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Palazzo Bocchi: A Renaissance Gem in Bologna

Explore Palazzo Bocchi, a Renaissance palace in Bologna with unique Hebrew inscriptions and stunning architecture.

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Palazzo Bocchi, located on Via Goito in Bologna, is a stunning Renaissance palace built in the mid-16th century. Commissioned by the humanist scholar Achille Bocchi, it served as the home of his Hermatena Academy and features unique architectural details, including inscriptions in both Latin and Hebrew.

A brief summary to Palazzo Bocchi

  • Via Goito, 16, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, 40126, IT

Local tips

  • Take time to examine the inscriptions on the facade, noting the rare Hebrew text and its significance.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the historic center of Bologna to see other Renaissance buildings.
  • Check for any temporary exhibitions or guided tours that may enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Palazzo Bocchi is located in the heart of Bologna, easily accessible by foot from major landmarks. From Piazza Maggiore, walk east along Via Rizzoli, then turn left onto Via dell'Indipendenza. Continue straight, then turn left onto Via Goito. The Palazzo will be on your left. This is a straightforward walk through the city center.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Palazzo Bocchi via public transport, take bus lines 25 or 11 towards the city center. Get off at the 'Piazza Maggiore' stop. From there, walk southwest on Via dell'Indipendenza, then turn left onto Via Goito. Palazzo Bocchi will be on your left at number 16. A single ride ticket costs €2.30.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bologna. A short taxi ride from the Bologna Centrale train station to Palazzo Bocchi will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. Note that it's not possible to access Piazza Maggiore by taxi on weekends and holidays.

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Discover more about Palazzo Bocchi

Palazzo Bocchi, situated at Via Goito 16, stands as a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture in Bologna. Constructed between 1545 and 1565, the palazzo was commissioned by Achille Bocchi, a prominent Bolognese humanist, scholar, and founder of the Hermatena Academy. The building was designed by Vignola and Sebastiano Serlio. The palazzo is distinguished by its rusticated base, a design element featuring rows of tooled, raised stones. This architectural detail extends to the front door, ground floor windows, and corners of the building. Above the base, two large inscriptions—one in Latin and one in Hebrew—are displayed. The Hebrew inscription, a verse from Psalm 120, is a unique feature in Italian and European monumental buildings. The Latin inscription is from Horace. Inside, the palace features 16th-century frescoes by Prospero Fontana. Palazzo Bocchi not only served as Bocchi's residence but also as the headquarters for his Hermatena Academy, a center for humanist studies. The academy's name combines Hermes, the god of eloquence, and Athena, the goddess of wisdom, arts, and science, reflecting Bocchi's wide-ranging intellectual pursuits. The palace is near other attractions such as the Bologna Towers and Piazza Maggiore.

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