Palazzo Davia Bargellini

Palazzo Davia Bargellini, located on Strada Maggiore in Bologna, is a fine example of seventeenth-century architecture, combining Baroque elements with a unique Renaissance style. Built in 1638 by Camillo Bargellini and designed by architect Bartolomeo Provaglia, the palace stands out for its grandeur and the absence of the traditional portico structure, leaving an open space in front of the basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi. The facade of the palace is characterized by a grand portal, adorned with two imposing telamons in stone: the figure on the right, by Gabriele Brunelli, and the one on the left, by his student Francesco Agnesini. These telamons, sculpted in 1658, give the palace a majestic and solemn appearance, representing mythological figures that seem to support the entire building with their Herculean strength. The interior of the palace is no less impressive. The staircase, designed by Carlo Francesco Dotti and built by Alfonso Torreggiani around 1730, is one of the most significant parts of the building. The stuccoes decorating the staircase, the work of Giuseppe Borelli, add a touch of elegance and sophistication, with motifs inspired by mythology and nature. Since 1920, Palazzo Davia Bargellini has housed the Civic Museum of Industrial Art and the Davia Bargellini Gallery, established by superintendent Francesco Malaguzzi Valeri. The museum preserves and presents a vast collection of applied art objects, furniture, ceramics, textiles, and musical instruments that offer a glimpse into daily life and Bolognese craftsmanship from the Renaissance to the nineteenth century. Among the most valuable pieces in the collection are Italian and European ceramic works, rich carved and gilded wooden furnishings, and refined textiles that tell stories of a wealthy and industrious Bologna. Particularly interesting is the section dedicated to musical instruments, which includes rare and precious pieces, a testament to the city’s lively musical tradition. The museum also houses a series of portraits and paintings documenting the history of the Bargellini family and other noble Bolognese families. These portraits, created by talented artists, offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives and personalities that have inhabited and animated the palace over the centuries. Of great interest is the reconstruction of interiors of Bolognese noble residences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Renaissance and Baroque Bologna. This detailed reconstruction offers a unique experience, combining history, art, and culture. Palazzo Davia Bargellini is not just a historic monument, but also a vibrant and dynamic cultural center. The museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions, cultural events, and educational activities that engage audiences of all ages. These events provide an opportunity to deepen knowledge of Bolognese history and art, promoting dialogue between past and present. An interesting anecdote concerns Camillo Bargellini’s decision to forgo the traditional Bolognese portico for his palace. This choice, very innovative at the time, was likely motivated by the desire to differentiate the building from other city palaces, giving it a unique and distinctive character. This architectural decision has helped create a visual dialogue between the palace and the basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi, located in front, creating a visually striking effect.