The porticoes of Bologna.
A special feature of Bologna is its 40 kilometres of porticoes, meanwhile a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Middle Ages, a law required this type of construction in order to create housing space for the expanding city. Today it is a wonderful experience to stroll through the pleasant shady porticoes at any time of year and discover the extensive city centre with its historic squares, churches and palaces.
Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda – the two leaning towers.
Bologna’s landmark is its skyline, which is characterised by two leaning historical towers: the “Torre degli Asinelli” and its neighbouring tower, the “Garisenda”. At 97.2 metres, the Asinelli is the world’s highest leaning medieval tower. And you can even climb it by taking its spiral staircase of around 500 steps which lead right to the top. Don’t let this put you off – you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view!
FICO Eataly World Bologna.
Welcome to the paradise of culinary delights! Enjoy delicious Italian specialities in the world’s largest food park over an area of around 100,000 square metres. By the way, the name “FICO” stands for “Fabbrica Italiana Contadina” (Italy’s agri-food park) as well as for the fruit “fico” (fig), which also can be seen in the logo oft the food park. Fun fact: The Italian bicycle manufacturer, Bianchi, produced 500 three-wheeler bikes especially for FICO, which you can use to get around the huge grounds. The bike’s two baskets offer plenty of space for your purchases.
A highlight for foodies.
If you want to experience authentic Italian cuisine, you should travel to Bologna. Mortadella sausage, also known as Bologna, and Tortellini pasta are renowned worldwide. Even today, these small filled dumplings are made by hand in fine kitchens and each tortellino is a small masterpiece. Green tagliatelle made with spinach is also famous. But don’t expect to see “spaghetti Bolognese” on the menu of a typical Bologna osteria. The dish known worldwide under that name is called “ragù alla bolognese” here, and is served with tagliatelle, tortellini or gnocchi.
