Collezioni Comunali d'Arte: A Journey Through Bolognese Art History

Housed within the former winter apartment of the Cardinal Legates in Palazzo d'Accursio, the Collezioni Comunali d'Arte provides a glimpse into the opulent lives of Bologna's past rulers and the artistic treasures they amassed. The collection began in 1936, stemming from donations of paintings, furniture and decor acquired by the city throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. These pieces were added to pre-existing works that once belonged to the city's magistrates. The museum's collection includes works from the 13th to the 20th centuries. See the likes of Vitale da Bologna, Jacopo di Paolo, and Francesco Francia. The Bolognese and Emilian Cinquecento are represented by Aspertini, Carracci and Passerotti. A substantial collection of 17th-century paintings includes works by Emilian painters and artists from other schools, such as Artemisia Gentileschi. Don't miss the Urban Hall, dating back to 1630, one of the most important examples of Baroque in Bologna. The heraldic decorations covering its walls feature 188 coats of arms, giving it the name Sala degli Stemmi (Coat of Arms Hall). The Galleria Vidoniana houses some of the most significant works in the collection, including eighteen paintings executed between 1713 and 1723 by Donato Creti. The museum also displays furniture, miniatures, and examples of applied arts, including lace and embroidery.