If you are looking for an accommodation in the centre of Bologna the Art Hotel Commercianti is the ideal solution: a boutique hotel located in the heart of the medieval centre, in the historical building that housed the Bologna Municipality of the XII century.

The Art Hotel Commercianti has recently gone through a refurbishing process which has kept all the distinctive features of the original building: its vaulted ceilings, its wooden beams, the elegant balconies looking out over the Gothic stained glass-windows of the impressive Basilica di San Petronio.

This 4-star hotel located in a quiet pedestrian area, provides a private parking in the center of Bologna next to the Basilica of San Petronio in Piazza Maggiore. The parking is easily accessible and reserved to the hotel clients.

The hotel boasts an insuperable location lying within walking distance to the main tourist attractions of the city: Archiginnasio, Palazzo del Podestà, Fontana del Nettuno, the Two Towers and also to the most renowned shopping streets of Bologna and the best restaurants.

Our charme hotel, adjoining Piazza Maggiore, offers a personalised attention, hospitality and high quality service which have gained it the prestigious certificate “Stanze Italiane”. Make a reservation on the official website of the Art Hotel Commercianti and enjoy a unique and luxury experience at the heart of our wonderful city.

ROOMS & SUITES
The rooms and suites of the Art Hotel Commercianti are elegant and luxury accommodations which keep the distinctive elements of the original medieval building of the XII century, in an elegant ambiance enhanced by the timbered wooden structures and the stunning views to the Gothic stained glass-windows of the Basilica di San Petronio. Select your luxury room in the centre of Bologna and make a reservation on the official website of the Art Hotel Commercianti.

The Suites of the Art Commercianti Hotel are the most exclusive accommodation of our hotel where the harmony of shapes and spaces, a sophisticated elegance and functional design objects offer a unique hospitality: everything is refinement and comfort. In the spacious and elegant bathrooms dark marble and elegant finishing have been used.

TOWER SUITE
enclosed in the oldest building, the medieval tower is now truncated in its final part, it is composed of two separate rooms: a living room and a bedroom. Furnished with a comfortable sofa, a desk, a walk-in closet, a flat screen TV, and a kettle with a wide selection of teas and coffees. This suite boasts a unique view on the Gothic windows of the Basilica of San Petronio and the Romanesque bell tower.

Inside the suite you can admire beautiful frescos of the XVIII century created using an ancient “nail engraving” technique as the shield, on which you can still read the sentence “Armi e di ballare” (“Weapons and dance”), part of a motto which celebrated the glories of rich families now long forgotten.

GLOSSATORS SUITE
Also this suite consists of two separate rooms of which one living room, richly painted and furnished. The name of the room is a tribute to its history because in addition to be the seat of the Municipality of Bologna, the building was also the seat of the prestigious University when the Roman law professors (glossators) used to teach lessons in their own homes.

Furnished with a comfortable sofa, a desk, a flat screen TV, and a kettle with a wide selection of teas and coffees. This suite can accommodate up to four people.

JUNIOR SUITE NEPTUNE
Romantic bedroom with sitting area and a pretty iron bed canopy: it takes its name after the god of the sea whose statue dominates the main square of Bologna. A blue wall with shell lamps incorporates the theme of the sea creating enchanting atmosphere.

JUNIOR SUITE PETRONIO
Elegant room with walls manually decorated. It takes its name from the Basilica of San Petronio because from the windows of the room seems almost to be able to touch the beautiful Gothic windows of the church.

DELUXE DOUBLE ROOM WITH TERRACE
Double Deluxe Rooms with Terrace of the Art Commercianti Hotel are elegant, comfortable and well furnished with a comfortable double bed or two single beds, a desk, a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, a kettle and a wide selection of teas and coffees.

These rooms have a terrace with table and chairs and a lovely view: you can admire from your private terrace the splendid Gothic windows of the Basilica of San Petronio, the Church overlooking Piazza Maggiore, and you can also listen to the organ concerts that periodically are held into the Church.

Each room is special and different from the others, but all are furnished with attention to details, style and refinement. These elegant accommodations are furnished with all the comforts in order to ensure you a perfect stay.

APARTMENTS 
The Art Studio Apartments of the Commercianti Hotel offer you the opportunity to stay in an elegant building in Via D’Azeglio, where we find the most exclusive shopping centres of the city, and still enjoy all the services and the personalised attention of the Commercianti Art Hotel, located just a few metres away from the apartments.

These apartments feature a refined, elegant and modern decoration and are equipped with all the necessary commodities for a long-term business stay at the heart of Bologna: spacious work table and comfortable chairs, sofa, views to the city centre and fully equipped kitchen.

LUXURY APARTMENTS BATTIBECCO
The Luxury Apartments Battibecco are two magnificent luxury apartments with a modern design that offer the opportunity to stay a few steps from Piazza Maggiore and the main monuments of the city and at the same time to enjoy freedom and comfort of an annex together with all the four-star services of the Hotel Commercianti, located just 200 meters away.

The apartments can accommodate up to four people and are located on the third floor with lift in Via Battibecco, a small, very quiet pedestrian street near the hotel and within walking distance.

These elegant solutions are characterized by larger spaces than the other rooms and by a more modern design. In both apartments have been chosen the typical colors of Bologna’s homes, blue and green, which are enhanced by the white stuccoes and the large and bright windows.

The choice of furniture plays on the contrast between rigorous architecture and alluring and playful elements where the ancient and the modern are mixed: tables and bedside tables in glass and steel find a perfect balance with collections of old books and antiques.

The luxuriously furnished bathrooms are equipped with a Turkish bath and chromotherapy. The kitchens have induction hobs and the latest generation oven.

SERVICES
The services of the Art Hotel Commercianti are the hallmark of this business and leisure hotel on Piazza Maggiore. The services of our charme hotel in the centre of Bologna guarantee you the success of your business events and the calmness and relax you need during your holidays: exclusive boardrooms, left-luggage office, private parking, free bike rental.

BREAKFAST
Every morning you can find a wide variety of tasty bakery products and fresh handcrafted pastries: you can enjoy cakes, croissants and delicious pastries prepared daily, as well as puddings, cream, chocolate, hazelnut, pistachio filled croissants and chocolate, pineapple, walnut and apple cakes.

