Guide to Bologna

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A13 - HIGHWAY Via Marco Polo Via Ferrarese Bologna / Taranto RAILWAY Via Emilia Ponente STATION

Via P. Togliatti Via Matteotti Via A.Saffi Porta Lame V.le Masini Viale Stalingrado A1 - HIGHWAY Viale Piazza A13 - HIGHWAY V.le Gandhi Silvani Maggiore Via S. Donato Bologna / Taranto Milano / Napoli TEATRO Porta S. Felice COMUNALE TANGENZIALE NORD Via Tolmino Via STADIO PALADOZZA Indipendenza DALLARA Porta S. Vitale netplan © netplanVia A.Costa Via S.© Stefano netplan Via G. Masserenti Via Porretana V.le Aldini CASALECCHIO EXIT Via Via Mazzini Via Pietro Nenni Saragozza Porta S. Mamolo Viale Porta S. Stefano Via Don Sturzo Panzacchi Via Murri Via Emilia Levante

Via degli Orti

Via Emilia

A1 - AUTOSTRADA

LAME EXIT (n.5) Via Emilia Aeroporto ARCOVEGGIO EXIT BOLOGNA - BORGO PANIGALE

BORGO PANIGALE EXIT

A13 - HIGHWAY Via Marco Polo Via Ferrarese Bologna / Taranto RAILWAY Via Emilia Ponente STATION

Via degli Orti

Via Emilia

A1 - AUTOSTRADA © 2005 Netplan srl. All rights reserved. All material on this document is © Netplan. © Netplan - Internet solutions for tourism Photos courtesy of: APT Servizi, Regione Emilia Romagna, Comune di Bologna. THE BOLOGNA CITY GUIDE 1

Summary

THINGS TO KNOW

3 Getting there 4 History and culture

THINGS TO SEE 5 Churches 7 Museums 9 History building and monuments 11 Secret Bologna

THINGS TO TRY

13 Eating and Drinking 14 Shopping 15 Hotels and lodgings

THINGS TO EXPERIENCE

16 Events 18 La Dolce Vita

ITINERARIES

19 Modena and the land of Ferrari 21 Ferrara and the Po Delta 32

to the Bologna-Arcoveggio exit. The historical families. Peace came with the reign of the center of Bologna is a pedestrian zone Bentivoglio, which however marked the from 7:00am to 8:00pm every day including progressive domination of the popes over the weekends and holidays, only authorized city. Bologna lost its sovereignty in 1506 and vehicles are allowed. was governed by one of the Pope’s cardinals You need to show a copy of your hotel for two centuries. reservation to be able to drive to a hotel in The dominion of the Papal State was the pedestrian zone. Once you get to the interrupted in 1796 when Napoleon’s army hotel you can get a pass which allows you entered the city. The Church’s assets and to drive and park in the pedestrian zone. property were expropriated and Bologna was The pass needs to include the license plate transformed from an industrial city to a large number and date, time and hotel stamp to agricultural province. The restoration of the be valid. Congress of Vienna in 1815 returned the city to the Church, but liberal ideas had already begun to gain ground. The city actively participated in the Risorgimento fighting and became part of the new Italian state in 1859. Between the 19th and 20th centuries European town planning models took over: the city was embellished Bologna: Piazza Maggiore Bologna: Teatro Anatomico with public gardens and wide boulevards. Today Bologna has become a great industrial Bologna is conveniently located in relation to The first inhabitants of Bologna date back to and cultural center, so much so that it earned many other Italian cities. It can be reached the Iron Age (10th century BC). The Etruscans the title European Capital of Culture in quickly from Florence, Venice and Milan and lived in Bologna (called Felsina at that time) 2000. is not too far from Rome or Turin. from the end of the 6th century to middle of the 4th and then it passed to the Gauls. By plane: “G. Marconi” Airport is located 6 km The Romans defeated the Gauls in 191 BC, from the city and is connected to the center founding the colony of Bonomia along the Via by frequent shuttle bus service. Many airlines Emilia. Originally inhabited by 3000 colonists, fly out of the airport connecting the city with during the imperial age it reached 10,000 all major Italian and European destinations. inhabitants. Traces of the Roman city can be seen under By train: Bologna is one of the main Italian Via Rizzoli and Sala Borsa, while numerous train junctions, and is easy to reach from all artifacts from all ancient epochs are displayed parts of Italy. See the Trenitalia website for at the Museo Archeologico. train schedules. During the Middle Ages Bologna became a free commune, its golden century was the 13th: By car: if coming from Florence, take the during this period the city developed greatly A1 freeway to Bologna-Casalecchio and then thanks to the university (the oldest in Europe), follow the signs for the center (centro). trade and the political backing of the Church; Coming from Milan, take the A1 freeway to at the end of the 13th century Bologna was Bologna-Borgo Panigale and then follow the one of the top 10 cities of Europe. signs for the center (centro). From Venice or During the 14th and 15th centuries the Padua take the A13 freeway to the Bologna- city was fought over by the Church and the Arcoveggio exit. For those coming from Rimini Viscounts (noble family from Milan) and was and the Adriatic coast take the A14 freeway gripped by civil wars between the aristocratic

