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Bologna
The ancient Italian city of Bolognia lies in the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy as its regional capital.
Founded by the Etruscan civilization, the area grew from a Roman colony, blossoming as one of the most opulent cities of Italy. Today the city is known as a culinary capital for la cucina Bolognese (Bolognese cusine) which depends heavily on meats and cheeses. Aside from the local food, vibrant sunny colors that warm the buildings and landmarks in the city, give the city the moniker Bologna la Rossa or Bologna the red.
An authentic Italian experience awaits visitors to the area, starting at its town centre. One of the best preserved throughout Europe, one’s journey would begin in the large pedestrian square at Piazza Maggiore with its Rennaisance architecture. Nearby is the Fountain of Nepture at the Piazza del Nettuno, built in 1563.
City landmarks such as the Torre degli Asinelli (Tower of the Asinelli) and Torre dei Garisenda (Tower of the Garisenda) symbolize Bologna. The city hall or Palazzo Comunale is a wonderous place not only for local legislation but also as a 14th Century palazzo with an enormous staircase designed to accommodate the horse-drawn carriages of the eminent families. While the Basilica di San Luca (St. Luke's Basilica) on Guardia hill offers stunning panoramic vistas of the city, after a long walk along the arches of the portico.
Home to the first university in the world, the University of Bologna was founded over 900 years ago. Today, the University quarter is a charming part of the city with quaint cafes filled with friendly locals.
