In the shade of the porticoes - 10th section: Strada Maggiore

The tour of the 12 sections of the UNESCO Porticoes of Bologna continues along the Strada Maggiore which distinguishes itself for its history and the elegance of its arches.

Take a stroll along the portico of Strada Maggiore, UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bologna, and cross one of the most majestic and ancient streets of the city

Strada Maggiore, the historic artery of Bologna, connects the centre to the outskirts and has always played a crucial role in commerce and urban activities. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, the portico welcomed merchants entering the city, offering them shelter during trading transactions. Thanks to its strategic position, Strada Maggiore has consolidated its importance over time as a thriving hub of Bologna's culture and social life.

From an architectural point of view, the portico of Strada Maggiore stands out for its extraordinary height and for the elegance of its columns, which in some sections are still made of wood, giving the entire structure a touch of authenticity. Its porticoes include the Portico of Casa Isolani – probably the oldest medieval portico in Europe – and the Portico dei Servi with its church – the widest in the city. Strolling along Strada Maggiore is like virtually walking through a monumental open-air gallery, a testimony to the eras it has welcomed.

Today, the Portico of Strada Maggiore has become an ideal venue, vibrant and lively, dotted with a variety of shops, bars and restaurants that attract both the locals and tourists. Worthy of note, during the Christmas period, is the historic Santa Lucia Fair held under the Portico dei Servi. It's an unmissable event for Christmastime visitors to Bologna.

Hidden just below the feet of the passers-by, a series of archaeological discoveries revealed the existence of an ancient Roman necropolis, dating back to the time of the Via Aemilia that crossed ancient Roman Bononia and extended towards the current historic centre. The modern city therefore continues to tread on ancient traces of a buried Roman past, adding a dimension of charm and mystery to the portico. If you want to discover more mysteries related to this portico, explore the Seven Secrets of Bologna: one of them is hidden right here!

"In the shade of the porticoes" is the column that explores the twelve Porticoes of Bologna, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. In addition to offering insights into their history and architecture, the column also tells of the daily life of those who work, travel and live under those porticoes every day.