artwork, including the Annuciazione by Lodovico Carracci and Giunta Pisano. The square in front of the church. The church was Lodovico Carracci (1619) on the high altar main sight is definitely the S. Domenico built in the Middle Ages, but was rebuilt in its and the frescoes in the rectory and apse. Chapel: richly frescoed it contains a marble current form in the 15th and 16th centuries The Cathedral Treasure, is also worth arch with the remains of the saint. This arch by the Olivetani monks. visiting, a extensive collection of furnishings is considered one of the most important The Renaissance facade is decorated with a and religious objects of a great artistic value, sculptures of Italian art, sculpted by famous beautiful marble portal by Baldassarre Peruzzi from the 15th to 20th centuries. artists like Nicolò Pisano and Michelangelo. (1522). The interior is formed of two floors The wood chorus by Fra’Damiano da Bergamo and decorated with valuable paintings and Santo Stefano Piazza S. Stefano is the old (1528-51) is also not to be missed, his sculptures from the 16th and 17th centuries. heart of Bologna. This enchanting triangular contemporaries called it the eighth wonder One of the most charming parts is the square contains the most sacred spot of of the world! octagonal cloister, from the end of the 16th Bologna, the Sette Chiese complex. century, decorated with famous paintings of These churches (there are actually four) date Santa Maria dei Servi. This extremely the Carracci school. back to the 10th - 13th centuries forming a beautiful Gothic church, built between 1386 symbolic reconstruction of the Passion of and 1437, is preceded by an airy square Christ. portico. The church of Crocifisso (on the right) The Gothic inspired interior is divided into contains a 1019 crypt and precious works of three naves. Numerous works of art can be art; the church of Calvario (in the center) is seen, including the Madonna in trono by a reproduction of Christ’s tomb and contains Cimabue (13th century), the marble altar

Bologna: San Giacomo Maggiore the remains of San Petronio, patron saint of piece on the high altar (1558-61), the 14th Bologna; the church of Santi Vitale e Agricola century frescoes by Vitale da Bologna and San Petronio The Basilica di San Petronio, (on the left) is the oldest, marvelous in its valuable paintings by the Bolognese school in dedicated to the city’s patron saint, is bare simplicity, and holds the sarcophagi of the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. the biggest and most important church in two Bolognese martyrs, as well as the remains Bologna. of the previous Byzantine constructions. San Giacomo Maggiore In the heart of the Its construction was started in 1390 and The Romanesque kiosk with dual loggias is not university area sits this church built between continued until the 1600’s, when the roof and to missed, one of the most superb Romanesque 1267 and 1315 by the hermit monks of S. apse were completed. creations in Emilia Romagna. Agostino and rebuilt at the end of the 15th The facade has remained unfinished. The century. main portal contains the Stories of the Old San Francesco The church was built in the The single nave interior contains many and New Testament, sculpted by Jacopo della 13th century, the first example of French remarkable works of art. The most admired Quercia, between 1425 and 1438. The solemn inspired Gothic style in Italy. The most striking work is the Cappella Bentivoglio, one of and majestic interior is divided into three feature of the exterior is the apse part, with the major creations of the early Bolognese naves supported by ten pillars. Twenty-two its famous arches and two elegant Gothic Renaissance. chapels open off the side naves. One contains bell towers. Three monumental 13th century Walking along the portico which flanks the an organ which still works built around 1470: tombs sit at the foot of the apse. The marble Church you will find the entrance of the the oldest in the world still in use. altar piece stands out in the grandiose interior Oratorio di Santa Cecilia, an old church on the high altar. The walls contain various which houses the most important picture San Pietro This is the cathedral of the city. tombs including that of Pope Alexander V. cycle of the Bolognese Renaissance, created Its origins date back to the 10th century, but by the best masters at the beginning of the it was rebuilt after a terrible fire in 1141. San Domenico The church, built upon the 16th century. Nevertheless, the original Romanesque-Gothic death of the saint 1221, overlooks one of layout underwent a profound transformation the most beautiful squares of Bologna. If the San Michele in Bosco This impressive in the 17th and 18th centuries, which gave it exterior seems simple, the interior instead is architectural complex stands in one of the its current Baroque appearance. filled with magnificent works of art, including most scenic spots of Bologna. There is a The interior is home to a lot of interesting paintings by Guercino, Luca Cambiaso, wonderful view of the city and plains from the

