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Piazza dell'Otto Agosto: Bologna's Historical Heart

Experience Bologna's vibrant heart at Piazza dell'Otto Agosto, a historic square with a bustling market and rich cultural significance.

Piazza dell'Otto Agosto, the largest square in Bologna's historic center, commemorates the Bolognese victory against Austrian forces on August 8, 1848. Today, it hosts the vibrant Piazzola Market every Friday and Saturday, with hundreds of stalls offering a variety of goods.

A brief summary to Piazza dell'Otto Agosto

  • Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, 40126, IT

Local tips

  • Visit on Friday or Saturday to experience the lively Piazzola Market.
  • Explore the underground archaeological site discovered during the construction of the parking garage.
  • Take a stroll through the adjacent Montagnola Park for panoramic views of the city.
  • Check out the Finestrella on the Canale delle Moline, a picturesque glimpse of Bologna's hidden canals, located a short walk southeast of the square.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Piazza dell'Otto Agosto is located within Bologna's historic center and is easily accessible by foot from many central landmarks. From Piazza Maggiore, walk north along Via dell'Indipendenza for approximately 10 minutes. The square will be on your left, adjacent to Parco della Montagnola.

  • Public Transport

    The closest bus stop to Piazza dell'Otto Agosto is Sferisterio. Several bus lines stop here, including lines 14, 19, 20, 25, 27, 28, 36, 37, 62, 89, 93, 94, 99, and 243. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50 and is valid for 75 minutes. You can purchase tickets at tabacchi shops, bars, newspaper kiosks, and vending machines.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bologna. You can find them at taxi ranks in Piazza Maggiore or near the Bologna Centrale train station. You can also book a taxi by calling +39 051 372727 (COTABO) or +39 051 4590 (CAT). A short taxi ride from the train station or city center to Piazza dell'Otto Agosto will typically cost between €5 and €10.

  • Parking

    If driving, the Parcheggio Piazza VIII Agosto is a large underground parking garage located directly beneath the square. It offers 980 spaces and is open 24/7. Hourly rates start at €2.70, with a daily maximum of €20.70. Keep in mind that traffic in the city center can be congested, especially during market days.

Discover more about Piazza dell'Otto Agosto

Piazza dell'Otto Agosto, also written as Piazza VIII Agosto, is more than just a large square; it's a vibrant focal point in the heart of Bologna, steeped in history and bustling with activity. Twice the size of Piazza Maggiore, this expansive space has been a gathering place for centuries. Originally known as Piazza del Mercato (Market Square), the area was acquired by the municipality in 1219 and officially designated for livestock markets in 1251. In 1390, the Bolognese Republic authorized a fair to be held there. Over time, the square transformed, witnessing various events and modifications, including a stint as a military training ground under Napoleonic rule. The square's current name commemorates August 8, 1848, the day the citizens of Bologna bravely expelled the Austrian army after a riot. This victory is a significant point of pride for the city, which was awarded a gold medal for its role in the Risorgimento Nazionale. A monument to the common people, created in 1903 by Pasquale Rizzoli, stands on the steps of the Montagnola Park overlooking the square as a reminder of this event. Today, Piazza dell'Otto Agosto is best known for the Piazzola Market, a historic market that takes place every Friday and Saturday. With over 400 stalls, the market offers a wide array of goods, from clothing and accessories to household items and local products. The square also features an underground parking garage with nearly 1,000 spaces.

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