Dozza​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 26 September 2023
The medieval town of Dozza is a comune in the Metropolitan City of Bologna province in the region of Emilia Romagna. It's listed as one of the Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (Most Beautiful Villages in Italy) of which there are around 270 across the country.

Dozza's listing comes with the headline La Rocca del Vino but it's really the endless murals that leave the longest lasting impression.
This little medieval jewel is drenched in beautiful art that adorns the walls of the village's houses, due in part to a festival that takes place there every two years. ​​The result is a riot of colour and makes Dozza a must for any trip to the Emilia Romagna region. 

Aside from the murals, the most famous sight in the town is the Rocca Sforzesca di Dozza, a medieval fortress which takes its name from the Sforza dynasty that was so powerful during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
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Dozza is a picturesque medieval village located in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. Its history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of Etruscan and Roman settlements in the area. During the medieval period, Dozza became an important fortified town due to its strategic location on the Via Emilia, an ancient Roman road that connected Rome with the northern regions of Italy.

The village is renowned for its impressive medieval castle, Castello di Dozza, which played a crucial role in protecting the region during times of conflict between the city-states of Bologna and Imola.

Today, Dozza is celebrated for its artistic heritage, as many of its walls are adorned with beautiful murals, making it a unique and colorful destination for art lovers and travelers seeking a step back in time.

Tourist Sights: 

  • Murals: The most distinctive feature of Dozza is its murals, which were initiated in the 1960s during the Biennale del Muro Dipinto (Biennial of the Painted Wall) event. Artists from around the world come to paint the walls of the village, creating an open-air art gallery with vibrant and captivating paintings.
  • Castello di Dozza: The imposing medieval castle, Castello di Dozza, is a significant landmark in the village. Visitors can explore the castle's towers, walls, and courtyards, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Church of San Biagio: This charming church in Dozza features beautiful religious artworks and serves as a peaceful place for contemplation.
  • Regional Wine Cellar: Dozza is also known for its wine production. Visitors can taste and purchase local wines at the Regional Wine Cellar, appreciating the region's renowned Sangiovese and Pignoletto wines.
  • Historic Center: Dozza's historic center is a delight to explore, with its cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and quaint squares exuding an authentic medieval ambiance.

Local Cuisine: Dozza and the Emilia-Romagna region offer a delectable array of traditional Italian dishes. Visitors can enjoy regional specialties such as tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese sauce), and piadina, a flatbread typical of the region.
Comune di Dozza
Province: Metropolitan City of Bologna

Region: Emilia Romagna

Population: 6,533 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2023)

​​Total size: 24 km²​​
​Elevation: 190 metres

​Highlights: ​​Rocca Sforzesca Castle, street art/murales

Close by: Imola, Bologna, Faenza, Brisighella, Forlì, Terra del Sole

Recommended stay: Hotel Castello Artemide Congressi (9 km)
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)

Listing headline: La Rocca del Vino (The Rock of Wine)

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