Bologna Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Bologna

Bologna is the Emilia-Romagna region's capital. This large northern city is the seventh most populous city in Italy and has been a vital cultural center for millennia.

Archeological discoveries indicate the area has been settled since the third millennium BC. First, the Etruscans settled the area, then the Celts, and then the Romans. During the Middle Ages, Bologna was a free municipality and one of the largest cities in Europe.

During the fifth century, Bishop Petronius, later Bologna's patron saint, rebuilt Bologna after the Goths damaged it. The University of Bologna, established in 1088, is the oldest in the Western world. Long-standing educational tradition gives Bologna an energetic character.

Today, visitors can soak up the fascinating history, gorgeous architecture, and vibrant culture of old Bologna. The Piazza Maggiore is the cultural and geographical heart of the city. Many of the magnificent buildings in the square date to the 14th and 15th centuries.

Visitors will find the Accursio Palace, home of the Salaborsa Library. From the library, visitors can see ruins dating back to the seventh century BC. The Basilica of San Petronio dates to the late 14th century and dominates Piazza Maggiore. The Fountain of Neptune is another don't-miss site in the ancient square.

Visitors interested in the religious history of Bologna will love the St. Stephen Complex. Seven historical sites remind the faithful of Jerusalem and Jesus's life and resurrection. The oldest church in this complex, the Church of the Saints Vitale and Agricola, was built before 393 AD. Several impressive towers dominate the skyline. Visitors will love climbing the tallest leaning tower in Italy, the Asinelli Tower.

Take this self-guided tour to explore the impressive history and culture of Bologna.