Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore, Bologna Overview

Piazza Maggiore is one of the main squares in the historic center of Bologna. A large, open space surrounded by some of the city's most important landmarks with stunning architecture and a lively atmosphere.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Piazza Maggiore has served as the centre of civic life in Bologna since the 13th century and has been the site of numerous important events over the centuries. It was the location of the coronation of Emperor Charles V in 1530 and it was also the site of public executions and other punishments. Today, Piazza Maggiore is a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists. Visitors can relax at one of the many outdoor cafes and restaurants, take in a street performance or musical event, go shopping or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Piazza Maggiore's beauty, history, and lively atmosphere make it one of the most popular and memorable attractions in the city.

Piazza Maggiore Highlights

1. Neptune Fountain Bologna, Bologna

Neptune Fountain Bologna, Bologna
The Neptune Fountain is situated at the center of Bologna. A bronze statue of the Roman God Neptune, exuding masculinity and godliness, stands imposingly in the middle with a trident in hand. Surround (Read More)ing him are four putti representing the Ganges, the Nile, the Amazon and the Danube rivers.

2. Basilica di San Petronio, Bologna

Basilica di San Petronio, Bologna
The Basilica di San Petronio is the largest church in Piazza Maggiore, located in Piazza Maggiore. Positioned here is the longest sundial in the world, uniquely accurate and precise. The terrace of th (Read More)is church is accessible and offers a delightful view of the surroundings. 

Timings : Monday - Sunday: 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Terrace timings : Saturday and holidays: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (last admission at 12:30 PM), 3:00 PM - 6:30 (last admission at 6:00 PM)

Entry fee : Free

Terrace fee : Adults: EUR 5

Children from 10 to 18 and over 65s: EUR 3

Children under 10: Free

3. Casa di Lucio Dalla

Casa di Lucio Dalla
The Casa di Lucio Dalla was the house of the famous Bolognese singer-songwriter Lucio Dalla near Piazza Maggiore in Bologna. The tour is a sensory walk through the various artifacts, the musician coll (Read More)ected, including many splendid 18th-century Neapolitan nativity scenes and other artworks.

 

The renowned contemporary musician Dalla lived here from 1993 until he passed away in 2012. The Casa was opened to the public in 2019, adding to Bologna’s cultural heritage. The Caruso Room was where the record label Pressing Lines was founded by him. He created some of the most noteworthy music pieces in the relatively smaller Studio di Lucio. In addition, he held on to a portion of the Berlin wall; he wrote a popular song featuring two lovers—one from East and one from West Berlin—in front of this wall.

4. Santa Maria della Vita, Bologna

Santa Maria della Vita, Bologna
The Church of Santa Maria Della Vita is situated in Quadrilatero, the heart of Bologna. This baroque church flaunts the famous Compianto del Cristo Morto (Lamentation over the Dead Christ) sculpture b (Read More)y Niccolò dell'Arca. In Oratorio dei Battuta, you will see another fantastic terracotta scuplture by Alfonso Lombardi—Il Transito della Vergine (Death of the Virgin). The oratory is embellished with intricate frescoes.

Timings : Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM (last admission 6:30 PM)

Entry fee (for Lamentation) : Adults: EUR 5

Students and Children aged 6 to 18: EUR 3

Children under 6: Free

Entry fee (for Lamentation and Oratorio) : Adults: EUR 9

Students and Children aged 6 to 18: EUR 6

Children under 6: Free

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