Porticoes of Bologna

The porticoes of Bologna represent one of the most distinctive features of the city, a symbol recognized worldwide that encapsulates centuries of history, architecture, and social life. With a total length of almost 62 kilometers, 40 of which are in the historic center alone, the porticoes of Bologna offer shelter from the weather and a unique environment for walking, shopping, and socializing. Their origins date back to the High Middle Ages, when wooden projections (sporti) began to be built to expand living spaces without encroaching on public land. The first historical evidence of the porticoes dates back to the year 1041, highlighting how this architectural solution was already present in the early stages of urban expansion. The porticoes began to proliferate especially from 1288, when a municipal decree established that all new houses should be equipped with a portico, and existing ones should add one if they did not have it. This decree allowed for an increase in available living space without compromising street accessibility. Over time, wooden porticoes were gradually replaced by stone or brick structures, following a decree issued in 1568 by the Papal governor Giovanni Battista Doria. During the Renaissance, the porticoes of Bologna acquired an even more significant role. Notable examples from this period include the side portico of the basilica of San Giacomo Maggiore and the portico of the Palazzo Bolognini-Isolani. These porticoes not only offered shelter and protection but also became spaces of representation, decorated with refined architectural elements and artistic motifs. The Pavaglione portico, for example, measuring 139 meters long and consisting of 30 arches, is one of the most elegant and representative in the city. This portico, which connects Via De’ Musei to Piazza Galvani, hosts the traditional silk worm market, from which it derives its name. One of the most famous porticoes in Bologna is undoubtedly that of San Luca. With its 3,796 meters in length and 666 arches, it is the longest portico in the world. Built between 1674 and 1721, the portico of San Luca connects Porta Saragozza to the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca, located on top of the Colle della Guardia. This devotional path was created with the contribution of the entire community and represents an extraordinary example of community participation and religious faith. Over the centuries, the porticoes of Bologna have hosted a myriad of commercial, artisanal, and social activities. In addition to providing shelter from the weather, the porticoes have facilitated the development of commerce and artisanal activities, making the streets of Bologna lively centers of exchange and interaction. Even today, walking under the porticoes means immersing oneself in an environment rich in history and culture, where past and present harmoniously intertwine. The significance of the porticoes of Bologna was officially recognized in 2021, when a part of them was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition emphasizes the architectural, cultural, and social importance of these extraordinary urban elements, which continue to be a distinctive symbol of the city. Among the most significant porticoes outside the historic center is the portico degli Alemanni, approximately 650 meters long and composed of 167 arches. Built between 1619 and 1631, it connects the church of Santa Maria Lacrimosa degli Alemanni to Porta Maggiore. Another notable example is the portico della Certosa, which leads to the Monumental Cemetery of the Certosa di Bologna. Designed by Ercole Gasparini, this portico was started in 1811 and represents an important devotional and historical path.