a structure of a manmade ant, almost life-size! There is a brilliant amphitheater like seating region too, that witnesses several events of the city. The parks sprawl...Read more