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Archiginnasio Palace and Anatomical Theater: A Journey Through Bologna's Academic History

Explore Bologna's Archiginnasio Palace: A historic seat of learning, home to the famed Anatomical Theater and a vast municipal library.

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The Archiginnasio Palace, once the main seat of the University of Bologna, now houses the Archiginnasio Municipal Library and the renowned Anatomical Theater. Constructed in the 16th century, the palace is a testament to Bologna's rich academic history and architectural beauty.

A brief summary to Archiginnasio Palace and Anatomical Theater

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Anatomical Theater to see the remarkable "Cattedra degli Spellati," showcasing detailed anatomical sculptures.
  • Check out the opening hours for the Palace and the Anatomical Theater, as they vary on Sundays and holidays.
  • Consider booking a guided tour to access exclusive areas like the Chapel of Santa Maria dei Bulgari and the Cubiculum Artistarum.
  • Note that the Library is not accessible for tourist visits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Piazza Maggiore, walk east along Via d'Azeglio. Turn right onto Piazza Galvani. The Archiginnasio Palace will be on your left. The walk is approximately 3 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near Piazza Galvani. From Bologna Centrale train station, take bus lines 11, 14, 19, 25, or 30 to the Piazza Galvani stop. The Archiginnasio Palace is a short walk from the bus stop. A single bus ticket costs €2.30, or €2.50 if purchased on the bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bologna. A taxi ride from Bologna Centrale train station to Piazza Galvani typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic. The ride is approximately 5-10 minutes.

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Discover more about Archiginnasio Palace and Anatomical Theater

The Archiginnasio Palace, located in the heart of Bologna, stands as a significant landmark of the city's intellectual and architectural heritage. Built between 1562 and 1563 by architect Antonio Morandi, also known as Terribilia, the palace was commissioned by Cardinal Carlo Borromeo with the purpose of unifying the University of Bologna's various schools under one roof. This initiative, spurred by the Council of Trent, aimed to centralize higher education in Bologna. The palace features a long portico with 30 arches and is organized around a central courtyard with a double order of loggias. Inside, grand staircases lead to the upper floor, where the Anatomical Theater and the Stabat Mater Hall are located. The Anatomical Theater, created in 1637 by Antonio Levanti, served as a lecture hall for anatomy teaching. Its design, resembling an ancient Roman amphitheater, includes wooden benches and detailed sculptures, most notably the "Cattedra degli Spellati" with the statues of two skinned men designed by Ercole Lelli. The palace ceased to function as a university in 1803, and in 1838, it became home to the Archiginnasio Municipal Library, the largest library in the Emilia-Romagna region. Despite being damaged during World War II, the Archiginnasio Palace was meticulously restored, preserving its historical and architectural significance. Today, visitors can explore the palace, marvel at the Anatomical Theater, and appreciate the rich history of Bologna's academic past.

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