“Explore Bologna like a local,” the sign said, and that is just what we were going to do!  We would do it on foot, though.

The Oratorio dello Spirito Santo is on Via Val d’Aposa, #6.  It dates from 1481.  For me, the most interesting feature of the church’s facade were the five medallions depicting saints, which were the work of Sperandio da Mantova, who was a famous medalist of the time.

The Hotel Novecento opened its doors in 2003, after its owners bought it, and combined the old Hotel Commercianti and the Hotel Orologio.  Both had suffered damages during World War II, and after major renovations, they opened the boutique hotel we see today.

The Hotel Roma has been welcoming guests since 1895.

The side streets off Piazza Maggiore are lined with stores selling all sorts of food and cooking utensils.  I love wandering these streets, looking at all the produce, pasta, and meats on display.

In my opinion, none of the modern skyscrapers being built today can compare with the simple beauty of a medieval tower!

The Casa Caccianemici is at Via de’ Toschi, #11, and dates from the 13th century.  Until 1394, the house was the property of the Passipoveri family, and it was in that year that it passed on to the Caccianemici.

 

Next up: We end our first day in Bologna with a bit more exploring, as well as a drink or two!

 

Note: This blog is written in English and Spanish, and the author takes no responsibility for the quality of any other translations that may appear.  If you have enjoyed this post, please, check out our archives for more posts from Bologna, as well as other Italian destinations.  Grazie!