Palazzo Bolognini (Bolognini Palace), Bologna

The senatorial palace in Saint Stephen Square exemplifies the refined taste of the Bolognese Renaissance. Its construction began in 1517. While the building process faced initial interruptions, the monumental building and its iconic main frontage were fully completed by 1560.

The entire facade is covered with intricate terracotta busts, protruding from circular niches, sparking the curiosity of passersby. One can spot a diverse array of figures including ladies, warriors, gods, and notably, a demon or possibly a satyr, positioned prominently at the center. While the rationale behind this placement remains unclear, similar demonic faces can be observed on other buildings around town.

Since the 1800s, the palace has been home to various occupants, with one of the most notable being the Society of the Nobles' Casino, which held residence on the first floor from 1823 to 1855. The club organized performances by renowned composers such as Donizetti, Haydn, and Rossini, whose opera "William Tell", staged in 1836 during Lent, caused a significant commotion with the authorities and police.

Over the years, the noble floor also hosted the Monarchist People's Club, the Fighters' Circle, the Royal Corps of Civil Engineering, and the British Council until 1990. Not to forget that the ground floor has been occupied since 1916 by the Gas Company, the Gas Lighting Company, and the Pezzoli Company, specializing in wine instruments, which continues to operate there to this day.