Teatro Arena del Sole: A Historic Stage in Bologna
Experience Bologna's vibrant cultural scene at Teatro Arena del Sole, a historic theater offering diverse performances in a beautifully renovated space.
The Teatro Arena del Sole, located on Via dell'Indipendenza in Bologna, boasts a rich history that began in 1810. During the French occupation, Pietro Bonini initiated the construction of an open-air arena on the site of a former convent. Named 'Arena del Sole' (Arena of the Sun), it hosted daytime performances, becoming a popular venue for plays, dramas, carnival balls, and even circus performances. The theater's architecture reflects different eras. Carlo Asparri designed the original terraced, semicircular structure in Neoclassical style. In 1888, Gaetano Rubbi created the façade, which remains the only 19th-century part of the building still in its original form. It features a high arcade with Corinthian capitals and statues of Apollo, Poetry, and Tragedy. A unique feature added in 1916 was a removable roof, allowing for winter performances and film screenings. Over time, cinema gained popularity, and in 1949, the Arena del Sole became solely a movie theater. In 1984, the Municipality of Bologna acquired the building and began a radical restructuring to restore it as a theater. The grand re-inauguration took place in 1995, revealing two halls: the larger Sala Leo de Berardinis (952 seats) and the smaller Sala Thierry Salmon (220-300 seats). The renovation also incorporated the cloister of the old convent, creating an open-air space for summer events. Today, the Teatro Arena del Sole hosts a wide range of performances and events, and is committed to accessibility, offering facilities and services for people with disabilities.
Local tips
- Check the theater's schedule online for a diverse program of plays, dance, and musical performances.
- Book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows, to secure your seat.
- Arrive early to explore the theater's architecture and enjoy the atmosphere before the performance.
- Consider attending a performance in the summer to experience a show in the open-air cloister.
A brief summary to Teatro Arena del Sole
- Via dell'Indipendenza, 44, Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, 40121, IT
- +390512910910
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
From Piazza Maggiore, walk straight along Via dell'Indipendenza for about 10 minutes (approximately 700 meters). The Teatro Arena del Sole will be on your left. From the Due Torri, follow Via Rizzoli for 400 meters, then turn right and continue for another 400 meters. The theater will be on your left.
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Public Transport
The Teatro Arena del Sole is easily accessible by bus. Several bus lines stop near the theater, including lines A, C, 11, 20, and 27 at the VIII Agosto stop, which is 200 meters from the theater. Bus T2 stops directly at the ARENA DEL SOLE stop (#408). A single bus ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 75 minutes after validation.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Bologna. A taxi ride from the Bologna Centrale train station to the Teatro Arena del Sole typically costs between €8 and €12 and takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The initial fare is €3.40 during the day, with an additional €1.25 per kilometer.
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Parking
Several parking options are available near the Teatro Arena del Sole. The Piazza VIII Agosto Parking is a 24/7 secure parking facility with video surveillance. Piazzale Autostazione Parking is another option, about a 10-minute walk from the theater. Expect to pay around €2.70 for up to 1 hour and €5.40 for up to 2 hours. Keep in mind that the city center is a limited traffic zone (ZTL), so check regulations and consider purchasing a ZTL pass if necessary.
