Biblioteca Comunale dell'Archiginnasio

Bologna is La Rossa, La Grassa, but above all, La Dotta! You're now standing before one of the city’s great symbols, a place that has drawn some of the brightest minds of every era. Stretching along one side of Piazza Galvani, you’ll see the Palazzo dell’Archiginnasio, just behind the Basilica of San Petronio. This elegant, long building once housed the University of Bologna. It was built in the 16th century by Antonio Morandi, and it quickly became one of the city’s most significant landmarks. It’s been home to the municipal library since 1838. Inside, you’ll find a collection of over 850,000 volumes, including 120,000 rare books and 7,000 periodicals. Most of the collection focuses on the humanities and Bologna’s history. It’s a real treasure trove, and a great source of pride for the city!