There will be an assortment of local products associated with the cooking traditions of our city, such as raviole and rice cakes. Even savoury lovers will be satisfied, thanks to the abundant selection of cheese, toast, several types of bread, breadsticks, quiches, omelettes, crackers and our platters of cold cuts, with the unmissable traditional Bolognese mortadella.

For us, the seasonality of the products is of the utmost importance, so you will always find new, freshly prepared, seasonal dishes. Fresh seasonal fruit, both dried and canned, are always present on our banquet tables, as well as fruit salads and assorted yoghurts (flavours: fruit, natural).

Taste our different types of jam and honey, and make your breakfast richer with our wide choice of cereals! Relax and enjoy our rich variety of fine teas and fresh fruit and vegetable juices; you will find orange, pineapple, ACE and tomato juice.

Let yourself be pampered by our staff, who will serve you excellent drinks at the table, from cappuccino to the typical Italian espresso, without forgetting freshly squeezed orange or grapefruit and hot dishes: omelettes, scrambled, fried, boiled or soft-boiled eggs, in accordance with your personal tastes.

If you want to have a more flavourful breakfast, you can add to your plate a sprinkling of spices, such as curry, oregano, paprika, mustard and ginger powder. Discover also our corner dedicated to biological and gluten-free products, where you will find jams, rice wafers, biological apple juices, biscuits, muesli, all gluten free.

If you prefer the intimate and discreet atmosphere of your room, you can ask for room service and enjoy your breakfast in the comfort of your room.

MEETING ROOMS
The Art Hotel Commercianti is one of the best business hotels in the centre of Bologna, as it features an elegant boardroom with a classic decoration and an exclusive ambiance that will guarantee the success of all your events and business meetings.

Organise your congresses, press conferences, presentations of products or intimate celebrations in a salon with the original features of the old medieval building: vaulted ceiling, ancient Roman remains, wooden beams.

SALA DEL POZZO
The Sala del Pozzo of the Commercianti Hotel is a 77-square-metre boardroom divided into three different areas. The first one is a welcoming space ideal for coffee breaks, welcoming cocktails, light lunches and buffet dinners.

The second and third areas are divided by columns and have a maximum capacity for 40 people. The salon has all the necessary equipment to guarantee the success of your professional events: large screen, free Wi-Fi access, projector, radio microphone, audio system and computer.

HISTORY HOTEL IN BOLOGNA
In 2015 Art Hotel Commercianti entry to the exclusive 53 Attività Storiche di Bologna (Historic Bologna Businesses) club. Research by the Chamber of Commerce has certified that hospitality has been the building’s business for over one hundred years.

The Orsi family was not involved in this early phase of the business but the three generations which have succeeded one another in the art of hospitality have made it what it is today. Come and get to know us. Experience a piece of history in our wonderful city!

Hotel Commercianti is on Via De’ Pignattari, a quiet street flanking the Basilica di San Petronio, in the heart of the city and a fully pedestrian only area. It’s difficult to imagine now but our narrow street was once one of the city’s most important.

Built on the route of the Roman decumanus (some of which is still visible) it was a bustling and wealthy street whose primary activities included salt trading, customs and lastly terracotta making – pignattari. The building became a hotel only at the turn of the twentieth century but its origins are as an early 11th century tower house when it was made town hall.

While S. Petronio was being built, Via de’ Pignattari’s importance diminished and, as a result of the non completion of work on the church, all that remains of the former quarter is now our building.

Many traces of the great many activities, which have succeeded one another over the centuries in this historic corner of Bologna, have been uncovered over the course of the hotel’s frequent renovation work.

Pot fragments tell of the modest lifestyle of Etruscan Felsina, the geometric friezes and a high relief of a mythological animal are echoes of the riches of Roman Bononia, the nails and iron together with terracotta statuettes and pot fragments are traces of the medieval craftsmanship of a farrier and a terracotta artisan.

The building’s structure also tells much of its past. The remains of the historic well which supplied its inhabitants with water is in the breakfast room, frescoes in the Torre suite made with the original ‘segno del chiodo’ technique have survived to testify to the luxuries of wealthy but long forgotten families. Wooden structures blackened by a historic fire tell of the dangers of fire, ever present in the Middle Ages.

All this is confirmed by two plaques situated to one side of the hotel’s entrance. Our building has, in fact, been declared a ‘historic building’, former ‘town hall’ (1116-1202 AD) and was later seat of the Brentatori (1250 AD) but other illustrious people stayed in the building including Roman law scholars studying at Bologna University who had their studies here and to whom we have dedicated one of our suites, the Glossatori room.

The Brentatore merits separate mention as a historic Bologna figure who performed many and important roles in the medieval city: wine bearer and valuer, papal duty collector, fireman. A brenta was a container used for transporting wine but brentatori were not mere wine carriers.

They were authorised by the town council to taste wines to assess their value and collect the relevant duties on the basis of quality. To take part in this group of ‘good and healthy drinking professionals’ brentatori had to pass a difficult technical and practical exam and be physically strong as a brenta filled with wine and grapes weighed more than 50 kg.

In their travels between country and city it was not only wine and grapes that they brought with them but also news and this gave them an important social function. Brentatori were also firemen, transporting the water needed to put out the many fires which broke out in homes which were generally, at the time, made of wood.

THE HISTORY OF BOLOGNA’S ALMA MATER
Did you know that the history of our hotel is partially connected to the one of the University of Bologna? The Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, is the oldest western university.

Founded in 1088 as a free association between students, the university did not have a fixed seat until the 16 th century, and for this reason, the professors used to have classes in their own homes, or they would lease a few rooms in the city hall.

Bologna’s School of the Glossators was the school of the jurists and scholars which reconstructed the Corpus Iuris Civilis of emperor Justinian I; the term ‘Glossator’ comes from the term ‘Glossa’, the footnote that they used to comment on the text.

An important piece of history about our building was that it hosted two of the most famous glossators: Alberico di Porta Ravennate, who turned it into the headquarters of the Art Society, and Odofredo, who used it as his own private residence; both held their lectures and received payment directly from their students. All of this took place where room 230 is located, which we named “The Glossators’ Suite” in their honor.

Rooms: 33

Price: from 151 EUR per night

Source: www.art-hotel-commercianti.com

The historic Hotel Corona D’Oro, located in the heart of Bologna, is a true and genuine preferential window to the “two towers”, one of the symbols of the city, which is only a few steps away.

There are 40 rooms, all delicately decorated in a classic style and characterized by an elegant and enchanting atmosphere, the result of a recent restoration. One of the hotel’s characteristics is represented by the sophistication of its ambience and its incomparable calmness that one can experience in every room.