Morandi Museum Entirely dedicated to Ducati Museum An extensive exhibition tells • University Museums In addition to Palazzo Bologna painter Giorgio Morandi, the museum the story of the Ducatis from the 1940’s to Poggi, the entire university area is home to contains a collection of 250 works, including present, including antique motorcycles, various scientific museums, demonstrating paintings, watercolors, drawings and etchings. billboards and accessories. Telephone: 051 the importance of Bologna in the international Hours: Monday-Sunday: came - 6pm Closed: 6413259 Hours: by reservation - Closed: knowledge scene. Monday Sunday and holidays These museums revolve around anthropology, zoology, anatomy, palaeontology, geology, Museo Civico Archeologico (Archaeological Palazzo Poggi Museums The building dates physics, mineralogy, botany as well as City Museum) Traces the development of the back to the end of the 15th century, when containing one of the oldest botanical gardens city from prehistoric times to the Etruscans it was acquired by the Poggi family, who in Europe. up to the Roman age. transformed and expanded it. The museum also has one of the most The interiors were decorated with powerful extensive ancient Egypt sections in Europe. murals, which tell of the personality of Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 9.00am - 6:30pm; Giovanni Poggi, who ordered them painted. Sunday: 10.00 - 18.30 The building became the home of the Istituto delle Scienze in the 18th century, Museo Civico Medioevale (City Museum with the purpose of housing all the scientific of Middle Ages) Contains remains from the knowledge of the time in one space and Middle Ages and Renaissance in Bologna contains laboratories, galleries and even an including illuminated manuscripts, ivories, astronomical observatory. Bologna: Ducati Museum weapons and sculptures.. At present the building is one of the most The copper statue of Boniface VIII is very interesting museums in Bologna, it traces Bologna has an incredible museum heritage, interesting. Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: the history of science from 1500 to 1800. In one of the most extensive in Italy. Almost 9:00am-6:30pm; Sundays and holidays: came addition to the numerous frescoed rooms, 50 museums ranging from art to history and - 6:30pm Closed: Monday which make this building one of the most science to technology. charming private decorative complexes Travelplan proposes a selection of the most Collezioni Comunali d’Arte (Municipal Art in Italy, many museums can be visited. significant museums. If you purchase the Collections) The museum is located in Palazzo Travelplan recommends the following: Bologna dei Musei card, you can get into d’Accursio, now called Palazzo Comunale. many participating museums free. It is a furnished museum, the frescoed • Museo della Specola: the museum is housed monumental halls of the old building contain in the rooms which were once dedicated to Pinacoteca Nazionale (National Picture furniture, works of art and decorations from the astronomical observatory. Gallery) Traces Emilia’s painting from 1200 to the 14th to 19th centuries. The development of astronomical research 1800 and possesses works by Giotto, Raphael, Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 9.00am - 6:30pm; from 1700 to 1800 can be experienced through Titian, Tintoretto, Carracci and Guido Reni. Sunday and holidays: came - 6:30pm; Closed: the vast collection of astrolabes, telescopes, Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 9am - 7pm Closed: Mondays which are not holidays globes and star maps. Hours: Monday-Friday: Monday which are not holidays 8:30am - 5:30pm; Saturday-Sunday: 9-18.30 Museo della Comunicazione (Museum of Galleria d’Arte Moderna (Modern Art Gallery) Communication) Eight hundred pieces, still • Museo delle Navi e delle Antiche Carte Displays avant-garde works from the period in working order, tell the story of radio, Geografiche (Museums of Ships and Ancient after WWII to present and hosts temporary phonographs, movies and television. Maps): a complete collection, started in exhibits dedicated to various forms of artistic There is also a collection of historic the 18th century, containing globes, maps, expression. computers and juke boxes and entire sections antique volumes, weapons, wooden models There is also a space reserve for experiments dedicated to Gugliemo Marconi and the Ducati of ships from the 17th and 18th centuries. of contemporary artists. brothers. Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 9:00am - 5:30pm; Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: came - 6pm Closed: Telephone: 051 6491008 - Hours: by Saturday-Sunday: came - 6:30pm Closed: Monday reservation Monday.

© Netplan - Internet solutions for tourism © Netplan - Internet solutions for tourism THE BOLOGNA CITY GUIDE / THINGS TO SEE 9 10 THE BOLOGNA CITY GUIDE / THINGS TO SEE Historical buildings and monuments

