Among the most iconic peculiarities of the Emilian capital, the arcades of Bologna stand out: a real symbol of the city. If Bologna is already a city full of charm and history, capable of conquering visitors from all over the world with its unique mix of culture, gastronomy and architecture, since 2021 it has seen its arcades recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With over 62 km in length, the arcades offer not only shelter from rain and sun, but also a journey through the centuries, between historic buildings, artisan shops and suggestive views. What is the story that hides behind the famous arcades of Bologna? What makes them still a large destination at national and international level today? Let's find out together.
The origins of the arcades of Bologna
The history of the arcades of Bologna has its roots in remote periods, since the time of knights and bridesmaids. It happened precisely at the time of the Middle Ages, in fact, that the city, already hosting the first university office of Europe, had to find a solution to respond to the strong growth of the population and consequence of requests for homes.
It opted at the time for an expansion of the houses through the construction of elevated structures supported by columns. This is how what is known today as a portico today: a covered space adopted both for private and public buildings, today the symbol of the city.
At the passage of the eras, the conformations of these covered spaces have also changed. Today, in fact, walking under the Bolognese arcades, you can admire different architectural styles, from the Gothic to the Renaissance to the modern.
The arcades of Bologna: a treasure to be discovered
Whether you are visiting Bologna for the first time, whether you want to deepen the knowledge of the city, a walk under its arcades is an unmissable experience. In addition to protecting yourself from summer heat or winter rain, they allow you to immerse yourself in history and authentic Bolognese atmosphere.
Bologna Illuminati Portici: an experience not to be missed
Visiting Bologna in the evening gives a magical atmosphere, especially thanks to the Illuminati Bologna arcades. Towards the evening, the soft lights of the sun that sets and the first lighting on the street enhances the beauty of these architecture, creating a game of shadows and reflections that makes a walk in the heart of the city even more suggestive.
During the Christmas period or on the occasion of special events, the Bologna arcades illuminated by lights and light installations of all sorts become even more scenographic: every corner of the city becomes even more welcoming and fascinating.
The walk to San Luca under the arcades of Bologna
A fascinating itinerary is the one that crosses the arcades of Piazza Maggiore, via dell'Ondenalandenza and Strada Maggiore, up to the famous Torre degli Asinelli. However, it is the walk to San Luca who gives a breathtaking experience.
It is the longest porch in the world, that of San Luca: with its 3,796 meters connects the city center to the sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, offering an unforgettable and truly suggestive panoramic walk, with a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding hills.
What to see in Bologna walking under the arcades
If you are wondering what to see in Bologna, know that many of the most interesting places in the city are located just along its arcades. Here are some unmissable stages:
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Piazza Maggiore and the porch of the Pavaglione : one of the most elegant stretches, which connects the Basilica of San Petronio to the Archiginnasio, home to the historic city library.
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Via Zamboni : beating heart of university life, where arcades are animated by students, historical cafés and bookstores.
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The paintings painted in via Saragozza : decorated with splendid frescoes, tell stories of Bolognese saints and nobles.
Book your stay in Bologna now
Are you organizing a visit to Bologna and you want to find a hotel in the city to comfortably explore the arcades of Bologna? Then Hotel Maggiore is the perfect choice.
We are waiting for you to make you live a stay in the name of the comfort and beauty of this unique city in the world, helping you to discover and appreciate any facets, from history to modern art, from culinary traditions to sporting and musical events that move the city at every time of the year!
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