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Museo Civico Medievale: Bologna's Medieval Heart

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Discover Bologna's medieval past in a stunning Renaissance palace, filled with art, artifacts, and historical treasures.

Housed in the stunning Palazzo Ghisilardi Fava, the Museo Civico Medievale offers a captivating journey into Bologna's medieval and Renaissance past. Explore artifacts, sculptures, arms and armor, and illuminated manuscripts that narrate the city's rich history.

A brief summary to Museo Civico Medievale

  • Tuesday 10 am-2 pm
  • Wednesday 2 pm-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-2 pm
  • Friday 2 pm-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-7 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Museo Civico Medievale.

  • Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience, as weekends tend to be more crowded.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Bologna's historic center to fully appreciate the city's culture.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Museo Civico Medievale is located in the heart of Bologna's historic center, making it easily accessible on foot from many central landmarks. From Piazza Maggiore, walk north along Via Ugo Bassi, then turn right onto Via Manzoni. The museum will be on your left within a few minutes. Walking from the Two Towers takes approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Buses are a convenient way to reach the museum. Several bus lines stop near the museum, including lines 32 and 33 which run around the city walls. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bologna. A short taxi ride from the Bologna Centrale train station to the museum will cost approximately €10-€15. You can hail a taxi from the street or find them at designated taxi stands.

Discover more about Museo Civico Medievale

The Museo Civico Medievale, located in the heart of Bologna at Palazzo Ghisilardi Fava, transports visitors back to the city's golden age during the medieval era. Since 1985, the museum has occupied this magnificent Renaissance palace, contributing to the historical narrative of Bologna through its extensive collections.The museum showcases a diverse array of medieval and Renaissance art and artifacts. Highlights include Lombard artifacts, a Saxon bronze aquamanile, and the copper and wood statue of Boniface VIII crafted in 1301 by Manno Bandini. The collection also features remarkable sculpted tombs of teaching scholars, reflecting Bologna's esteemed academic tradition.Visitors can explore themed rooms displaying ancient weapons and armor, exquisite pottery, and textiles, providing insights into daily life, culture, and artistic achievements of the period. The museum also boasts a collection of illuminated books, showcasing Bologna's tradition in miniature art. The palace itself, with some rooms featuring frescoes by the Carracci family, adds to the enchanting experience.

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