Metropolitan City of Bologna
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Latest page update: 9 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Metropolitan City of Bologna province occupies a total geographical area of 3,702 square kilometres, including the city of Bologna itself, the regional capital of Emilia Romagna.
Within the province there are 56 provincial towns, containing a total population of around a million inhabitants. Among the highlights in the province are the towns of Dozza and Imola. |
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Metropolitan City of Bologna Overview
The province of Bologna is located in the central part of Emilia-Romagna, bordered by the Po River to the north and the Apennine Mountains to the south. Known for its rich cultural, historical, and culinary heritage, Bologna serves as both the capital of the province and a vibrant centre of art and education. The city and its surrounding region offer a blend of medieval charm, modern life, and stunning landscapes.
Bologna itself is renowned for its medieval architecture, with its iconic red-tiled roofs, narrow portico-lined streets, and historical buildings. The famous Piazza Maggiore, at the heart of the city, is home to several notable landmarks, including the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo del Podestà. The Two Towers, known as Asinelli and Garisenda, are among the most recognised symbols of the city, while the Archiginnasio, a former university building, houses the Teatro Anatomico and offers a glimpse into Bologna’s long academic history. As a university town, it is also home to one of the oldest universities in the world, adding to the city’s vibrant intellectual and cultural atmosphere.
Beyond the city, the province of Bologna is filled with picturesque villages, rolling hills, and natural parks, making it a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The hills surrounding the city provide stunning views, and places such as the Parco Regionale dei Gessi Bolognesi offer visitors the chance to explore local nature reserves. The province is also known for its exceptional cuisine, particularly the world-famous Bolognese sauce (ragù), and its local food markets, such as the Mercato di Mezzo, where visitors can sample fresh regional products. With its combination of rich history, beautiful landscapes, and exceptional gastronomy, the province of Bologna offers a diverse and rewarding experience for those exploring Emilia-Romagna.
Bologna itself is renowned for its medieval architecture, with its iconic red-tiled roofs, narrow portico-lined streets, and historical buildings. The famous Piazza Maggiore, at the heart of the city, is home to several notable landmarks, including the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo del Podestà. The Two Towers, known as Asinelli and Garisenda, are among the most recognised symbols of the city, while the Archiginnasio, a former university building, houses the Teatro Anatomico and offers a glimpse into Bologna’s long academic history. As a university town, it is also home to one of the oldest universities in the world, adding to the city’s vibrant intellectual and cultural atmosphere.
Beyond the city, the province of Bologna is filled with picturesque villages, rolling hills, and natural parks, making it a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The hills surrounding the city provide stunning views, and places such as the Parco Regionale dei Gessi Bolognesi offer visitors the chance to explore local nature reserves. The province is also known for its exceptional cuisine, particularly the world-famous Bolognese sauce (ragù), and its local food markets, such as the Mercato di Mezzo, where visitors can sample fresh regional products. With its combination of rich history, beautiful landscapes, and exceptional gastronomy, the province of Bologna offers a diverse and rewarding experience for those exploring Emilia-Romagna.
Highlights
- Piazza Maggiore: Bologna's main square, Piazza Maggiore, is the heart of the city and a central gathering place for locals and visitors alike. It is surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Basilica di San Petronio, Palazzo d'Accursio, and the Palazzo dei Banchi.
- Towers of Bologna: The city is famous for its medieval towers, with the iconic Two Towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, being the most well-known. These towers offer panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
- Basilica di San Petronio: This massive Gothic basilica is one of the largest churches in the world and features beautiful frescoes, sculptures, and a sundial on its facade.
- Archiginnasio of Bologna: The historic university building is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and houses an anatomical theater and a stunning library.
- Quadrilatero: Bologna's medieval market district, known as Quadrilatero, is a vibrant area with narrow streets lined with shops, delis, and restaurants. It is a fantastic place to savor traditional Bolognese cuisine.
- Lamborghini Museum: Car enthusiasts can visit the Lamborghini Museum in Sant'Agata Bolognese, showcasing the iconic luxury sports cars.
- Ferrari Museum: Not far from Bologna, in Maranello, is the Ferrari Museum, where visitors can learn about the history and passion behind the legendary Ferrari brand.
- Ducati Museum: Motorcycle enthusiasts can explore the Ducati Museum, located in Borgo Panigale, where they can see the evolution of the iconic Ducati motorcycles.
- Palazzo Fava: This beautiful palace houses the Genus Bononiae Museum, which offers a fascinating journey through Bologna's history and art.
- Bologna's Cuisine: Bologna is renowned for its culinary delights, including fresh pasta, tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese sauce), tortellini, mortadella, and more. It's a paradise for food lovers.
Città Metropolitana di Bologna
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Region: Emilia Romagna
Provincial capital: Bologna Population: 1,018,346 (in 2024 - source) Size: 3,702 km² Comunes: 56 Province code: BO |
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Neighbouring region: Tuscany
