Historical Churches (Self Guided), Bologna

The historic city of Bologna is one of the most sumptuous medieval places in Italy, as well as one of the country's most visited destinations. There are churches everywhere in the city, many of which are well-preserved and well worth a visit. Magnificent and centuries-old, each of them has its own specialty and history carved into, replete with great historic artifacts associated with world renowned artists.

Such like, for instance, is the San Domenico Basilica that has a Michelangelo statue and a very particular piano that Mozart used to play whilst in Bologna.

Another no less remarkable religious object and a true example of Romanesque architecture is Santo Stefano (St. Stephen Complex) Basilica. Also known as Seven Churches or Holy Jerusalem, it was reportedly started by Saint Petronius himself, the patron saint of the city, and then continued in different styles over the period of 600 years. A definite must-see!

Among other religious sites you may want to visit in Bologna there are:

Basilica of San Petronio – dedicated to Saint Petronius, the most imposing church in the city; built throughout centuries since 1390.

Santa Maria della Vita (the Church of Holy Mary of Life) – established by Franciscan monk Raniero Fasani in 1260; one of its most remarkable attractions is the Lamentation over Dead Christ sculptural group.

San Paolo Maggiore Church – Baroque-style, Roman Catholic basilica commissioned between 1606 and 1611; richly adorned with frescoes, canvases and marble sculptures.

Basilica of San Domenico – one of Bologna’s major churches, holding the remains of Saint Dominic, founder of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans).

To explore these and other majestic churches on your stay in this fascinating old city, follow our self-guided walking tour.