Via Indipendenza (Independence Street), Bologna (must see)

Independence Street is one of Bologna’s principal thoroughfares and the main north–south route connecting the central railway station with Main Square. Created in its present form during the 1880s, it broadly follows the route of the ancient Roman main north–south road. Its construction formed part of Bologna’s late-19th-century modernization, providing a direct and impressive connection between the expanding railway district and the historic center.

The liveliest section extends from the Arena of the Sun Theatre southward to the junction with Rizzoli Street and Ugo Bassi Street. Along this stretch, elegant shops, cafés, banks, street stalls, and commercial buildings stand beneath long arcades. The street brings together several periods of Bologna’s history: medieval and Renaissance buildings stand beside 19th-century structures designed in historical revival styles, while traditional architecture accommodates modern retailers and businesses. The porticoes provide welcome shelter from both the summer heat and rain, making the street one of the city’s busiest promenades throughout the day.

As you approach the southern end, look for the distinctive Majani Building at number 4. Designed by Augusto Sezanne and completed in 1908 for the historic Majani chocolate company, it originally housed the firm’s café and offices. Although the building now contains a clothing shop, its Art Nouveau details remain easy to identify. Look closely at the floral decorations on the capitals supporting the portico and the delicate wrought-iron railings of the upper balconies.

Continuing south, Independence Street passes Bologna’s Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Peter before opening onto the central squares. For visitors arriving by train, it provides a straightforward introduction to the city, combining shopping and street life with historic porticoes, theatres, churches, and architecture from several different periods.