In the shade of the porticoes - 11th section: Treno della Barca

Designed in a modern style, the porticoes of the Treno della Barca are a lively and dynamic area in the western part of Bologna.

The eleventh section of the UNESCO Porticoes that we visit in Bologna are the Porticoes of the Treno della Barca

The Porticoes of the Treno della Barca are part of a residential building project that unfolded in the 60s and 70s, with the aim of creating a new functional and modern area on the outskirts of the city. The name derives from the architectural structure that resembles the shape of a train, with arches that wind along Via della Barca.

The porticoes of the Treno della Barca are in fact part of a very long social housing building; they are a modern reinterpretation of the traditional porticoes of Bologna. They distinguish themselves for their wide, regular arches, supported by reinforced concrete columns, with a design that reflects the urban trends of the period. Despite their contemporaneity compared to the historic porticoes of the city centre, they retain the same weather protection function, offering a sheltered walkway for the locals, merchants and visitors to the neighbourhood.

Initially designed to meet the growing post-war housing demand, the porticoes were part of a context that combined social housing and a strong sense of community. Today it has become a key gathering and socialising place, where the pace of everyday Bologna life intertwines with that of a more residential and family dimension. The porticoes of the Treno della Barca are often the venue for Locally organised events and markets, which help to keep the area’s characteristic community spirit alive.

"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.