The Archiginnasio of Bologna: a Renaissance gem in the heart of the city

 

In the heart of Bologna’s historic center, just a few steps from Piazza Maggiore, stands one of the city’s most fascinating and historically rich buildings: the Archiginnasio. A place where art, architecture, and knowledge meet, symbolizing Bologna’s cultural vocation since the 16th century.

 

History of the Archiginnasio

The Archiginnasio was built between 1562 and 1563 by order of Cardinal Carlo Borromeo and Pope Pius IV, with the aim of bringing together in a single location the various university schools of the city, which had previously been scattered across different buildings.

It became the seat of the University of Bologna – the oldest in the world – until 1803, when teaching activities were moved to Palazzo Poggi.

 

Architecture and decorations

 

 

The Archiginnasio is a Renaissance masterpiece designed by the architect Antonio Morandi, known as “Il Terribilia.” Its elegant exterior portico leads to an inner courtyard surrounded by two-story loggias, adorned with heraldic coats of arms belonging to students and professors from all over Europe.

Inside are two extraordinary rooms:

• The Anatomical Theatre – built in 1637, entirely in spruce wood, and used for anatomy lessons. The ceiling is decorated with a canopy supported by the famous statues of the “Spellati” (“Skinned”).

• The Archiginnasio Library – one of the most important in Italy, holding over 850,000 volumes and manuscripts, including rare works of history, literature, art, and science.

 

What to see today

 

 

Today, the Archiginnasio is open to the public and is a must-see for anyone visiting Bologna. Walking through its corridors means immersing yourself in centuries of culture and admiring an artistic and bibliographic heritage unique in the world.

The rooms can be visited freely, while entry to the Anatomical Theatre requires a small admission fee.

 

Useful information

• Address: Piazza Galvani 1, Bologna

• Opening hours: generally open Monday to Saturday all day; Sunday mornings only (check the official website for updates).

• Admission: free for the library and courtyard; paid entry for the Anatomical Theatre.

 

The Archiginnasio is not just a monument, but a true testament to Bologna’s scholarly spirit. Visiting it means stepping back in time and experiencing the heritage of a city that has always thrived on knowledge and beauty. Come and discover it with one of our tours!