Introducing Bologna
Boasting one of the country’s great medieval cityscapes – an eye-catching ensemble of red-brick palazzi, Renaissance towers and 40km of arcaded porticoes – Bologna is a wonderful alternative to the north’s more famous cities. Italy’s culinary capital, it’s an attractive, animated place; a large student population and active gay scene ensure a vitality that’s so often missing in many of Emilia’s smaller towns.
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Nicknamed la rossa (‘the red’ – as much a political moniker as reference to its colourful buildings), Bologna has long had a reputation for left-wing militancy. Passions have cooled since students faced down tanks in 1977, but the city remains highly political. Italian prime minister Romano Prodi is from Bologna and the university, Europe’s oldest, is still a source of student agitation.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Tips & articles
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Old school: Europe’s historic college towns
8 February 2011
Ah, those halcyon student days. Picture cafes buzzing far past midnight with wine-fueled debates on the nature of love and...
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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Bologna to the airport
by 22dusty22 14 September 2011
Hi everyone, I will be staying in Bologna for the last 3 or 4 days of our italy trip. We have a 7:00 am flight out on the last morning.…
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RE: Milan, Florence and where else at Christmas??
by richiavo 03 September 2011
Just using public transport and that time of year I would suggest cities or towns will be your best option. From Florence you will have…
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RE: Italian general strike will effect your travel plans next week
by neckervd 01 September 2011
Not only Milan: "Buses/urban transport: 8 hours, different time frames according to town/area" Update: Italian General strike 6 Septemb…
