Major Road

Strada Maggiore is one of the most iconic streets in Bologna, a route that crosses the heart of the city and tells its history through its buildings, churches, and palaces. Formerly known as “Strata Maior,” the name reflects its Roman origins as part of the Via Emilia, one of the main roads connecting Rome to northern Italy. The street still retains a significant part of its historical character today, offering a journey through time to those who walk along it. Along Strada Maggiore, you can admire some of the most important monuments in Bologna. Among these stand out the Basilica of Saints Bartolomeo and Gaetano, with its majestic Baroque facade and interiors rich in works of art by artists such as Francesco Albani and Guido Reni. The basilica was elevated to a minor basilica by Pope Pius XI and represents a religious and artistic landmark of the city. Not far away is the Basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi, another architectural gem dating back to the 14th century. The basilica is famous for its portico, which surrounds the square in front and creates a space of great suggestion. Inside, you can admire works by Vitale da Bologna and Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli, which contribute to making this place a treasure trove of artistic treasures. Strada Maggiore also hosts numerous historic palaces that testify to Bologna’s noble and mercantile past. Among these, Palazzo Rossini stands out, purchased in 1822 by the famous composer Gioachino Rossini, who lived there for about twenty years. This palace is an example of how art and music found a home within the ancient walls of the city. Another notable palace is Palazzo Hercolani, built in the 18th century and now home to the School of Political Sciences at the University of Bologna. This building is a perfect example of neoclassical architecture and a place where academic and political history intertwine. The street also has a significant political and social dimension. During the Risorgimento, Strada Maggiore was renamed Via Giuseppe Mazzini in honor of the Italian patriot. This name change reflects the importance of the street as a symbol of freedom and national unity. Although the original name was later restored, the historical legacy of the Risorgimento period remains engraved in the stones of this ancient street.