Bologna: Self-Guided Historical Audio Tour – Emilia-Romagna, Italy

EXPERIENCE:

Explore the reasons behind the many names of Bologna. Admire the red roofs of the city that are the reason for it being called “the red city.” Feast on the delectable cuisine that gives Bologna the name “the fat city.”
Marvel at the forest of over 100 towers that once dotted the landscape of the city, also known as “the towered.” Walk the ground of the world’s oldest university, the reason that Bologna is sometimes referred to as “the cultured”.
Learn about each facet of the city on this walking tour, as well as its history and stories, like how the rebellious Bolognese stopped the city from becoming the Vatican.
Discover how the Fountain of Neptune’s sculptor got away with making Neptune seem particularly well-endowed despite prohibition from the church while at the Piazza del Nettuno.
Gaze up at the Whispering Gallery under the Torre dell Arengo while being told about how star-crossed lovers were able to murmur sweet nothings to each other without their other romantic partners knowing.
Hear about the legends of Le Tre Frecce and catch a glimpse of how Bologna once resembled Venice with its network of canals and rivers while passing Canale delle Moline. Then, walk down Via Indipendenza and see what it would have been like in the post-Risorgimento period.

Have the opportunity to see San Petronio, the largest and most important church of the city before strolling down Via Rizzoli, named after a 19th-century physician. Hear about Giuseppe Garibaldi, the hero of two countries.
Pass by Il Pincio, the entrance to Parco della Montagnola, a French style garden commissioned by Napoleon. Take in Garisenda and Asinelli, Bologna’s Two Towers. Stand beside Porta Galliera, where a retreating Austrian army left the city following a rebellion by the Bolognese in 1848.
Learn about the city’s history from the Etruscans and the Lombards, including the chaotic factional fighting between the Guelphs and Ghibellines. Discover the Quadrilatero neighbourhood with its cafes and restaurants, and find out about the seven churches of Santo Stefano.

Finally, explore the culinary wonders of the city responsible for iconic dishes like lasagna, ragu, and tagliatelle. These recipes were born and fiercely guarded in the chamber of commerce. Then see the cafés, restaurants and shops where you can allow your tummy and taste buds to be tempted by these culinary marvels.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Learn how the rebellious Bolognese stopped the city from becoming the Vatican
Hear from producer Mike Corradi, the author behind A History of Italy Podcast
Take your time going at your own pace, or go faster if you’re pressed for time
Discover enchanting and titivating stories from a deeply historically rich city
Marvel at ancient architecture and culture, and learn about delicious cuisine

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