Travel to Bologna
Introduction to Bologna
The quest for absolute truth and authenticity has always been the motto of this learned city and its people. When the ancient university was initially founded in the eleventh century the Bolognese officials used their budding young scholars to solve the many problems that existed between church and state. This focus on academia is something which has caused the city to be politically diverse and active throughout history. Words by Alice Dean
Show/Hide More...In the 20th century Bologna reaped the repercussions and was subjected to the brunt of fascist regimes which eventually lead to a brutal massacre at Marzabotto, carried out by Hitler’s Nazi party. After the terror of the Second World War the city became known as ‘Red Bologna’, and it was the leading strong hold of the newly formed Italian communist party. However, the city is not jut famed for its liberal stance in politics. The food of the Emilia- Romagna region is outstanding and the best of it can be found in the capital. The rich wine and food is complimented by the friendly and relax attitude of the locals. Aesthetically speaking the city triumphs again as it is exceptionally beautiful. In particular, the Piazza Maggoire should be judged second only to the squares of Venice. The large student population makes Bologna quite unique in the respect that things are always changing and there is always something new to experience. The best time to visit is between March and October, but in the height of summer the city becomes quite deserted. January here is also pleasant although it does become quite cold. Bologna is adored by all Italians and compared to other cities it does not rely on tourism to survive. This means that coming to this city gives any traveller a realistic insight into Italian life and culture, but with less overbearing crowds.
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Where to stay in Bologna
1. Hotel Porto San Mamolo REASONABLE
This popular hotel is just 400 metres from Bologna’s famous Piazza Maggiore. It has comfortable rooms and the decoration fits the typical Bolognese style.
2. Palazzo Trevi Charming House REASONABLE
This hotel offers an apartment which is fully equipped with kitchen facilities and is ideal for a family. It is located in the centre of the city and has a warm and friendly atmosphere.
3. Starhotels Bologna Excelsior REASONABLE
The Excelsior has 193 guestrooms spread over seven floors and is directly opposite the train station. It has a modern style and offers the use of five large meeting rooms for conferences.
4. Minotel Il Guercino BUDGET
This residence has an inviting colonial theme with many wooden furnishings. Complementary tours of the city are offered every Sunday morning and are associated with local the tourist board .
5. Savoia Regency REASONABLE
This hotel is located in Bologna’s San Donato district. The rooms are very spacious and there is a large swimming pool available for guests. There is also a baby sitting facility for couples with young children.
6. I Portici Hotel REASONABLE
This four star hotel boasts 19th century lounges and a ceiling with fresco paintings. It is ideally located for exploring the as Piazza Maggiore is only a short walk away.
7. HC3 Hotel REASONABLE
HC3 Hotel has very good access to Bologna’s main financial and fair district. It is ideal for business travellers and all rooms are equipped with a high speed internet connection.
8. Hotel Imperial BUDGET
The hotel is located out of the centre but you get a lot for what you pay. The rooms are large and comfortable, breakfast in provided and the staff are friendly.
9. Internazionale Hotel REASONABLE
Elegant hotel which is situated in the heart of the historical city. There are 166 rooms of different size and price.
10. Paradise Hotel BUDGET
Guests can enjoy free guided tours of the city. Rooms are simple but clean and apartments are also available.
Where to eat in Bologna
Spaghetti Bolognese was born here and it still remains a popular dish among the locals. However, because the dish has become a favourite world wide many Bolognese prefer to put their Ragu sauce with lasagne or tagliatelle.
The city is not just famous for its pasta speciality but also renowned for its love for mortadella, a tasty sausage that is flavoured with garlic. City records mention the salami being in Bologna as far back as 1376.
What to see in Bologna
1. Piazza Maggoire
This is the first place to start when exploring the city as it is the largest pedestrian square in Bologna and very much the centre of public life. It is overlooked by the world’s fifth largest basilica, San Petronio which was built in 1390 and boasts some spectacular Renaissance architecture.
2. Fountain of Neptune
Just further on from Piazza Maggoire is Piazza Nettuno which features a fountain designed in the sixteenth century. Made out of bronze, the sculptured figures represent the four continents of the pre- Oceania world. The piece is considered an important symbol of the city by Bolognese.
3. Basilica San Petronio
This Basilica was originally meant to be bigger than St Peters in Rome but instead money was given to the university and the building work had to stop. However, it is still an impressive structure with exceptional carvings and frescoes. It is also the home to interesting artefacts such as a sundial by Cassini and Guglielmini and has a small museum.
4. University Area
Bologna is famed for its ancient university and the quarter is perhaps the most enjoyable part of the city. The streets are teeming with restaurants, bars and shops, where visitors can enjoy the vibrant nightlife as well as the ancient university departments. The best view of the city can also be found here by climbing the 498 steps of the Torre degli Asinelli, Bologna’s very own leaning tower.
5. Museo Civico Archeologico
The Archaeological Museum has excellent displays of Egyptian and Roman antiquities and is located on the Via dell’ Archiginnasio. Much of what is featured was found in the Etruscan settlement of Felsina and highlights include a bronze Certosa jar that is over 1,500 years old.
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