Hotel Corona D’Oro perfectly preserves the original parts of the antique building that it houses, among which are the medieval portico on the outside and the precious panelled ceilings covered in renaissance frescos.

The magnificent Liberty Hall, illuminated by natural lights thanks to its grand glass cupola that opens during the summer months and creates an appealing and unique atmosphere.

The central location is perfect for visiting the city’s all main attractions on foot: splendid piazzas, museums, historical buildings, renowned restaurants, shopping promenades. Hotel Corona D’Oro, though located in a limited traffic zone, is reachable by cars and has its own spacious and convenient private garage.

THE HISTORY
The building went up in the XIII century and a proud holder of an elegant medieval portico on the outside. Belonged to the powerful family of Azzoguidi at the time, reminded by a large celebratory sign, the antique building through the course of centuries has had various restorations: from XV century, the frescoed panelled ceilings remain, greatly preserved; and the refine work of oil on canvas, Madonna con Bambino, that embellishes the room where it is located.

The elegant hall, with plasters in style of Liberty, went up at the beginning of the XX century. What makes this hall special is its construction of a bright and strategic glass cupola that opens during the summer and transforms the space into an open internal courtyard, unique and appealing.

“When I was built, as you have heard, it was late medieval period…” Bologna in that moment was a jungle of towers under which, us, resident houses grew up protected, proud of our wood porticos, of our windows often decorated in terracotta tiles, and the curves that connect us.

Life, certainly, was not easy for everybody: students from every part poured into Alma Mater Studiorum and rendered lively, sure, but also agitated the community a bit, which was already busy with commerce and a series of small productive activities; the political sequences and fractions were more than ever ignited and relocate us, often, further to the families of this or that part; there were also their belongings, their houses.

This where I was raised was still in the heart of the city: from above the towers were watching me, the memories and names belonged to the history, not only architectural, but of Bologna: the Guiozagni tower and the Uguzzoni tower were erected in the 200s; the Prendiparte, as everybody called it, “Coronata” (crown) for the shape of its peak; the Altabella (tall and beautiful), well deserved definition, with 60 meters of height: its true name, however, was Azzoguidi.

The history of my life has quiet a lot of importance because we – if one can say – were from the same family. Since the area was “going” well, a certain Agostino Torati came up with an idea of opening his own locanda with an osteria. Where? In the property of the Broglia, number 1616 on Via Cavaliera: preparing, in retrospective, a new destiny for me.

Indeed, in the license application that Torati requested from the Ufficio d’Igiene Comunale on the 30th of April, 1865, indicating that the street, according to the layout, was very central and “a grand concourse of people”; however, keeping in mind that about 80 meters away, Il Locanda di Marino was already open and there were no schools or boarding schools near by.

The license, granted to Agostino Torati, on the 20th of May by city commission. Osteria with locanda (second category business) began its business activities in the building besides me. An activity that I followed, in all senses, closely then concluded as union between me and the “Corona d’Oro” (this was a new name for business), between my ancient nobility and its young entrepreneur.

It was her, confusedly thought to have become an “entrepreneur” and no longer a simple hostess, organized the memorable party for the New Year of the century: 1900! The rooms of the Corona d’Ora that night was filled with men in tuxedo, and beautiful women in boa, aigrettes and sequin dresses, as the fashion trend of the XX century.

Everyone toasted to the New Year with excellent sparkling wines that Carolina served among the velvet, mirrors, and golden setting of her elegant belle époque place.

The arrival of the XX century also brought innovations to the spaces of the hotel: the team of workers generated improvements,and above all, the arrival of something completely new, the bathrooms. Carolina installed two per floor.

Then she restored the glass windows, and putting herself to advertise her business: in 1902 showing up in front with embossed letters, written, “Albergo della Corona d’Oro”.

She had some doubt: how to paint these letters before attaching them on the façade without damaging the bon ton of the hotel? She decided, better, without colors. She left them in concrete color. The choice showed a lot of prudent.

The luxuries of a time (like telephone) slowly became normal necessity for every single room. Giaconda Raspi Paulucci, who “guided” the “resurrection” of the hotel, adapting it to the times and needs of clients, yet without a successor.

And in 1969, the “Società Liberty” owned by two foreigners succeeded; Giovanni Tellarini (incredibly a Polish national, in spite of a very Italian first and last name) and an Australian, Joseph Doyle.

I believe that my old friend Agostino Torati, the savvy Bonaventura, and Giaconda would have been a little disturbed from their eternal sleeps by such“internationalization” of the property of “their” authentic business, profoundly patronage by conquering, for centuries, the fame of exemplar hotel for Bolognese receptiveness and hospitality.

A sentiment, anyhow, has accumulated those who had made the Corona d’Oro live and prosper: the love for the beauty, for my past, for the testimony of arts and customs that I, for centuries, have represented.

ROOMS & SUITES
All rooms, as the result of a recent restoration, have refine decors that contribute to create an enchanting atmosphere, an expression of constant attention to details that characterizes the style of the hotel.

The rooms and suites are very pleasant and a hallmark of every comfort. Every room has its own precious fabric from which one can admire the characteristic glimpses of the medieval city that add to every unforgettable stay.

SUITES
Hotel Corona D’Oro, along with the double rooms Classic and Deluxe, is proud to house three beautiful suites. The most important is the Suite Deluxe.

It offers two great separate ambiences and preserves a part of the fresco-panelled ceilings that are present inside the upper part of the suite from the XV and XVI centuries and painted with coat of arms and in Latin.

Luxurious living rooms with armchairs and couches precede the bedroom, lavishly decorated with precious tapestries and complementary furniture to recreate the grandeur of historical residence.

The other two suites are characterized by very big single area. The room opens to the day area that remains separated from the night area by a designated closet as a dividing wall. All suites have big refine bathrooms with luxurious marble and are fitted with both bathtub and shower.

In order to improve your sleep in our hotel, we are glad to offer you the possibility to choose a suitable pillow that fits to your needs. For a relaxing sleep and for a right posture. We have a selection of pillows that you may choose directly dialing to the reception.

DELUXE ROOMS
The double rooms Deluxe are rooms of superior category, characterized by elegance and spacious ambience. Conceived and decorated as a hallmark of luxury, these rooms are bright and rich in finishing touches. They offer two different solutions, a wide and comfortable king size bed or two twin beds.

