
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- Museum of the History of Medicine: Houses medical artifacts, anatomical models, and historical documents.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.