Bologna, a cosmopolitan Italian city tucked into the northern Italian mountains in the Emiliano-Romagna region, is a city stuffed with diverse ethnic cultures and a rich history. Bologna is also infamous for its rich art, cuisine, and music, making it a cultural capital of Italy.
The city, over a millennium old, has a sundry history. Fist ruled by the Etruscans, the city eventually dwindled until it was conquered and ruled by the Romans. Roman culture’s impact is still quite apparent today in the city’s breathtaking architecture. Under the rule of the Romans, Bologna exploded. Its rapid expansion, in part due to its central location, breathed a wave of culture into the city. Part of Bologna’s allure is its diverse history, proudly displayed in monumental architecture and its extensive set of museums.
Bologna is squashed between the Savena river valleys and the breathtaking Apennines, a series of mountain ranges in northern Italy. The city itself is located in the relatively flat Padana Plains.
Bologna features a slew of historical points of interest. Until a substantial renovation project in the late 19th century, Bologna was renown as one of the best-preserved cities in Europe. The archaic history is still prevalent, with numerous churches and other landmarks spread throughout the city. San Petronio Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world, draws visitors from across the globe. San Giacomo Maggiore basilica, a 13th century church, features Renaissance works from many of Italy’s prominent painters.
One of Bologna’s main attractions is its University of Bologna. The oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna hosts thousands of students, which contribute to Bologna’s economic prosperity and rich cultural. The university, founded in 1088, has been masterfully preserved and is often considered a hallmark of Italian architecture. The city has often been dubbed “the learned one” after its world famous university.
Dining in Bologna is an experience within itself. World cuisine meets debatably the best Italian cuisine offered in Europe, fusing into truly world-class eatery experience. Bologna, renown for its traditional cuisine, has sparked the meat based Bolognese tomato sauce. A series of nearby wine vineyards provide some of Italy’s highest regarded wines. Local specialties include ragu, lasagna, tortellini, and mortadella, a local original sausage.
A rich combination of arts and music are omniscient throughout Bologna. Numerous jazz fests are hosted at Bologna, and the theatre has a very prevalent presence. Film festivals and art shows are common throughout the city, and opera, jazz, classical, electronic, and folk music can be heard at one of the cities many venues. A host of artists and musicians live in Bologna, furthering its culture and adding to its sense of culture.
Bologna, a city full of culture, is sure to please even the most veteran travellers. From the breathtaking architecture to the world class dining and fine arts, Bologna is sure to appeal to almost every traveler.