Like Classic, the double rooms Deluxe have precious fabrics and are the result of a recent restoration, yet the Deluxe version distinguishes itself by having an designated angle for a sitting room inside.

They are the full expression of classic style hotel. They offer pleasant king-size bed or two separate twin beds. Some of the double rooms Deluxe are enriched with romantic balconies, ideal for breakfast or aperitif in total privacy along with the view of red roofs and medieval towers of the city.

The rooms are fitted with precious wooden flooring and have wide marble bathrooms with bathtub or shower. Double rooms Deluxe are available to both smokers and non-smokers.

The Hotel Corona D’Oro offers just 3 Deluxe rooms with balcony. We will be more than pleased to satisfy any specific request accordingly to availability. It may be required a small daily fee to guarantee advance booking of the room with a balcony.

In order to improve your sleep in our hotel, we are glad to offer you the possibility to choose a suitable pillow that fits to your needs. For a relaxing sleep and for a right posture. We have a selection of pillows that you may choose directly dialing to the reception.

CASA AZZOGUIDI RESTAURANT
Hotel Corona D’Oro is proud to announce the birth of the newest jewel in the house, the first in-house restaurant to open in the fall of 2021. Casa Azzoguidi stands in one of the city’s oldest buildings, built in the 14th century and undergoing a major restoration in 1905.

In the Middle Ages this place represented the heart of the ancient city of Bologna; in fact in the thirteenth century in this area rose towers whose names belong to the history of Bologna: Guidozagni, Uguzzoni, Prendiparte and Altabella (originally called Azzoguidi Tower).

During the restoration of the early twentieth century, under the perfectly preserved wooden porch that we can still admire, appeared some coats of arms, then traced back to the noble family Azzoguidi, who wanted the construction of this building and held the property for centuries.

In this same building was located in 1470 the first printing house in Bologna, started by Baldassarre Azzoguidi. What you will find when you cross the threshold of Casa Azzoguidi, will be a contemporary and international location, with Art Nouveau design and a refined style and attention to detail, an elegant but at the same time welcoming and enveloping with its atmosphere of soft colors and fine finishes.

The cuisine of Casa Azzoguidi will not fail to amaze you with proposals ranging from the excellence of national cuisine to a selection of the best traditional Bolognese, local and regional dishes.

THE BREAKFST
Hotel Corona D’Oro takes care of its guests from the moment they wake up, and puts big emphasis on breakfast by offering great assortments of delicacies in the beautiful Liberty Lobby. Every morning, from 7:30 to 10:00 a buffet composed of abundant variety of fresh and quality products that awaits guests to start a good day.

To accompany the aromas of hot coffee, one also finds great choices for salty and sweet products that satisfy all tastes and necessities: in the angle of sweets, there are fragrant brioches and an assortment of delicious and fresh pastries (cream, honey, chocolate) as well as traditional cakes among which are honey tart, torta della nonna (gramma’s cake with cream and pine nuts), ricotta cake, fruit tart, marmalade tart, chocolate and pear tart, carrot cake, rice tart, plumcakes, and pancakes are all homemade and accompanied by maple and agave syrup, cereals and granolas, dry fruits also to provide the energy to take on a business meeting or a pleasant day of visiting the historical city center.

For salty breakfast lovers, delicious scrambled eggs and bacon, hard-boiled eggs, dressed or plan Russian salad, cold cuts from the traditional Emilian cuisine and mixed cheese board; flatbreads with tomatoes, oregano, and vegetables; selections of white sandwiches with prosciutto; and whole grain bread all come from the bests bakeries of Bologna.

Furthermore, there are fruit salad, fruits in syrup, seasonal fruits all year round, yogurt, marmalades, honey, hazelnut cream, all accompanied by caffè espresso, caffè americano, cappuccino, fresh milk, great selection of teas and infusions, minerale water, various fruit juices, freshly juiced citrus, and prosecco to start a celebrative day!

For guests with other needs, an angle completely dedicated to gluten free products, soymilk for vegans and vegetarians.

MEETINGS
Hotel Corona D’Oro also houses a small convention center with three meeting rooms with various capacities and equipped with the most modern technical tools. The meeting rooms vary in sizes and characteristics.

Hotel Corona D’Oro organizes meetings, conventions, business conferences, and events at the hotel and other carefully selected prestigious locations in the city center based on the clients’ necessities. At its heart is the possibility of fully living a first-hand experience in the excellent and typical Bolognese traditions.

We avail ourselves with highly trusted partners in catering for gala events and food services in general, companies in charge of transfer services, expert tour guides, agencies for activity management of the whole territory and province: eno-gastronomic tour in the city center and beyond, visits and tastings at production sites, such as: Balsamic Vinegar, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and Prosciutto di Parma that make up a part of the so-called “food valley,” visits to the “motor valley” (for the motor passionate) close to Bologna where there are factories and museums of Ducati, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati.

BOLOGNA & SURROUNDINGS
Bologna, capital of Emilia-Romagna, is affectionately defined by its citizens as “la Dotta, la Rossa, e la Grassa” (the Learned, the Red, and the Fat). La Dotta is dedicated for its university which is the oldest in the western world, founded in 1088, and continues today to attract Italian and foreign students, maintaining its very active role as cultural center.

La Rossa represents the unique color of its roofs and houses that contribute to maintain the vivid atmosphere of the city during medieval period. Lastly, Bologna

La Grassa is an honor for its well-known and famous gastronomic traditions: the Bolognese cuisine is rich, flavorful, and known all over the world, especially for its typical dishes: tortellini, lasagna with meat ragout, mortedella, succulent cotoletta alla Bolognese, only to name a few.

Piazza Maggiore is the main piazza (square) of Bologna. It was originally built on a grass field; in 1200, the city started to acquire houses and lands to construct a square that would represent the importance of the city institution as well as reunite various activities (commercial and services).

The square, as it is today, is the result of numerous transformations that began from the XIII century and intended to give the city its symbolic center, which it still preserves today.

San Petronio is the main church of Bologna: it dominates Piazza Maggiore, and in spite of being unfinished, it is the sixth largest church in Europe. The construction began in 1390 under the direction of Antonio di Vincenzo.

In 1514, Arduino degli Arriguzzi proposed a new Latin cross model that would have made the church bigger than Saint Peter’s Church in Rome. According to legend, Pope Pius IV blocked the construction of this over-ambitious dream, demanding the workers to build Archiginnasio.

