Movie & TV Filming Locations in Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Bologna, Italy, Bologna, Unique & Fun, Movie & TV Filming Locations

Movie & TV Filming Locations in Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy

1. Le Murate

Former prison turned cultural hub, where parts of 'The English Patient' were filmed.
  • Historical Significance: A remnant of Bologna's past as a city of justice and detention.
  • Cultural Hub: Now hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural events.
  • Architectural Interest: Features a unique blend of historical and contemporary architecture.

2. Piazza Maggiore

Grand city square seen in 'Eat Pray Love' and many other productions.
  • Iconic Landmark: One of the most beautiful squares in Italy, home to numerous historic buildings.
  • Lively Atmosphere: Buzzing with cafes, shops, and street performers during the day.
  • Nighttime Experience: Illuminated at night, offering a stunning backdrop for photos.

3. Basilica di San Domenico

Church from 'Imagine Me & You' and 'The Best Offer'. Its interior is not to be missed.
  • Religious History: An important site for the Dominican Order in Bologna.
  • Artistic Wonders: Houses significant artworks, including the Crucifix by Nicolò Barabino.
  • Architectural Masterpiece: Features a unique Gothic-Romanesque design with a stunning façade.

4. Portico della Mercanzia

Longest portico in Europe and filming location for 'The Borgias'.
  • Historical Structure: One of the oldest covered walkways in the world, dating back to the 14th century.
  • Shopping and Dining: Home to shops, cafes, and local artisans.
  • Weather Protection: Provides shelter from rain or heat while exploring the city.

5. Archiginnasio

Appeared in 'The Best Offer' and 'Buried by the Titanic'. A stunning anatomical theater.
  • Historical Anatomy Theater: Originally used for public dissection demonstrations.
  • Beautiful Architecture: Features intricate frescoes and an ornate wooden ceiling.
  • Museum of the History of Medicine: Houses medical artifacts, anatomical models, and historical documents.

6. Torre Asinelli

Climb the leaning tower seen in 'The Borgias' for breathtaking city views.
  • Historic Tower: One of the oldest towers in Bologna, dating back to the 12th century.
  • Challenging Climb: The narrow staircase has 498 steps to reach the top.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers a unique perspective of Bologna's rooftops and red-tiled structures.

7. Palazzo Pepoli Nobili

Palace featured in 'The Best Offer', showcasing stunning Baroque architecture.
  • Baroque Beauty: Features ornate frescoes, marble columns, and intricate stuccoes.
  • Private Museum: Houses the Pepoli Collection of artworks, including paintings by Carracci.
  • Historical Significance: Has been a residence for prominent families and was once a seminary.

8. Palazzo Re Enzo

Medieval palace used as a location in 'The Best Offer' and 'Casanova'.
  • Medieval Architecture: One of the oldest palaces in Bologna, dating back to the 13th century.
  • Historical Prison: Once housed important prisoners, including Re Enzo, son of Emperor Frederick II.
  • Artistic Wonders: Features frescoes by Lorenzetti and ornate decorations inside.

9. Piazza Santo Stefano

Complex of seven churches featured in 'The English Patient' and 'Angels & Demons'.
  • Religious Heritage: A unique ensemble of interconnected churches dating back to the 6th century.
  • Architectural Diversity: Showcases various architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque.
  • Historical Significance: Each church has its own history and significance within the complex.

10. Osteria del Sole

Restaurant where scenes from 'Eat Pray Love' were filmed.
  • Historic Tavern: One of the oldest taverns in Bologna, dating back to the 15th century.
  • Traditional Emilian Cuisine: Serves regional specialties like tortellini and lasagna.
  • Cozy Atmosphere: Features original exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and a warm, inviting ambiance.

11. Palazzo Ducale

Palace used as the Vatican Secret Archives in 'Angels & Demons'.
  • Renaissance Masterpiece: Features stunning frescoes by Ludovico Carracci.
  • Historical Significance: Houses the Archivio di Stato, with documents dating back to the Middle Ages.
  • Art Museum: The Pinacoteca Nazionale is located within the palace, featuring masterpieces by Carracci and Guercino.

12. Porta Saragozza

One of Bologna's oldest gates, filmed in 'Eat Pray Love'.
  • Historical Gate: Dating back to the Middle Ages, it is one of the original five city gates.
  • Architectural Interest: Features a distinctive tower and beautiful frescoes on its facade.
  • Local Market: Adjacent to the gate is a vibrant market selling fresh produce, cheeses, and other local delicacies.

13. Basilica di Santo Stefano

One of the seven churches in Piazza Santo Stefano, featured in 'Angels & Demons'.
  • Historical Church: Dating back to the 6th century, it is one of the oldest churches in Bologna.
  • Religious Art: Features artworks by Guido Reni and Cesare Dandini.
  • Symbolic Significance: Has been a place of worship for various Christian denominations over the centuries.

14. Porta Lame

One of Bologna's best-preserved city gates, filmed in 'Eat Pray Love'.
  • Historical Gate: Dating back to the Middle Ages, it is one of the original five city gates.
  • Architectural Interest: Features a unique design with a small tower and beautiful frescoes.
  • Local Market: Adjacent to the gate is a vibrant market selling fresh produce, cheeses, and other local delicacies.

15. Teatro Anatomico

Anatomical theater where scenes from 'The Best Offer' were filmed.
  • Historical Anatomy Theater: Originally used for public dissection demonstrations.
  • Medical Museum: Houses anatomical models, medical artifacts, and historical documents.
  • Scientific Importance: Played a crucial role in the development of anatomy studies in Bologna.