Charming Bologna

Situated at the foot of the Apennines, the city of Bologna represents far more than one might initially imagine. In the heart of every scholar, Bologna is firmly established as a university town. What began in 1088 continues to this day - the pursuit of education captivates nearly a third of the residents of this Italian city. However, Bologna is not only seen as the oldest continuously operating university city; in the year 2000, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, marked by historical and cultural sites, was designated the European Capital of Culture. Yet it is also the quaint cafés and pubs, the restored old town, and the youthful vibe of the students that give the city life and make it truly special.

Anyone who has visited Bologna knows that for culture enthusiasts, a treasure trove lies at their feet. History-loving sightseers gather at the Piazza Maggiore, the city's central meeting point. Magnificent palaces adorn the square, and the Basilica di San Petronio draws all attention due to its imposing shadow. On this square alone, one feels nearly overwhelmed by fascination, beauty, and glimpses into the past. For the impressive Basilica di San Petronio could hardly be more significant: Initial constructions in 1390 have yet to be completed, making the facade of the fifth largest church in the world shine with imperfection.

However, even if you think this picturesque building alone casts its protective hand over Bologna, it is the two towers, 'Torre Garisenda' and 'Torre degli Asinelli', that majestically loom over the city. The Torre degli Asinelli stands proud at 100 meters tall, while the Torre Garisenda reaches just half that height. With a lean of 3 meters and 1.20 meters, their silhouette is striking. In the early years, every noble family aimed to erect the tallest tower, and it is these two that have survived intact after the 19th century, while others have been destroyed. Today, the towers impress primarily as a tourist attraction: 498 steps lead up to the Torre degli Asinelli's observation deck - even if you haven't seen much of Bologna yet, you will fall in love with the city at this breathtaking view.

Nevertheless, you must definitely take another step down, as Bologna is adorned with arcades that stretch over a length of 38 kilometers. What once served to accommodate the rapid growth of the city is now a beautiful sight. Therefore, you shouldn't miss taking a leisurely stroll through the city - after all, everything is best explored on foot.

'La Grassa', or in English 'the Fat', is not as negative as it sounds; it is the endearingly chosen nickname for Bologna. Culinary delights play a particularly significant role here, and we dare say that no one can resist the regional dishes. On the contrary, they have made their way to Germany and other parts of the world. What we are talking about here is the home of the delicious tortellini. Everyone knows and loves the pasta traditionally served in meat broth or Bolognese sauce. There is a legend that they represent the navel of the Roman goddess of love, Venus. So, bon appétit!

But tortellini are not the only delicacy originating from Bologna. The thinly sliced mortadella also finds its roots here before being lovingly rolled by children over the deli counter at the corner store. And since we are ultimately in Italy, other beloved dishes like lasagna and tagliatelle are always on the menu. Naturally, a touching story accompanies the origin of tagliatelle: The blonde hair of bride Lucrezia Borgia is said to have inspired a cook to create this dish as a wedding meal. So we also say: Yes - until death do us part.

If your heart is in the right place and you want to follow in the footsteps of academia while enjoying a generous portion of tortellini in the cafeteria - then consider visiting the historic and tradition-rich city of Bologna! And while you're there, you can conveniently and affordably take a train to surrounding cities. Cities like Verona, Venice, or Florence in the Tuscany region are just 1.5 to 2 hours away by train, with prices around €8 per person, one way.