Inaugurated in 2001 inside Palazzo d'Accursio, the seat of the Municipality, the Salaborsa Bologna library overlooks Piazza Nettuno and is the cultural center of the city.
The latest restoration work on the Salaborsa Library has brought back to life a rich heritage of archaeological finds , which can be seen by all tourists and visitors thanks to the open paving of the current Piazza Coperta.
From the Villanovans to the Etruscan Felzna, up to the Roman Bononia, a visit to the Salaborsa Library will allow you to see the results of the stratification of the various civilizations that have occupied the Bolognese territory over the centuries.
Stories from distant times
Traces of public and religious buildings testify to how the space where the Salaborsa Library is located today was once the beating heart of Bolognese city life.
From the Roman era to the 13th century
Intended for public functions in Roman times, the Salaborsa Bologna library is located in an area that has undergone multiple transformations over time. During the Middle Ages, a general impoverishment of the area led to a significant reduction in civic buildings, until the 13th century, when the area underwent a new phase of renewal.
In particular, this last historical period is characterized by the presence of civil buildings constructed with quality materials and of high architectural quality, belonging primarily to Ghibelline families. Among these, we remember the family of the jurist and legal expert Francesco Accursio, who gave his name to the historic municipal building.
From the Middle Ages to the Modern Age
In the mid-13th century, the area of the Salaborsa library underwent another transformation which consisted of the complete demolition of the previous remains and the erection of a late-Romanesque style building, of which today we remember the suggestive portico overlooking the square.
Subsequently, in the final decades of the 20th century, the building became the seat of municipal administrative offices. Restoration work on the area began only in 1999, in preparation for the redevelopment of the Piazza Maggiore Urban Park, which finally marked the new use of the Salaborsa Bologna Library as a place of culture and knowledge.
The Salaborsa Library in Bologna today
The latest renovations to the Salaborsa Library have respected the existing structure, which has developed over seven centuries of history. Today, visitors can admire the various stages along the suspended walkway , which serves as a historical itinerary for viewing the archaeological excavations beneath the glass floor.
Starting from the perimeter wall of the Renaissance fountain built by Terribilia, a nickname given to a group of architects belonging to the same family, active mainly in the 16th century, and in addition to the foundations of the Roman basilica, it is possible to see the star-shaped fountain, once located at the center of the garden and a symbol of the cultural significance of the new Salaborsa library.
Book your stay in Bologna now and visit the Salaborsa
Bologna is a city truly rich in history, culture, and art. If you're planning a weekend getaway or want to visit Bologna, or are attending an event in the city like a fair, concert, or sporting competition, Hotel Maggiore can offer you all the comfort you deserve. Our hotel is near the historic center: it enjoys an excellent location, allowing you to reach all the city's main attractions quickly.
We can offer you customized solutions between rooms and residences, as well as a series of services that will make your visit to the city unique, including the possibility of organizing guided tours in all languages, including a Chinese tour guide.
We have agreements with the main local establishments and can provide you with useful advice and suggestions on things to see and eat in Bologna, so you can fully enjoy all the wonders of our splendid city.
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