Medieval Civic Museum

The Medieval Civic Museum of Bologna, located in the charming Ghisilardi-Fava Palace, is an institution of great historical and cultural importance. Inaugurated in 1985, the museum houses a vast collection of works and artifacts that testify to the richness of the Bolognese and Italian Middle Ages. The Ghisilardi-Fava Palace, a masterpiece of Bolognese Renaissance architecture, dates back to the 15th century and is already one of the main attractions of the museum. Its frescoed rooms, coffered ceilings, and elegant decorations make the environment ideal for hosting the medieval collections. The museum’s collection covers a wide time span, from the 6th to the 16th century, and includes sculptures, weapons, ceramics, glassware, ivories, illuminated manuscripts, and musical instruments. Among the most precious pieces stands out the “Funerary Monument of Rolandino de’ Passeggeri”, a 14th-century sculpture by Giovanni di Balduccio, which represents one of the most significant examples of medieval funerary art. This monument, originally located in the cloister of San Domenico, is famous for its refinement and the complexity of its decorations. Another masterpiece of the museum is the “Painted Cross” by Giunta Pisano, dating back to around 1250. This cross, one of the oldest and most important paintings preserved in Bologna, is an example of the transition between Byzantine and Gothic styles, with a dramatic and intense representation of the crucified Christ. The Medieval Civic Museum also houses an extraordinary collection of medieval ivories, among which stands out the “Consular Diptych” from 517 AD, depicting scenes from the life of Emperor Anastasius I. These finely carved and decorated ivories testify to the high skill of medieval craftsmen and the importance of the material in the art and culture of the time. The section dedicated to weapons and armor offers a complete overview of the evolution of military tools from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Among the most relevant pieces are swords, armor, helmets, and shields, which tell the techniques of combat and military life of the time. Of particular interest is a magnificent jousting armor, finely decorated and belonging to a Bolognese nobleman of the 16th century. The museum also houses a collection of medieval ceramics, documenting the evolution of ceramic processing and decoration techniques. Among the most significant works are majolica vases decorated with geometric and floral motifs, representing the art and culture of the ceramic workshops of Bologna and other Italian cities. The collection of medieval musical instruments is another attraction of the museum, with unique pieces such as the “Lute of Gherardello da Firenze” from the 14th century. These instruments, which also include harps, flutes, and drums, offer a glimpse into the music and musical traditions of the Middle Ages, allowing visitors to imagine the melodies that resonated in the courts and squares of the time. Another strength of the museum is its attention to the conservation and restoration of works. Thanks to a team of expert restorers, the museum is able to preserve and enhance its heritage, ensuring that works of art and artifacts can be admired by future generations. The museum’s restoration laboratories are equipped with the most modern technologies and collaborate with national and international institutions for the preservation of cultural heritage. The central location of the Medieval Civic Museum, a few steps from the Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore, makes it easily accessible and a must-visit for those exploring Bologna. The museum is set in an urban context rich in history and art, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the medieval atmosphere of the city.