containing a 2 ton bell: called the Campanazzo fifteen remain. The two towers are the the third floor of the house. A charming it rings during important occasions. The vaults symbol of Bologna. arcade (Corte Isolani) starts from the house of the building were once enlivened with the The taller one is Asinelli Tower built in the which crosses a series of internal courtyards workshops of haberdashers, green grocers 10th century. It is 97 m high with a 2.23 meter opening onto Piazza S. Stefano at the Palazzo and artisans. inclination The base was modified in 1488 to Isolani. The facade facing the square was remodelled house guards. This 15th century building contains a mixed in Renaissance style by local aristocrat The smaller is Garisenda Tower, a style combining Bolognese Gothic and Tuscan Giovanni Il Bentivoglio. The two buildings are contemporary of its neighbor. Its strong Renaissance. opened for exhibits and events. inclination (3.22 m) is striking, caused by an The faces of the six figures inserted in circular earlier greater settling of the land. medallions “curiously” display 19th century Palazzo Comunale hair styles. This is an impressive building-fortress Palazzo Bevilacqua overlooking Piazza Maggiore, today the seat One of Bologna’s most remarkable buildings of the municipal government. is located in Via D’Azeglio, built between It is characterized by a succession of 1477 and 1482 by jurist Niccolò Sanuti. The overlapping styles; the part in Gothic style building greatly differs from Bolognese with marble mullioned windows and terra architectural canons, and looks more like cotta decorations, dates back to 1400. On the Tuscan Renaissance buildings. left is the 16th century portal surmounted by The use of rustication on the facade like the a statue of Gregory XIII. Inside the complex it Palazzo dei Diamanti in Ferrara is interesting. Bologna: Two Towers is possible to visit (if not in use) a succession The charming internal courtyard with its of wonderful halls and chapels, climbing two loggias one over the other is ornately Piazza Maggiore the 16th century stairway designed for a decorated with sculptures and terra cotta This is the salon of the city. It was once the triumphant ascent on horseback. Sala Farnese relief work. center of political and religious power, but is leads to the Collezioni Comunali d’Arte and now one of the main gathering places of the Museo Morandi. Palazzo Pepoli Campogrande city, used for meetings, concerts or simple A large residence of nobility built by Count evening strolling. The Archiginnasio Odoardo Pepoli starting in 1653 opposite the The square was built in the 13th century Sits on the eastern side of Piazza Maggiore, family’s medieval building. to create a complex of buildings for public built by Cardinal Borromeo between 1562 All of the decor of the building was aimed at events. The fountain of Neptune, symbol and 1563 as the sight of the university Law celebrating the family and is an extraordinary of Bologna, stands at the entrance to the and Arts schools. It currently houses the town example of late 17th century Bolognese building. library. Interior: the walls of the halls, vaults art. The internal courtyard contains a great of the stairways and loggias are decorated staircase with a square layout. Palazzo Re Enzo with the engravings of thousands of students’ It is possible to visit the frescoed main hall Built in 1244, for 23 years it was the coats of arms and names. and other magnificent decorated rooms which “residence” of the son of the Emperor The Teatro Anatomico in carved wood, was compose the apartment, where works of the Frederick II: King Enzo of Sardinia, taken built by Antonio Levante in 1637 for teaching Zambeccari Collection are displayed with prisoner during the battle of Fossalta (1249). anatomy. Visiting hours: Monday-Saturday works of Emilia’s leading painters. Open: The first floor contains weapons and war 9:00am-1:00pm. Saturday 3:00pm - 7:00pm - Sunday 9:00am- machines of Bologna’s army, the second floor 7:00pm was used to hold sessions of the popular Two Towers councils. Bologna’s towers were important for warning Isolani Houses The Sala del Trecento is impressive. Next to and defensive purposes and were naturally a Casa Isolani, at 19 Strada Maggiore, is one Palazzo Re Enzo, stands Palazzo del Podestà; sign of prestige for the families who lived in of the rare examples of 13th century civil the building, the first seat of the citizen’s them. At the end of the 12th century there buildings. The facade is unusual, as is a very government is surmounted by a square tower were one hundred of them, today around tall portico formed by oak beams supporting