The symbol of Bologna, the two towers are strategically located in the entrance point of the ancient city on Via Emilia. The Asinelli tower, erected in 1119 by Gherardo Asinelli, a nobleman from the Ghibellini family; it is 97,20 meters tall and houses 498-step stair case; it leans 2,32 meters westward.

The Garisenda Tower, erected in the XII century by the noblemen Garisenda and Ghibellini, is 48, 60 meters tall and leans 3,22 meters northeastward. During Dante period, the sonnet cites the Garisenda tower of 1278 and in canto XXXI of the Inferno, the tower was given another 60 meters in height.

It is the most unique complex of Bologna, a genuine and true city sanctuary. The origins of the complex, also known as “sette chiese” (seven churches), are particularly controversial.

Built on an ancient pagan temple, the complex was ought to be a devoted copy of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem; through the centuries, the complex saw a series of expansions that brought not only one but seven churches, and one of these churches became famous for an unexpected discovery that required an “extraordinary” intervention from the pope.

A legend attributes the foundation of the complex to a Bolognese bishop Petronio, who would have wanted to reproduce and dedicate to Santo Stefano (Saint Stephen) the locations of the Passion of Christ.

The Church of Santa Maria della Vita was founded in the second half of the XIII century by the Battuti or Flagellati Confraternity, the name derives from the confraternity brothers’ habit of whipping the body as punishment.

The “Compianto del Cristo Morto” (Lamentation of Christ), is made of seven terracotta statues, a work of sculptor Nicolò dell’Arca (dated from 1463 to 1464), as well as his most celebrated work, the marble statues arch of San Domenico Church.

“Compianto del Cristo Morto” has seven figures on foot: Nicodemo, Madonna, San Giovanni Apostolo, Maria Maddalena, two other Marys, and the dead Christ, lying on a catafalque with his head resting on a pillow.

The Pinacoteca of Bologna offers a panoramic view of Emilian paintings from the XIII to XVIII century; nevertheless without the lack of fundamental masterpieces from non-Bolognese artists who had direct contacts but not with the city. Among the most modern and important National Galleries, the Pinacoteca of Bologna opened to the public in 1885.

Totally renovated in 1997, the Pinacoteca today houses more than 30 exhibit rooms: Fine Arts rooms and modernly equipped spaces in the basement, as well as hosting temporary exhibitions of medium and big projects, educational activities, seminars, and conventions.

Located in the Colle della Guardia hills, the sanctuary is one of the symbols of Bologna. With more than 600 continuous arch porticos, the only one in the world with almost four kilometers (3,796 m) in length, connect the sanctuary to the city and is an important part of the procession every year since 1433 that brings the Byzantine Mary and Child to the cathedral during the week of Ascension.

The sanctuary history is connected to the icon that safeguards from within, which gave the origins on the foundation of the sanctuary itself and established its faith for many centuries, making it a pilgrimage site.

The porticos of Bologna represent an important architectural and cultural patrimony of the city; they are the symbol of Bologna along with the numerous towers. In 2006, the porticos are inserted in the Italian Tentative List of sites to become a UNESCO World Heritage Patrimony.

Rain or snow, summer heat or wind, the porticos of Bologna, with a length of almost 40 kilometers, decorate this unique city, allowing comfortable strolls in the city center, shopping, going from one museum to another, and a haven for every season.

The seven secrets recount a Bologna that lives in the memories passed on from generation to generation. Not only Bologna with its history, culture, and architectural beauties, but also a city with legends well rooted in the popular traditions that talk about the seven secrets to discovery if visited accurately.

The cross vault in Piazza Maggiore that transmit sounds from one side to the other, the statue of Neptune if viewed from Sala Borsa seems to be an impression of an erected penis, the “piccola Venezia” (Small Venice) from a small window on Via Piella that gives a glimpse to the Reno River, the arrow inserted in the outside wall of a house on Strada Maggiore, arches written in Latin “panis vita, canabis protetio, vinum laetitia” (bread life, cannabis protection, wine pleasure), the broken vase on the top of the Asinelli Tower, and the antique table in the university with the writing “panum resis” (knowledge as the foundation of every decision).

Bologna is a charming city that allows, moving away from the center, to enjoy spectacles of nature and make out relaxing and rejuvenating excursions. Here are some tips: The city is surrounded by spaces that are full of color during the summer.

The green lung Margherita Garden, the oldest Montagnola Park, Di Forte Bandiera Park and many others. Enjoy relax moments, a bike excursion and a picnic in these magnificent gardens. Not only in the center, but also in the suburbs you can find cultural exhibition and entertainment.

The open-air Ca ‘la Ghironda museum with its modern art collections of contemporary painting and sculpture; Villa delle Rose, has been a place of the Gallery of Modern Art and now houses temporary exhibitions.

Bike tour ideas: Rhine Valley and Savena Valley, Senio Valley and Lamone Valley, Mount of ants, Serravalle Castle. Other attractions: Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, Certosa Monumental Cemetery, Sanctuary of the Monte delle Formiche.

It is possible to book in advance an exclusive experience that will enrich your stay in the beautiful city of Bologna, choose a cultural, artistic, eno-gastronomic tour, a trip out of town and much more.

Rooms: 40

Price: from 178 EUR per night

Source: www.hco.it

Palazzo di Varignana is a prestigious, elegant venue on the Bolognese hills. An eighteenth-century villa, restored to its original splendour, is the setting for an exclusive location for relaxing stays or business events.

PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
For the most sophisticated guests, a real 76 square meter apartment, the perfect synthesis of design, comfort and style. A privileged location, modern and refined furnishings, a large and bright environment with parquet and large windows, offer guests an elegant and classy stay.

This luxurious Suite is equipped with a sitting area and a sauna that connects the bedroom with the main terrace of 20 square meters in which there is a hot tub. The second terrace, in the bedroom, offers one of the most fascinating 360 ° views of the entire resort.

Equipped with: 55 ” LED TV with Mediaset Premium, minibar, air conditioning, internet via cable and Wi-Fi, safe for laptop and / or tablet, Nespresso coffee machine, private parking.

THE VILLA AMAGIOIA
Amagioia is divided into two floors and offers interiors with a timeless charm, in which classic and modern elements have been harmoniously combined. The recent renovation has created a welcoming but at the same time refined environment, respecting the original design.

