Bologna

Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region. Founded by the Etruscans, the city has been an urban center for centuries, first under the Etruscans, then under the Celts, then under the Romans, and again in the Middle Ages, when it was among the largest European cities by population. It is home to the oldest university in Europe established in 1088.

Bologna is renowned for its culinary tradition. It is the home of the famous Bolognese sauce, called ragù.

As in all of Emilia-Romagna, the production of cured pork meats such as prosciutto and salumi is an important part of the local food industry. Mortadella counts to the Bolognese specialities.

Bologna is famous for its elegant and extensive porticoes. In total, there are some 38 kilometers of porticoes in the city's historical center.

Just before Christmas, the center of Bologna becomes very crowded.