century to house Bologna’s stock market, walking down Via Saragozza until the gate is currently the site of a library with an that encloses it in the walls. Its long red extensive multimedia collection. arcades form one of the most spectacular A network of tunnels start under the crystal sights of the city. floor revealing Roman and Etruscan Bologna. Associazione Amici delle Acque di Bologna Climb to Santuario di San Luca Telephone: +39.051.522401 (Mon to Fri Located on a hill dominating Bologna, 8:30am -1:00pm) - Fax: +39.051.557794 Santuario di San Luca is one of the symbols of the city. Jewish ghetto The most charming way to reach it is to walk Bologna’s ghetto, in the medieval part of the along the 666 arches of the longest portico city, preserves its original structure. in the world! The portico, built in the 18th Dark passageways, narrow alleys and century, starts from Via Saragozza and leads to courtyards where the Church confined the sanctuary with a route lasting almost four Bologna’s Jews from 1556 to 1593, when they kilometers, which starts on flat ground and were exiled from the city for more than 2 ends at 220 meters on Colle della Guardia. centuries. The views over the city that can be seen from The ghetto is located between Via dell’Inferno the portico and hill will fully repay the effort. and the adjacent streets: an area once Inside the Sanctuary you can see the famous enclosed by two gates. picture of the Madonna, a Byzantine painting Bologna: Climb to Santuario di San Luca The synagogue was located at 16 Via that legend attributes to the evangelist dell’Inferno. Luke. Bologna’s canals The Jewish Museum (Museo Ebraico) is Very few visitors know it, but under Bologna located on Via Valdonica: it traces the history there is a dense network of canals which of the Jews over 4000 years, with particular supplied energy in the past to make silk and focus on the link between the Jewish grind wheat. Most of these were covered in community and Emilia Romagna. It also has the 1900’s. a specialized library. Hours: Sunday-Thursday To see a glimpse of these canals go to Via 9:00am-6:00pm; Friday 10:00am-4:00pm; Piella 18. A window under the portico reveals Closed: Saturday and Jewish holidays. a surprising scene. Il Collegio di Spagna Underground Bologna A very beautiful medieval college founded in Underground locks, canals and streams, age- 1365 to house the Spanish students enrolled old remains covered over time, in a virtually in the famous university. The complex is unseen before Bologna can now be visited protected by high walls, and is built in a style thanks to the “Amici delle Acque di Bologna” halfway between a monastery and fortified association. building. The entrance portal leads to a pretty The association organizes guided tours to 16th century cloister with double loggia. the various secret sights of the city: Bagni di The upper loggia is decorated with frescoes Mario (Mario’s Baths) a large underground 16th in the Gothic vaults. Even now the college century cistern with Renaissance decoration house 16 lucky Spanish students enrolled at and fascinating tunnels with ogive vaults. the University of Bologna at no charge. Visits An ingenious system for collecting water built by request only. based on Nero’s Domus Aurea. Sala Borsa (entrance from Piazza Nettuno) an Via Saragozza Art Nouveau hall built at the end of the 19th Leaving Collegio di Spagna, we recommend

stracotto di manzo (beef stew). Cold cuts are a characteristic area located between Via another prerogative of Emilia: the glory of Drapperie, Via Clavature and the surrounding Bologna is mortadella. Nearby cities provide side streets. Here you’ll ﬁnd the city’s best prosciutto from Parma, salami from Felino, gourmet shops, which display foodstuffs as if coppa from Piacenza, ham and zampone they were gems. The prices are a bit on the (stuffed pig’s trotter), which is served high side but the quality is guaranteed. The cooked. Among the cheeses, it is impossible more popular Mercato delle Erbe, a covered not to mention Parmigiano Reggiano, one of markets with all kinds of stalls, is located in the most famous cheeses in the world, but the central Via Ugo Bassi. A large clothing we also suggest trying squaccherone, a very market including a nice section with used soft cheese. and vintage clothing, is held every Friday Bologna’s residents like to eat cold cuts and and Saturday in Piazza 8 Agosto. For antiques cheeses with specials bread made with lard: and bric-à-brac there are markets in Piazza tigelle, crescentine and piadine. 8 Agosto every Thursday and in Piazza S. Dessert: to ﬁnish a meal with dignity you can Stefano every second weekend of the month. try the typical pan speziale, a Christmas cake made with dried fruit and torta di riso (rice cake).

Wine: the most famous product of these lands

Bologna: tagliatelle is Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine grown Bologna: Mercato di Mezzo between Bologna and Reggio Emilia. Few cities in the world boast a heritage of It is not a particularly expensive wine, but Bologna is definitely one of the Italian meccas gourmet tradition like Bologna. However, with its pleasant light taste and fruity bouquet for shopping, an enormous outdoor shopping one of the three epithets of the city if it has conquered major success throughout center which is home to the leading designer “la grassa” (the fat one), well-deserved the world. boutiques as well as design and furniture considering the local passion for good food. The hilly area behind Bologna has a much shops, and many book stores, antique shops So it is not surprising that many of the most different vocation, this is the Colli Bolognesi and art galleries. famous Italian dishes in the world come from DOC area. Excellent wines are produced Bologna. here including the whites Albana, Pignoletto, The so-called “quadrilatero” - an area enclosed Sauvignon, Pinot Bianco and Riesling or reds by Via Rizzoli, Via D’Azeglio, Via Farini and Via Pasta dishes include famous names like Barbera, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Castiglione - reveals the most elegant nature tortellini. There are many varieties, but of Bologna, which reaches its peak in Galleria the ones in Bologna are stuffed with meat, Cavour where the most famous designers prosciutto, mortadella, parmesan and are are located. Via Indipendenza is another served in broth. Then there are tortelloni golden mile of shopping, decidedly the most stuffed with ricotta. This is also the land of popular in Bologna. There are tons of shops, egg pasta, including the stars tagliatelle and with a wide range of goods and affordable for lasagna. Taglatelle, according to tradition everyone. If you are looking for a more original are served with meat sauce, and the pasta and refined style, the right address is Via San for real lasagna is green, since it is made with Vitale. If Via dell’Archiginnasio, which flanks spinach. Meat is not missing in Bologna, and Piazza Maggiore, is famous for jewelry, Strada pork is the undisputed king. Maggiore, Corte Isolani and Via S. Stefano are A traditional dish is cotoletta alla bolognese, good streets for antiques and furniture. a cutlet covered with prosciutto and cheese, bollito misto (assorted boiled meats) and To take a plunge into Bologna’s gourmet scene various roasts are also popular, for example head for the so-called Mercato di Mezzo,

© Netplan - Internet solutions for tourism © Netplan - Internet solutions for tourism THE BOLOGNA CITY GUIDE / THINGS TO TRY 15 16 THE BOLOGNA CITY GUIDE / THINGS TO EXPERIENCE Hotels & lodgings Events

in the spring between March and May and in fall between October and November. Various venues: Europauditorium, Teatro Comunale and others.

