The seven secrets of Bologna: What are the hidden historical secrets of Bologna?
Bologna, a city in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, known for its medieval appearance with red-hued buildings and a large population of university students. Established in 1088, it holds the distinction of hosting Europe’s oldest university. However, limiting Bologna to just these aspects would be unfair. Bologna is also an incredible city frequented by food enthusiasts and travelers of all ages.
In our detailed article about Bologna, we’ve already discussed how you can explore the city center entirely on foot. Yet, discovering the famous seven secrets of Bologna is essential to fully experiencing this city.
In this article, we will talk about Bologna‘s famous seven secrets.
1. The Finger of Neptune
Piazza del Nettuno
One of Bologna’s seven secrets is Neptune’s Finger.
The Neptune statue is one of the most famous historical landmarks in Bologna. As you ascend to Piazza Maggiore (the main square), it greets you in all its grandeur. However, this statue has a peculiar feature that leaves viewers in awe. Giambologna, the sculptor, played a clever joke that still attracts countless tourists today.
While Neptune’s genitalia appear normal when viewed from the front, if you look from the statue’s right rear side, you’ll see that the genitalia are depicted in an erect state. 🙂
2. The Whispering Walls
Voltone del Podesta, in Palazzo del Podesta
The Whispering Walls appear as the second of Bologna‘s seven secrets.
Piazza Maggiore is the first spot tourists visit in Bologna. Inside the Palazzo della Podesta, directly opposite the Duomo in this square, there’s an arched structure with frescoes on the ceiling known as the Whispering Walls.
If you whisper towards one of these arches, your friend positioned directly opposite you in the same spot will hear what you say as if you were talking right next to them.
Legend has it that lovers used this spot in the Middle Ages to secretly converse. Now, you can add a romantic touch to your Bologna trip with this unique experience.
3. The Little Venice
Via Piella, around No: 16
Fourth on our list of Bologna’s seven secrets reveals a glimpse of Venice.
As you stroll along Via Piella, you’ll encounter a bridge where one side meets a wall and the other side extends over a canal. If you open the small wooden window on the wall, you’ll be greeted with an unexpected view resembling Venice.
In fact, Bologna has many water canals dating back to the 12th century, and some of these canals can still be seen in certain parts of the city.
It’s a perfect way to get a taste of Venice without traveling hours to reach the nearby city from Bologna.
4. Medieval Arrows
Strada Maggiore, 26 (The wooden ceiling of the portico at the entrance of Corte Isolani)
Our fifth secret dates back to ancient times and has made its way onto Bologna’s list of seven secrets.
According to legend, three assassins were hired to kill a nobleman in Bologna. As they approached the nobleman’s house, they were distracted by the sight of a naked young woman in the window, causing them to scatter their arrows around.
These arrows have become another one of Bologna’s secrets. Unfortunately, only two of these arrows have been found, while the third arrow remains undiscovered to this day.
5. Panum Resis
Via Zamboni, 33
Perhaps the most “secret” among all the secrets is Panum Resis. Engraved on one of the historical desks inside Palazzo Poggi’s university is “Panum Resis.” However, no one has yet found it.
“Panum Resis” can be translated into English as “Knowledge is at the center of all decisions.”
6. The Broken Vase
If you climb to the top of the Asinelli Tower (Due Torri), you’ll supposedly see a broken vase symbolizing the skill of the people of Bologna in solving problems. However, whether anyone has actually seen this vase so far is unknown to us.
We’ve shared another feature of the Twin Towers in our Bologna Travel Guide article.
7. Canabis Protectio
Via del Indipendenza, at the corner of Via Rizzoli, under Torre Scappi
The last of Bologna’s seven secrets requires a visit to the Via dell’Indipendenza area. Here, beneath Torre Scappi, you’ll find the inscription “panis vita, canabis protectio, vinum laetitia.” This can be translated as “bread is life, hemp protects, wine is joy.”
This inscription is interpreted in two ways: it either symbolizes Bologna’s wealth during a time when its economy revolved around hemp (used in textile production), or it signifies that hemp protects from bitterness.
additional Info
In front of the Duomo, you’ll always see police or soldiers, and the reason for this is a painting inside.
Inside the Duomo, the only area accessible for a fee contains a fresco depicting Prophet Muhammad in Hell. Photography inside is prohibited, so I’m sharing a photo from the internet.
Alongside its historical significance, architectural beauty, and renowned university, Bologna also reveals its secrets in this manner.
We hope this information enriches and enhances your journey to Bologna.
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