The heart of city life in Bologna

The undisputed symbol of the city of Bologna, Piazza Maggiore has been at the heart of city life for the people of Bologna for centuries. The square is one of the oldest in Italy, dating back to the 13th century, when the municipality decided to buy land there to dedicate to a market.

Overlooking the square is the beautiful Basilica of San Petronio, the façade of which displays a magnificent contrast of light and dark that becomes even more striking at sunset. You can enjoy a coffee or an aperitif to the sounds of the many street performers who make the atmosphere even more magical.

Other buildings of interest include Palazzo dei Notai, Palazzo d’Accursio and the Clock Tower, Palazzo del Podestà and finally Palazzo Bianchi.

If you find yourself near Bologna during the summer months, don’t miss the “Sotto le Stelle del Cinema” film festival, which brings the nights between July and August to life and has now become an unmissable event for the locals of Bologna.