Bologna's cultural scene just hit the jackpot with the triumphant return of Cinema Modernissimo. After two decades hidden away, this historic gem nestled within Palazzo Ronzani has risen from obscurity. The Fondazione Cineteca di Bologna pulled out all the stops to bring back this iconic cinema hall, and the city couldn't be more thrilled.

Once hailed as an artistic marvel, the Modernissimo made its grand debut in 1915, drawing unanimous praise for its exquisite artistry and originality. Designed by Gualtiero Pontoni, this liberty-style cinema became the heartbeat of Bologna's cultural life, hosting various events and screenings for over 90 years. Its revival brings forth not just the cinema but also the re-emergence of the once-h

The Neptune Fountain in Bologna is one of the most iconic monuments in the city. Located just off Piazza Maggiore, this monumental statue was built in the 16th century and has inspired artists, car designers, and generations of locals. From its political symbolism to a visual illusion known as the “stone of shame”, here’s everything you need to know about this majestic fountain—more than you’ll f

Why isn't Neptune in the center of Piazza Maggiore? Originally, the Neptune Fountain was intended to stand in the center of Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square. But in the 1500s, Piazza Maggiore was a lively open-air food market—noisy, crowded, and full of vendors. The central platform of the square, known as the Crescentone, was sometimes used for events, sports, and even naval battles with te

Bologna is a city where art, history, and music intertwine seamlessly. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant Italian city is the Teatro Comunale di Bologna, often referred to as the Bologna Opera House. This iconic venue represents one of Italy’s most significant cultural landmarks, offering a wide range of opera and theatrical performances that enchant visitors from around the globe. If you're a

Does Bologna have an Opera House? Yes, Bologna boasts one of the finest opera houses in the world: the Teatro Comunale di Bologna. This iconic venue is a cornerstone of Bologna’s cultural identity. With its exceptional programming, it continues to attract opera lovers from all corners of the globe. Come and discover the beauty of the Teatro Comunale di Bologna and let yourself be enchanted by the

I'm always suspicious of popular restaurants on TripAdvisor. I had terrible experiences in the past and, even if it's an essential tool to make our food tours in Bologna known, I don't trust it that much. That's probably the reason why it took me so long to visit Trattoria di Via Serra, the #1 restaurant in Bologna on TripAdvisor. But I have another powerful tool in Bologna: very trusted foodies

From the mountains with love

The Carpigiani Gelato Museum stands as a testament to Italy's rich tradition of artisan gelato, offering visitors an immersive journey through its history, cultural significance, and technological advancements. Located in Anzola dell'Emilia, near Bologna, this unique institution delves deep into the evolution of gelato, from its ancient origins to its modern-day artistry

The origins of gelato