Visit Bologna : the learned, the fat and the red
The city of Bologna is often overlooked in front of the ever popular Rome and Florence. But let me assure you Bologna has a lot to offer. Be it architecture, history, food, culture or politics, Bologna is a complete package. The city has 3 nicknames: la dotta (the learned), la grassa (the fat) and la rossa (the red). The stories behind these nicknames will definitely make you add Bologna to your Italy itinerary.
Do you know that the Leaning Tower of Pisa is not the only leaning tower in Italy. There are couple of them in Bologna. Infact you can climb one of them to see some breathtaking views of the city. Know more about these towers read more
Bologna the learned: la dotta
The term ‘University’ comes from the Latin phrase universitas magistrorum et scholarium which means a community of teachers and scholars. And it’s in Bologna where this term was coined at the foundation of University of Bologna. The University of Bologna is the world’s oldest university formed in 1088 AD with some of its famous alumni being Nicolaus Corpenicus (creator of the model of universe in which sun was at the centre), Enzo Ferrari (founder of Ferrari), Umberto Eco (a famous novelist), Guglielmo Marconi (inventor of radio), Pope Alexander VI, Pope Gregory XIII (he commissioned the Gregorian Calendar).
Visiting the corridors of the university was a dream come true for me. Being a Mathematics lover, I was literally drooling looking at the ancient text books in the library. I wish I knew reading Latin. All over Italy you will be able to see many beautiful churches and art galleries but this was a complete different experience and probably the reason why I rate Bologna so highly. Today Bologna is a vibrant student town with approximately 80000 students. It’s the students which shape the culture of this magnificent city with numerous graffiti and an extraordinary music scene.
Bologna the fat: la grassa
The walk around the University was soul satisfying but now I had to satisfy my stomach as well. And what better place than Bologna. Many call it the culinary capital of Italy. You simply cannot go wrong with food in Bologna. There’s Lasagna, Tagliatelle (also called Spaghetti Bolognese), Tortellini (ring shaped pasta) and Mortadella (Italian sausage). While walking on the streets, someone suggested me to try the tortellini pasta at a place called Tamburini. With its display of hanging meats and cut cheese, Tamburini looks like a centre of food art. I am not exaggerating, the tortellini pasta I had at this place is the best ever pasta I have ever had. The chef had suggested a wine on the side and it was a perfect combination. I strongly suggest travelling to Bologna just for its food. You won’t regret it one bit.
Bologna the red: la rossa
To know why Bologna is nicknamed la rossa, climb the Asinelli Tower to witness a 360﮲ degree view of Bologna. Asinelli is not your normal tower. Standing at 97.2m with an inclination of 1.3﮲, it’s the tallest leaning tower in the world. Here is a complete guide about the two leaning towers of Bologna, read more…
The view from the top is absolutely stunning. Buildings in Bologna are red in color and hence the nickname. But apparently there is another reason why it’s called the red; because of its left-wing politics. It has been a major center for the communist parties in Italy.
Piazza Maggiore, the central square in Bologna, is a perfect place to relax in the evening. Just sit on the ground with a gelato, admire the Basilica of San Petronio, observe the people and enjoy some music.
How to reach Bologna
Bologna is an industrial hub and that means it’s well connected to all the major cities in Italy by buses, trains and highways.
Milan to Bologna – 200 kms
Venice to Bologna – 150 kms
Florence to Bologna – 100 kms
There are high speed trains that connect Bologna to the above mentioned cities. If you have a Eurail Pass, you will require a reservation (an extra fee besides the Eurail pass) on the high speed trains. You also have the option of the non-reservation trains (no need for an extra fee, the Eurail pass itself is enough) but it takes double the time.
Sincera Tip
- There are a couple of free walking tours in Bologna. Free walking tour Italia has tours at 11:00 am from Tuesday to Sunday in English starting right below the Asinelli Tower
- If you are into museums, the Bologna Card will save you a lot of money. Visit here for more information on the Bologna Card
- Modena, the place where Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati is made, lies only 50 kms from Bologna. There are frequent trains running between these two cities.