Celebrations of Madonna di San Luca. The weekend of the 6th Sunday of Easter Bologna’s most important religious festival is held: the image of the Madonna kept in the Santuario di San Luca descends into the city for the blessing in the church of S. Petronio. The celebration closes with the solemn return procession of the image to the Sanctuary.

San Marino Formula 1 Grand Prix - Imola racetrack, in May. The Formula 1 calendar takes to the legendary circuit of Imola. The racetrack was built in a land where engines are a religion, the hometown of companies like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and

Bologna: around the city Bologna: Motor Show Ducati. The race is held on Sunday, trials are on Friday and Saturday. With more than 20 trade shows per year, Bologna, as a great cultural capital and trade Bologna is the second trade show center in show center, hosts an impressive series of all Made in BO For the entire summer the Italy. Thus the city has one of the widest types of events: music, art, dance, culture, location of performance and music in the offerings of accommodations in Italy. You can sports, trade shows and markets. Travelplan Parco Nord presents great art, music and choose from many hotels, rooms to let or proposes a selection of the most signiﬁcant performance happenings, including rock bed-and-breakfasts based on your needs and recurring events. concerts like Flippaut Rock Festival (June), budget. Independent Days Festival (September) and If you prefer the complete service of a hotel, Netmage - creative and innovative images MTV Day (September). Travelplan proposes a selection of hotels in on art, media, communication. In January, Bologna. If are looking for a more economic various locations in the city. International Danza urbana - end of July. International solution but without giving up comfort, you festival dedicated to live media and new dance festival in urban spaces. An itinerary can opt for a cozy bed-and-breakfast in trends in electronic and digital creative of extraordinary performances in the most Bologna. If you are planning a long stay an production. important squares of the city. excellent solution is a residence in Bologna or an apartment in Bologna. For those Arteﬁera - end of January, Fiera di Bologna. Artelibro - end of September. The only event who desire contact with Mother Nature International exhibition and market of of this kind in Italy. A great art book festival, there is plenty to choose from: there are contemporary art, one of the longest running which covers each product connected to the many country guesthouses in Bologna, in shows in Italy for the art market, with more sector: from show catalogs to art books for a wonderful position of the hills around the than 250 exhibiting galleries. children. The show is held in Palazzo Re Enzo, city. in the heart of the city. A full schedule of Bologna Festival a classical music festival related events: book presentations, meetings which has brought the most prestigious with the author, debates and exhibits. names of the international concert world to Bologna for more than 20 years. The festival Superbike World Championship - Imola is held at two separate times during the year: racetrack, between September and October.

La Dolce Vita

All of the most important motorcycle are filled with swarms of young people from manufacturers will race in the Superbike happy hour (7:00pm) until late at night. championship: in addition to Ducati, all the Japanese will be present and the Malay If movies are your thing, there are 30 movie Petronas. The race is run on Sunday, in two theaters in Bologna, where young can enjoy rounds. the latest blockbusters and real gems for movie fans. Bologna e le Città del Cibo, in October. A The theatrical offering is equally good with festival dedicated to gastronomy. Some of the experimental performances, musicals, dance, squares in the center are transformed into opera and symphony. The “Bologna dei Teatri” stages for performances, typical dishes and circuit unites the main city facilities, the presentation of typical Bolognese gourmet performances are published every week on a products. single playbill. To listen to good jazz in Bologna, we Motor Show - in December, at the Fiera di recommend two excellent places: Cantina Bologna. International car and motorcycle Bentivoglio and Chet Baker. trade show, which has been sold out for years. The best of two wheel and four wheel To finish a Bologna night, the traditional rite international production, with numerous involves indulging in a croissant or warm debuts and a thrilling race and exhibition doughnut that many of the city’s bakeries schedule. Bologna: crowd in Piazza Maggiore offer starting in the early hours of the morning. Opera and Ballet Season at Teatro Comunale Bologna is known throughout Italy as the - from October to May. Teatro Comunale is the mecca of fun, a hedonistic city, where night historical theater of Bologna, a masterpiece life and fun can be found for all generations & by Antonio Galli Bibiena, famous 18th century A city which, thanks to the massive presence architect, set designer, painter and decorator. of students, is open to all forms of expression, The season proposes an excellent lineup of even the most alternative. opera and symphony music. Infoline: 199 107070 Taking time for cocktail is a must in the alleys of Mercato di Mezzo or in Piazza Maggiore, where you can sip a glass of good wine accompanied by the tastiest appetizers of the local cuisine. Bologna would not be the same without its traditional “osteria”, which once represented the center of the city’s social life. There are very many of them scattered throughout the city, some open to less than traditional influences, but all maintain the irresistible charm of partying. The greatest concentration is found in Via del Pratello, the focal point of Bologna’s night life, where nothing ever shuts and you can drink wines and hang out with friends. The university area is another hot spot for Bologna’s nocturnal crowd: Via Zamboni, Piazza Verdi and Via delle Belle Arti

