Church of San Michele in Bosco: A Panoramic Sanctuary

Discover panoramic views, Renaissance architecture, and a unique optical illusion at this historic church and monastery complex in Bologna.

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Church of San Michele in Bosco

The Church of San Michele in Bosco, perched atop a hill overlooking Bologna, offers stunning views and a rich history. Originally a monastic site dating back to the 4th century, the current Renaissance structure houses artistic treasures and a unique optical illusion, making it a worthwhile visit.

A brief summary to Church of San Michele in Bosco

Piazzale di S. Michele in Bosco, 3, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, 40136, IT
+390516366328

Monday 9 am-12 pm
Tuesday 9 am-12 pm
Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
Thursday 9 am-12 pm
Friday 9 am-12 pm
Saturday 9 am-12 pm
Sunday 9 am-12 pm

Local tips

Visit the "Telescope" in the presbytery for a unique optical illusion that makes the Asinelli Tower appear closer.
Explore the octagonal cloister, a rare architectural feature, and imagine the frescoes that once adorned its walls.
Take bus number 30 from the city center (Via Rizzoli) to avoid a steep uphill walk.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Bologna city center, the most convenient way to reach the Church of San Michele in Bosco is by bus. Take bus line 30 from Via Rizzoli. The journey takes approximately 10-20 minutes, and the bus stops near the church. A single ticket costs €2.30 if purchased in advance or €2.50 if purchased on the bus.
Walking

For those who enjoy a scenic walk, start from Porta San Mamolo, just outside the city walls. Follow Via San Mamolo, then take Via Alessandro Codivilla. This route leads to the park of San Michele in Bosco, from where a winding road takes you to the church entrance. The walk is approximately 1.4 km and involves an uphill climb. Allow about 30 minutes for a leisurely stroll.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Bologna. A taxi ride from the city center to the Church of San Michele in Bosco typically costs between €11 and €26, depending on the distance and time of day. Note that it's not possible to hail a taxi on the street; instead, go to a taxi stand or book one by phone or app.

Discover more about Church of San Michele in Bosco

The Church of San Michele in Bosco is part of an imposing architectural complex that includes the church and the adjacent former convent of the Olivetans. Located on one of the most scenic spots in the hills surrounding Bologna, its courtyard serves as a magnificent terrace with views of the city stretching out to the Alpine chain. The complex has ancient origins, with monastic structures existing on the site as early as the 4th century AD. The church was rebuilt several times, with the Olivetan monks settling here in 1364. The current appearance of the church largely dates back to the 15th century, with significant restoration work undertaken between 1517 and 1523. The Renaissance facade is attributed to Biagio Rossetti, while the marble portal was designed by Baldassarre Peruzzi. Inside, the church features a single nave with four side chapels and a presbytery. The convent, completed in the late 16th century, boasts an octagonal cloister, a unique feature in Bologna's monastic landscape. The cloister was once adorned with frescoes by Ludovico Carracci and his studio, though unfortunately, only fragments of these remain today. Over the centuries, the complex has served various purposes. During the Napoleonic era, it was used as barracks and a prison. Later, it became a residence for the Papal Legate and the King of Italy. In the late 19th century, the Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute chose San Michele in Bosco as its headquarters, a function it continues to serve today. One of the highlights is the "Telescope," a long corridor in the old convent that creates an optical illusion, making the Asinelli Tower appear much closer than it is. The complex also houses the Umberto I Library, containing a significant collection of texts, including ancient manuscripts and works on orthopedics.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

San Michele In Bosco

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Unmissable attractions to see

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Palazzo Ruini

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Church of San Michele in Bosco: A Panoramic Sanctuary

A brief summary to Church of San Michele in Bosco

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi

Unlock the Best of Church of San Michele in Bosco

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Church of San Michele in Bosco

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

San Michele In Bosco

Valverde Cistern

Via Bagni Di Mario, 10

P.za Cavour

Chiesa San Giovanni in Monte

Piazza De' Celestini

Basilica di San Petronio

Palazzo dei Notai

Oratorio dei Battuti

Piazza Maggiore

Via Pescherie Vecchie

Palazzo d'Accursio

Bologna Welcome - Official Tourist Office (IAT)

Palazzo della Mercanzia

Porta Saragozza

Unmissable attractions to see

Parco di San Michele in Bosco

Complesso monumentale di San Michele in Bosco (BO)

Cisterna del Remondato via Codivilla

Bagni di Mario (Conserva di Valverde)

Palazzo Ruini

La Sorbetteria Castiglione

Giardini Margherita

Basilica of San Domenico

Ex Chiesa di San Pietro Martire

Arca di Egidio Foscherari

Palazzo Bevilacqua Ariosti

Piazza Cavour

Majani Cioccolato Boutique

Portici di Bologna

Portici di Piazza Cavour e Via Farini

Essential places to dine

Antica Osteria Le Mura

Al Sangiovese Restaurant

L'è Bon

Sette Tavoli

Antica Osteria Romagnola

Da Cesari

Parlor

Drogheria della Rosa

Osteria dei Grifoni

Taverna del Postiglione

All'Osteria Bottega

051 Osteria

Botanica Lab Cucina

Sfoglia Rina

Zerocinquantino

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Upper Vintage

Vintage Boutique by Silvia Fini www.finisilvia.com

SPLIT shop

Boutique The Bridge Bologna

Galleria Cavour

Louis Vuitton Bologna

Bottega Veneta Bologna

HERMÈS Bologna

MANGANO

Prada Bologna

Montblanc Boutique Bologna

Cervellati

Icons Luxury & Vintage

Pinko Boutique Bologna

Galleria Cavour 1959

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Lestofante

NU Lounge Bar

Ruggine