The ground floor has two comfortable bedrooms for 4 people both with private bathroom. The living room is bright thanks to its large windows and offers direct access to the garden.

An imposing wooden staircase leads to the first floor with another living room and three bedrooms: two deluxe rooms and a junior suite, both with private marble bathrooms. The master bedroom features a walk-in shower, which connects the bedroom with the bathroom.

The two floors of the residence are connected by a beautiful two-storey library designed by local artisans. On the ground floor, a conservatory of over 40 sqm leads to a private garden with oaks part of a unique collection in Italy.

Guests have access to a private 100sqm infinity pool, a 19sqm hot tub and a large solarium from which they can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills. All meals can be consumed at the resort’s restaurants. Guests can also decide to book a private chef service or cook by themselves in the perfectly equipped kitchen on the ground floor.

IL PALAZZO RESTAURANT
The elegant Il Palazzo restaurant is located in the most stunning building of the Resort, where style and beauty are the setting for the most sophisticated dining venue.

Our original gourmet dishes have been created from a painstaking and expert interpretation of the tradition of creative cooking and local cuisine. For more discerning palates, dishes are paired with meticulous attention to detail, making the most of all their flavour and nutritional aspects.

The sophisticated, stylish interiors, perfectly accompanying the historical setting of the Villa, combine with a cuisine that exalts noble tastes and a strong local tradition which is also focussed on a new contemporary approach.

The five elegant, discreet dining rooms can accommodate up to 50 people, while a separate dining room for 24 may be booked for special occasions. Our exclusive wine cellar offers a selection of local wines alongside prestigious national and international labels – perfect for accompanying a unique gourmet dining experience.

AUREVO RESTAURANT
Standing in the grounds of the Resort, with large windows overlooking the pool and water features of the solarium, AUREVO Pool Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a unique alternative for a relaxing poolside lunch or dinner, admiring the stunning surroundings.

Aurevo is a tribute to our Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Green Gold of these lands, precious fruit of the olive groves that today draw the profile of the resort, that has become the soul of our kitchen: a direct, contemporary and sustainable cuisine, a meeting between Emilia Romagna Region and Italian excellences, the result of the work of a team of young and creative chefs, capable of giving new life to tradition.

LOUNGE BAR
Wonderful outdoor terraces overlooking the stunning surrounding nature, with its wide variety of cocktails, the Lounge Bar is the perfect place to enjoy delicious after work aperitifs or relaxing after dinner during the weekend. The charm of an intimate and elegant bar that can become the ideal venue for events and business meetings.

LE MARZOLINE
For those who love the great culinary tradition of the Emilia-Romagna region, Palazzo di Varignana proposes “Le Marzoline” restaurant, a homage to the typical “trattoria” of the bolognese area, immersed in the lush greenery of the hills surrounding Varignana.

An ancient 2 floors country house completely restored and designed to accommodate a total of 90 people in the indoor area, while during the summertime another 100 can be accomodated in the charming exterior dehor.

WEDDINGS
A small, charming consecrated church inside Palazzo Bentivoglio is the perfect location for symbolic ceremonies, with vintage cars, tailored menus with locally grown products of our territory and our event planners at your complete disposal.

We take care of all the aspects of your wedding and will check any single detail to create the magic that only a professional may guarantee, with creativity and originality.

For intimate and reserved ceremonies, up to a maximum of 70 guests, we offer Villa Amagioia, an elite and highly suggestive location, thanks to the extraordinary natural scenery that surrounds it, with a 5 – hectare park and private swimming pool.

MEETINGS & EVENTS
Parties and private celebrations, corporate events, gala dinners, receptions, cocktail parties, buffets, presentations, fashions shows and other events can all be catered for in a perfect setting, thanks to our Chefs who can advise on the best choices, creating bespoke menus for your needs.

Palazzo di Varignana Studios is part of a wide range of professional services intended for the congress world. The Studios present a professional television set for streaming and broadcasting your events, meetings, conferences or commercials.

Available: 100 meters of virtual set with 30×30 cm American ring, guaranteed synchronous band up to 200 + 200mb, green screen 7.5 x 3 my, ledwall 450 x 250 cm and control box with 6 stations of 16 sqm

A cutting-edge technological service supported by partners of excellence for the organization of private or corporate events, both live and recorded, in an elegant and refined setting

The historical wine cellars of the Villa lead out to an elegant and spacious foyer, from where the 300 m2 Congress Centre can be accessed, with natural light and large windows with black-out blinds – the perfect venue for every type of event.

A gallery of precious objects and antiques links to the Belvedere Area, a 770 square meters of multi-functional location on two levels, perfect both as an exhibition space and as a location for banqueting, fashion shows, music and dance events, receptions and presentations.

HEALTH & WELLNESS
Varsana Spa Health & Wellness – the spa in its new concept discovers its Health dimension, which is the vocation of a holiday dedicated to the knowledge of new lifestyles, for those who want to find a better physical shape and a greater mental balance, balancing stress and energy for total harmony between body, mind and psyche

VARSANA
The traditional path of VARSANA SPA, included in the overnight stay, is 3 hours and includes: access to the Grotta dei Calanchi and the Cava d’Oro Bianco, swimming pools with hydromassage, Finnish sauna, Mediterranean sauna, Turkish bath, emotional showers, hydrosound pool and relaxation area with herbal tea corner.

OUTDOOR POOLS
The outdoor pools are available to our guests in the period between May, 15th and September.

TREATMENTS
Let VARSANA SPA’s wellness professional team surprise and pamper you with its traditional yet innovative approach to personal care and well-being techniques.

FACIAL TREATMENTS
Each facial treatment is a perfect opportunity to indulge and get your glow back. Treatments can also be enjoyed as a couple, to share an unforgettable experience.

BODY TREATMENTS
A whole host of treatments is available – choose from the most suitable for your needs – relaxing, toning, moisturising, peeling, radiofrequency.

BEAUTY SERVICES
Our beauty services, such as the SPA pedicure, SPA manicure, application of varnishes and Shellac are a must before a big event, a special evening or simply as a pampering treatment. And why not ask our wellbeing experts to book a session for you with a professional make-up artist and hair stylist.

MASSAGES
Numerous types of massages are available, from gentle, light sessions to more vigorous treatments, designed to invigorate, to enjoy alone or as a couple – to pamper yourself alongside your loved one. Our massages include LomiLomi Hawaiian, Thai and Swedish massage, reflexology, lymph drainage, as well as Hot Stone, Candle.

