Above and Below Bologna

October 31, 2011

Bologna may not be as well-known as other parts of Italy but it certainly has it’s share of history. It’s a good idea to take a guided sightseeing tour to familiarise yourself with the area. You will see the Piazza Maggiore with its wonderful Neptune Fountain and the bronze statues of angels, fish and of course Neptune himself towering over them. The piazza is close to many nice places to eat and drink. As it is a pedestrian only you can enjoy the sights of the street performers and musicians. The leaning towers of Bologna aren’t as grand to look at as the one in Pisa but worth seeing nonetheless and climbing up the 500 steps of the tallest one to see a panoramic view of Bologna. You will also see the Palazzo Re Enzo dating back to the 13th century. This is a beautiful palace to see. It is now used as a venue for functions, meetings and events of all kinds.

There is another tour which goes underground which is a fascinating trip to times long ago. You can see the Aposa Torrent, Mario’s Baths, and the Roman Aqueduct covered with red stalagmites and stalactites. Once a long time ago Bologna had a lot in common with Venice and her canals. Today you won’t see the water but it’s still there concealed underground. It is certainly unusual to visit a city both above and below.