really interesting sight is the S. Assunta MODENA Carpi Abbey, from the 12th century, which became One of Emilia’s historical city, mainly famous This small town is located a short distance very important in the 14th century. The old for its Piazza Grande, its vital center and on from Modena. It is worth going there to see crypt dating back to before 1000 and the two UNESCO’s World Heritage List. the spectacular Piazza dei Martiri, the third cloisters are worth seeing. The Duomo and Palazzo Comunale are located largest square in Italy. Palazzo dei Pio, the on the square. The Duomo (cathedral), Cathedral, theater, Palazzo Comunale and Vignola built starting in the 12th century 1099, Mercato del Grano are located on the square. A small city known for its beautiful fortress and is considered one of the best European Palazzo dei Pio, composed of different cultivation of famous cherries. The fortress is Romanesque masterpieces. It is striking buildings dating from the Middle Ages to the square with towers attached, which existed due to its architectural appearance as well 18th century, stands on the eastern side of in the 9th century. Once past the drawbridge as the decorations on the facade, work the square. The Pio family transformed the and moat you enter a hall decorated with of the sculptor Wiligelmo and the Maestri first fortress into a flamboyant Renaissance 15th century frescoes. The visit continues to Campionesi. The sculptures of the Stories dwelling. The interior of the building can the upper floors, with fascinating medieval of Genesis on the facade and main portal be visited in Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. spaces, and basements. Hours: Winter: 10.00- are of note. The gates that open along the Hours: 10-12.30/15.30-19.00 12.00 / 14.30-18.00. Summer: 10.00-12.00 / sides are considered excellent expressions of 15.30-19.00 Romanesque sculpture. The majestic interior contains sculptures created by the Maestri Maranello is headquarters of the most Campionesi between the 12th and 13th prestigious car manufacturer in the world: centuries and the wooden stalls of the choir. Modena: the Galleria Ferrari Ferrari. Each year thousands of enthusiasts A terra cotta group created by Guido Mazzoni from all over the world converge on this corner around 1480 stands out in the crypt. A short This itinerary winds around the hills between of Emilia to visit the Galleria Ferrari. Located distance from the Duomo stands the 87 meter Bologna and Modena, in a gentle landscape right near the manufacturer, the Gallery is an Torre della Ghirlandina. dotted with castles, old convents and extraordinary 2500 square meter museum vineyards. This land is also the undisputed organized in four areas: Formula One, special The Palazzo Comunale sits on the other heart of the creativity and passion of Italian exhibits, technological innovation and photo two sides of the square. The interior can engines. Four simple names are sufficient exhibits. All of the race cars which have made be visited, with marvelous halls frescoed in for understanding this phenomenon: Ferrari, Ferrari’s history on circuits all over the world different epochs, like Sala degli Arazzi, Sala Maserati, Lamborghini and De Tomaso. are exhibited here. del Fuoco and Sala del Vecchio Consiglio. The itinerary can be done in two or more days, There are also two simulators of real Formula A short distance away in Piazza Sant’ Agostino, it is worth spending the night to explore these 1 available to try the thrill of driving a single- is the Palazzo dei Musei, which contains historical cities at a relaxing pace. You can seater in a World Championship race. Open: the “most beautiful illuminated book in the choose from a selection of hotels in Modena every day, from 9:30am to 6:00pm world”: the Bible which belonged to Borso for a stay characterized by relaxation and d’Este. Do not miss the Galleria Estense charm. For those who prefer a different type Spezzano Castle inside the building, which was the private art of accommodation, there is a vast selection In Fiorano, near the Ferrari test circuit, is the gallery of this noble Modena family. It is one of cozy bed-and-breakfasts in Modena or beautiful Castello di Spezzano. The manor of the most important Italian collections with one of the numerous country guesthouses dates back to the 11th century, and is formed works by Bernini, Velasquez, Correggio and El in Modena, scattered amidst the Lambrusco in a square around a central courtyard. The Greco. vineyards. interiors can be visited and are decorated Palazzo Ducale, is currently the seat of with military scenes and the pretty Museo the Military Academy, built starting in 1634 Monteveglio della Ceramica. for Duke Francesco I with the help of the In a picturesque position on a hill dominating This area is one of the most important ceramic best artists of the time, including Bernini, the plains, sits the age-old castle and abbey producing zones in Italy. Open: from April Borromini and Pietro da Cortona. The reigned over by Matilde di Canossa. While 9th to October 30th, Saturday and Sunday construction incorporated the preexisting only the tower remains of the castle, the 3:00pm-7:00pm. structure of the older 14th century castle.

