You’re now in front of the entrance to Corte Isolani, and above you is one of the oldest houses in Bologna! Look up and follow the wooden beams. You’ll spot a small home perched above the walkway, dating back to the 13th century. It’s a remarkable sight, built on stilts supported by wooden columns that rise 9 meters high. Feel free to walk beneath it to enter the Corte Isolani gallery, a covered passageway created in 1995 that’s now full of shops, restaurants, and exhibition spaces. It’s part of Palazzo Isolani, owned by the noble family of the same name. The palace runs along Strada Maggiore, and if you continue through the gallery, you’ll reach Piazza Santo Stefano. Before heading through, take a moment to turn around and look at the large house to your right. This is Casa Rossini, the home of the legendary composer Gioachino Rossin, before he moved to Paris. Regarded as one of the greatest composers of the 19th century,Rossini composed over 240 works, many of which are still considered masterpieces of opera today. You’re looking at the former residence of a true opera genius! Take a moment to enjoy the surrounding architecture before stepping into the Corte Isolani gallery.