Collezioni Comunali d'Arte (Municipal Art Collection), Bologna

Since 1936, Bologna's Municipal Art Collections have been housed in the former winter residence of the Cardinal Legates within the Municipal Palace ("Palazzo d'Accursio") nestled in the heart of the Main Square ("Piazza Maggiore"). A visit here provides insight into the decor, furnishings, and artistic preferences during the era of papal governance.

In addition to an array of paintings spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary times, this extensive collection encompasses various art objects, furniture pieces, porcelain, textiles, lacework, embroidery, miniatures, and significant wooden crucifixes. Collectively, the collections constitute a "furnished museum", with meticulously preserved halls retaining their original decorations, where the furniture takes center stage.

Of particular distinction is the Urban Hall, dating back to 1630 and subjected to restoration works in 2013-14. Standing as one of Bologna's foremost examples of Baroque architecture, it is distinguished by its heraldic adornments covering the walls. Comprising 188 coats of arms and three figurative scenes, these embellishments have earned the hall its name, the Coat of Arms Hall ("Sala degli Stemmi").