Almost a thousand years of university history, endless porticoes and a legendary food tradition. Discover the origins, symbols and places that tell Bologna's identity.
Bologna is known across Italy by three nicknames that capture its soul: la Dotta (the Learned), for its university — the oldest in the Western world, founded in 1088 — la Grassa (the Fat), for a food tradition that made its dishes famous everywhere, and la Rossa (the Red), for the colour of the old town's brick roofs and, historically, for its political leanings.
An Etruscan city (Felsina) first and a Roman one (Bononia) later, in the Middle Ages Bologna was one of Europe's most powerful free communes. Today its old town, among the best preserved on the continent, is crossed almost entirely under the famous porticoes — nearly 62 km, UNESCO World Heritage since 2021.
Founded in 1088, the Alma Mater Studiorum is considered the oldest university in the Western world still active. For centuries it drew students and scholars from across Europe, shaping the city's lively, international character, still deeply university-driven today.
Bologna's porticoes are a unique urban infrastructure: nearly 62 km of covered walkways crossing the city, from the old town up to the Sanctuary of San Luca on the hill. Declared UNESCO World Heritage in 2021, they're also a symbol of accessibility and shared everyday life.
The heart of the city is Piazza Maggiore, dominated by the Basilica of San Petronio. A short walk away, the Two Towers — Asinelli and Garisenda — have watched over the city for almost a thousand years, a symbol recognised worldwide.
The city's symbol, between history and legend.
Scopri →The unfinished gothic church of Piazza Maggiore.
Scopri →From Imola to the Motor Valley, from wine hills to the Apennines.
Scopri →La Grassa: tortellini, tagliatelle and Italy's most famous food tradition.
Scopri →Ready-made routes to plan your visit, from a day to a weekend.
Scopri →Fresh pasta classes, guided tours and bike rides in the hills.
Scopri →