ARS VIVENDI RITUALS
It is in the search for the art of living that in all cultures of the world and in the most ancient traditions there are rituals for the body and mind capable of creating harmony and well-being. From Japan to Morocco, obviously passing through the great spa culture of the ancient Rome.

Ars Vivendi combines the experiential path dedicated to the typical purification of the Muslim tradition, (Hammam), with the spiritual path of the traditional Japanese bath (Ofuro) and the exclusive resources of the territory represented by the olive tree and its derivatives used for treatments and rituals back in the ancient Rome.

PADDLE TENNIS, SQUASH AND TENNIS
The Resort has 3 sports’ courts. From the synthetic resin tennis and paddle courts it is possible to enjoy a magnificent view of the hills that surround the Resort. Inside the sports area there is also basketball markings for free practise. For lovers of indoor sports there is a squash court.

The tennis courts are available from 8.00 to 22.00 every day by reservation. If you wish to rent sports equipment, please contact the reception of VARSANA SPA.

GOLF
The Resort currently features an 8-hole putting green, perfect for beginners wishing to train their short shot. A new driving range will be available from September 2021 and will have 11 long shooting positions with a wonderful view over our estates.

“Le Fonti” Golf Club of Castel San Pietro Terme, our preferred partner, offers an 18-hole course open all year round.

WELLNESS TRAILS
The private park offers a wellness trail designed to meet the needs of those who wish to carry out physical exercises at various levels, from recreational to competitive, or just dedicated to those who want to go for a walk outdoors.

Three routes of different distances (500m, 1880, 1180mt); the third route is undoubtedly the most scenic and allows you to discover two beautiful artificial lakes designed to ensure the irrigation of the gardens of the Palazzo di Varignana and Villa Amagioia. It’s possibile to count on the expertise of our wellness experts for tips on routes and difficulty levels.

CYCLING
The resort can provide city and mountain bikes for its guests to discover the beautiful landscapes of the area. In summer (May / October) our guests can also enjoy a ride with our E-bikes, perfect for uphill routes through the hills.

The bikes can be rent for free at the reception, which can suggest fascinating routes along the dorsanti of our hills based on the difficulty level.

GYM
A modern gym, exclusively for the Resort’s guests, equipped with latest-generation Technogym equipment, open 24 hours. A personal trainer is on hand to devise a tailor-made programme for your needs and help you achieve your goals.

HEALTH PROGRAMS
Varsana Spa discovers its Health dimension, that is the vocation of a holiday dedicated to the knowledge of new lifestyles suitable for those who want to find a better physical shape and a greater mental balance, balancing stress and energy for a total harmony between body and mind and psyche.

A personalized approach to the guest who discovers the added value of having a Health Coach available during their vacation. Nutritionist Dr. Annamaria Acquaviva accompanies the guest through a journey of awareness towards well-being, with attention to the latest scientific and nutritional findings.

“Our mindfulness program is highly innovative and based on the most recent scientific findings, aims to stimulate metabolic activity, fight oxidative stress and support the immune system.

From a holistic perspective, the proposals of VARSANA SPA promote relaxation and beauty with massages and personalized beauty treatments, carried out with exclusive products also based on our extra virgin olive oil. “

The new Medical Center of Palazzo di Varignana is now open. A program of activities and treatments is available to promote the immune system and metabolic activity, under the guidance of Dr. Annamaria Acquaviva.

The Medical Office makes use of the experience of Dr. Maria Immacolata de Vicariis, surgeon who will practice Oxygen-Ozone therapy. This therapy is aimed at enhacing the immune system while fighting against free radicals and oxidation of tissues.

Another innovative proposal is IV Therapy, intravenous injections of different mixes of vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants.

VIVENDO VARIGNANA
There are pages of history that we would have never imagined, let alone desired, to write and today we are certainly facing one of these.

We live in a suspended reality and, to preserve everyone’s safety, all we can do is remain still and give up everyday life, a particularly heavy effort for us, because at Palazzo di Varignana our everyday life coincides with our greatest passion: our job.

Today we are all well aware that it is necessary to keep distances from each other and we have been wondering for days how to shorten them and continue to feel close to all of you.

It is for this reason that we tried to transform this hard moment into an opportunity to tell you what’s the real meaning of LIVING VARIGNANA: through stories, recipes and videos we will try to show you us, our roots, the passion we put in each of our agri-food products and how life keeps flowing, even if, for now, only “behind the scenes” ”, looking forward to meeting you again.

It is in the darkest moments that the true spirit of a community emerges and, perhaps never as today, here at Palazzo di Varignana we feel the strength of that “Heritage of Italian style” that we have in our claim.

Italy is a country with a thousand resources, which, in the face of difficulties, does not give up, but reinvents itself. We are sure that this is only the umpteenth obstacle that we will overcome, with the resilience and strength that distinguish our history, ready to raise up and welcome you again, offering you all the best tradition of Italian hospitality.

ART & CULTURE
The mosaic of Claterna, among the most ancient examples known of tessellatum, goes back to the second half of the first century before Christ, at the beginning of the great building expansion between the Augustan Age and the first century after Christ, a period in which most of the production of wall mosaics for country villas and urban domus is concentrated.

The Mosaic is accomplished in white Istria stone tesserae, pistoian black and mosaic stone cuts in various colours. Every first and third Sunday of the month from 9.00 to 11.00 will be possible to visit for free both the mosaic and the wundekammer of Palazzo di Varignana. Reservation required.

THE GARDEN
In 2015, Palazzo di Varignana adjoins to its prestigious outlets three hectars of luxurious Garden already part of the important Italian network “Great Italian Gardens”.

Immersed in the beautiful scenery of the Emilian countryside, Palazzo di Varignana’s inspiring Garden was designed by landscape architect Antonio Perazzi who created a magnificent Garden where the countryside, nature and formal features come together with irresistible spontaneity thanks to low walls, terraces, stairs, fountains and a beautiful infinity pool.

Remarkable is certainly the collection of oak trees selected by Mr. Perazzi , for a total of 100 copies with 76 different species , one of the most important arboreal heritage in Italy.

After passing a small forestal covered walk of ash trees and other native plants, one arrives at the Garden’s first part where geometric theme rooms open into each other and are harmoniously divided by hedges of ginko biloba, hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) and rows of trees maple (Acer campestre) which accommodate the bushes of roses, grasses, ornamental cherry and dogwood (Cornus mas) offering a view that stretches over the picturesque landscape.