why the inhabitants of Ferrara are still called art shows are regularly held in the building. Mesola Wood is what now remains of a very “estensi”. Palazzina Marfisa is another flamboyant Este vast woody area dating back to the year one family residence dating back to the 16th thousand. The wood is an intact reserve and The heart of the city is the medieval square century. It is worth visiting to see its extensive has different landscapes, including areas the Cathedral stands on. The Cathedral, collection of art objects and antique furniture with marsh vegetation and fauna. Do not started in the 12th century, it is a harmonious on display in its rooms. miss the area called “Taglio della Falce” at mixture of different styles. The lower part the southern edge of the wood, where it is of the three cusp facade is Romanesque, the From Ferrara the itinerary continues heading possible to see an extremely charming view. upper part is a splendid example of Gothic east to Comacchio, the entrance to the large The wood can be visited on foot or by bike architecture decorated with a grandiose Po Delta Natural Park, an area of 54 hectares from March to October: Tuesday, Friday, “Universal Judgement: sculpted in the central filled with woods, rivers, lagoons and marshy Saturday and holidays. Bikes can be rented at part. The southern side is characterized by valleys. It is the vastest protected wetland in the entrance to the Wood. a portico of the medieval workshops. The Italy, an area filled with natural environments interior, rebuilt in the 17th century, houses which are home to hundreds of animal and lovely works of art, including: on the altar next plant species. An infinite number of excursions to the right transept, “Martyr of San Lorenzo” on foot or by bike are possible in the Park. by Guercino; and “Universal Judgement” by Numerous boats depart from the ports of Bastianino in the apse. Goro and Gorino and follow fascinating routes along the river. Estense Castle dating back to the 14th

Bologna: Po Delta Natural Park century, when it was built to defend the Este Comacchio is the most original and fascinating family from popular revolts. It became the town on the Po Delta. It was built during the This itinerary will accompany you to discover ofﬁcial residence of the Dukes in the 16th Middle Ages on thirteen islands and based Ferrara, a city rich in art and history, and century and was completely redesigned, its development exclusively on the water. the characteristic lands ape of the Po Delta, becoming one of the most admired aristocratic Today it is a city with intact and unique where Italy’s main river meets the Adriatic residences of the time. The interior with 16th architectural characteristics, made up of Sea, giving rise to a unique environment of century frescoes can be visited in its entirety; canals, 17th century buildings, low, colorful woods and lagoons. the “Giardino degli Aranci” deserves special houses and famous landmark bridges. The The itinerary can be done in two or more mention. town overlooks Valli di Comacchio, a marshy days, it is worth spending the night to explore lagoon of 13,000 hectares where the eel and these areas at a relaxing pace. You can The Herculean Expansion: in 1942 Duke a myriad of birds reign. It is possible to visit it choose from a selection of hotels in Ferrara Ercole d’Este ordered the expansion of the on foot, by bike or in comfortable boats. The for a stay characterized by relaxation and city towards the north with a state of the Museo delle Valli opens in the area called charm. For those who prefer a different type art design. The new quarter shaped by wide Casone Foce, an itinerary along the banks and of accommodation, there is a vast selection straight streets, contains elegant buildings canals inside the valleys which illustrates the of cozy bed-and-breakfasts in Ferrara or like Palazzo dei Diamanti and the famous age-old relationship between civilization and one of the numerous country guesthouses in Piazza Ariostea. nature in these fascinating environments. Ferrara and the Po Delta. Palazzo dei Diamanti owes its name to the wonderful rustication facade which recalls Pomposa Abbey is a Benedictine abbey FERRARA the shape of diamonds. Its current appearance situated at the edge of Mesola Wood. The Ferrara, a city on Unesco’s World Heritage dates back to the end of the 16th century abbey dates back to the 6th century and was List, is striking due to its own special charm, when Cesare d’Este chose it as his residence. a great center of culture and prayer. The a city suspended between the Middle Ages Splendid decorated halls and even more interior of the church conserves the columns and Renaissance. We suggest visiting it by importantly the Pinacoteca Nazionale can be with Byzantine and Romanesque capitals and bike, the preferred method of transportation visited inside it. The latter is home to works a wonderful series of frescoes. The over 50 for 90% of its inhabitants. In the past it was by Gentile da Fabriano, Ercole de’Roberti and meter Romanesque bell tower is famous. the capital of the rich Este dukedom, which is Carpaccio among others. International level

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