The Porticoes of Bologna
Bologna, Italy
16.07.2024
The Arkandengänge Bolognas are a unique and fascinating underground network of tunnels and passageways located in the city of Bologna, Italy. These arcaded walkways are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their historical and cultural significance.
Bologna, also known as the "Red City" due to its distinctive red brick buildings, has a long and rich history dating back to the Etruscans in the 6th century BC. The city flourished during the Roman Empire and became an important center for trade and learning during the Middle Ages. It is also known for its prestigious university, which was founded in 1088 and is the oldest in Europe.
The Arkandengänge were built in the 17th century as a way to connect the city's main buildings and provide shelter for pedestrians during bad weather. The arcades were also used as storage space for merchants and workshops for artisans. Over time, they became an integral part of the city's urban fabric and played a key role in shaping Bologna's unique character.
The Arkandengänge consist of over 40 kilometers of passageways, with some sections reaching up to 3 meters in width and 6 meters in height. The arched ceilings are made of brick and stone, and the walls are adorned with beautiful frescoes and sculptures. Visitors can explore these hidden gems and discover the hidden treasures of Bologna's past.
One of the most famous sections of the Arkandengänge is the Cannetiello, a narrow and winding passage that connects the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana to the Piazza Santo Stefano. This section is known for its eccentric architecture and unique atmosphere, making it a popular spot for photography and romantic walks.
Today, the Arkandengänge are not only a popular tourist attraction, but also a beloved part of daily life for the residents of Bologna. The arcades are lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, making them the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a cup of espresso.
Visitors to Bologna can also explore other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city, such as the Piazza Maggiore and the Towers of Bologna. These sites offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage, and are not to be missed.
Experience the magic of Bologna's Arkandengänge and discover the hidden treasures of this beautiful city.
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The serial property comprises twelve component parts consisting of ensembles of porticoes and their surrounding built areas, located within the Municipality of Bologna from the 12th century to the present. These portico ensembles are considered to be the most representative among city’s porticoes, which cover a total stretch of 62 km. Some of the porticoes are built of wood, others of stone or brick, as well as reinforced concrete, covering roads, squares, paths and walkways, either on one or both sides of a street. The property includes porticoed buildings that do not form a structural continuum with other buildings and therefore are not part of a comprehensive covered walkway or passage. The porticoes are appreciated as sheltered walkways and prime locations for merchant activities. In the 20th century, the use of concrete allowed the replacement of the traditional vaulted arcades with new building possibilities and a new architectural language for the porticoes emerged, as exemplified in the Barca district. Together, the selected porticoes reflect different typologies, urban and social functions and chronological phases. Defined as private property for public use, the porticoes have become an expression and element of Bologna’s urban identity.
The porticoes of Bologna are an important cultural and architectural heritage of Bologna, Italy and represent a symbol of the city together with the numerous towers. No other city in the world has as many porticoes as Bologna: all together, they cover more than 38 kilometres (24 mi) only in the historic centre, but can reach up to 53 kilometres (33 mi) if those outside the medieval city walls are also considered.
On account of their cultural and artistic significance, in 2021 the porticoes of Bologna have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The porticoes of Bologna are similar to the Qi-lou (骑楼) widely found in the cities of southern China and the Gan-gi (雁木) found in the Japanese cities along the Japan Sea.