Beyond the apple blossom gallery and the roses, a green labyrinth appears (Labirinto Carlico)

It’s original plan was designed in 2015 from landscape designer Sandro Ricci who created the harmonious union of the Garden with the existing twenty-hectare park. The originality of the design of the labyrinth derives from the overlap of Ilatro hedges (Phyllirea angustifolia) and an existing orchard.

In the heart of the park, the real ornamental Garden winds its way around the former country villa, embracing it on every side. The five bedroom villa is surrounded by numerous herbaceous species, Mediterranean trees and shrubs, abundant blooms of broom and fragrant osmanthus bushes.

The private park of Palazzo of Varignana and its Garden enriched with five olive trees Olea europea, secular examples from Southern Italy.

THE RIO ROSSO VEGETABLE GARDEN
On the hillside, south west of the Rio Rosso Farm, a network of countryside paths allows to cross the Almond grove with two later varieties (Prunus Dulcis Soleta and Lauranne) and a plantation of Goji (Lycium barbarum) in slender spindle system.

To the east, a multi centenary olive tree stands on top of the terraces intended for the cultivation of aromatic and healing herbs.

At the foot of the slope, a multitude of routes offer the possibility to observe different species of unusual fruits (Asimina (pawpaw), Panachè Fig, Red Love Apple), vertical trellis of table grapes and many varieties of forgotten fruits as Jujubes or Plumcots or ancient varieties of Apple trees, Pear trees, (some also dating back to the 18th century – ‘Curato’ variety-1760).

A collection of minor Fruits, the elder grove and a Hazel orchard complete the cultivable area before the untouched woodland area, typical of our hills.

LIVING VARIGNANA
Palazzo di Varignana is a prestigious, elegant venue in the Emilia countryside. An eighteenth-century villa, restored to its original splendour, is the setting for an exclusive location for relaxing stays or business events.

UNIQUE FLAVOURS OF EMILIA-ROMAGNA REGION
The Emilia-Romagna region has always benefited from the agriculture productive capacity, with products of unsurpassed quality ensuring a unique gastronomic wisdom through the passing of time and the changes in tastes.

The famous Prosciutto di Parma and the PDO Parmigiano are just a few of the many PDO and PGI products that make this Region the European ‘Food Valley’.

EVO & WINE TASTING
The passion that the founder of Palazzo di Varignana has for the olive tree and the history of this area have led to the recent creation of new modern and rational olive groves for the production of high quality extra virgin olive oil.

Experience a journey to discover the extra virgin olive oils and wines of Palazzo di Varignana through a tasting itinerary guided by our expert sommeliers. Every Friday and Saturday At 6.00 PM

FINE DINING
A unique experience to discover the tastes and flavours of Emilia-Romagna, exploring the restaurants, osterias and tavernas that have skillfully re-elaborated the culinary tradition in a modern, imaginative way.

VARIGNANA
Distance from the resort: 0,5 km. Medieval fortress, with an antique tower and the ancient Romanesque crypt of St. Lorenzo, with massive rocks in the internal walls and precious capitals with eight columns, each entirely different from each other. A pleasant walk a few steps from Palazzo di Varignana.

CASTEL SAN PIETRO TERME
Distance from the resort: 8.5 km. A well-known city thanks to its thermal bath, located under the green hills at the border between Emilia and Romagna.

In 2005, the city gained the certification “Cittaslow” (slow city), consequently Castel San Pietro Terme entered the “International Network of Cities of Good Living” distinguished by the high quality of life and the numerous services available to citizens and visitors.

Over the signs of the original Roman and medieval plant, the old town presents a handsome seven- and -eighteenth century atmosphere, characterized by the traditional elements of the arcade that reminds a lot of the nearby Bologna.

DOZZA
Distance from the resort: 17 km. Dozza is an interesting medieval village where art plays a very important role in the cultural life of its people; the town hosts the Biennial Festival of the Painted Wall (Biennale del Muro Dipinto), an event in which artists from different backgrounds paint artworks on the walls of the houses, turning Dozza into an open-air-art-gallery.

You should visit the local landmark, the Sforza’s Castle (Rocca sforzesca), whose cellars host a Enoteca Regionale, a wineshop and winebar dedicated to oenologic products of Emilia-Romagna.

BOLOGNA
Distance from the resort: 19 km. Lose yourself in the innumerable alleys of the historical centre of Bologna, you will discover local tavernas and deli shops at every corner. Enjoy the throbbing life of the university district, just a few steps away from the Two Towers, the symbol of the city.

RAVENNA
Distance from the resort: 64 km. Ancient capital of the Roman Empire, the Kingdom of the Ostrogoths and the Byzantine Empire. Observing along the roads one notes the traces of the ancient center of the lagoon and the presence of water in the canals, closed during the Venetian domination.

The historic center of Ravenna feels in particular the influence of the Byzantine civilization, characteristics are documented by the beautiful basilicas and battisteri in which is stored the richest heritage of mosaics from the fifth and sixth centuries.

Any place in the city, from the park of Theodoric to the Planetarium, from the Garden of Forgotten Herbs to the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe, is easily reachable via the many cycle paths. The tomb of Dante Alighieri, who died in this city of Romagna, is located near the Basilica of St. Francis.

FERRARA
Distance from the resort: 72 km. The small town, declared World Heritage by UNESCO was the capital of the House of Este (Ducato Estense ) until 1598, the year of devolution to the State of the Church. Ferrara still preserved the tranquility of the Italian provincial towns, while maintaining its testimonies of ancient glories.

The most iconic building of the town is the imposing Castello Estense (Castle Estense ), sited in the very centre of the town; around the magnificent cathedral we still find the streets of the medieval area, with its narrow roads and tiny churches in Gothic style as well as the ancient Jewish Ghetto and Synagogue.

SAN MARINO
Distance from the resort: 105 km. The oldest Republic in Europe not only lives for history. Events, festivals, races and competitions, music and theater are all part of a series of proposals for reviving old and living new emotions for its visitors in the context of one of the most fascinating tourist destinations of the world.

From shopping to cultural events, through the review of important historical occasions, there are always many occasions to visit San Marino.

RIMINI
Distance from the resort: 105 km. Rimini is not just a holiday resort on the Riviera of Romagna, but also a city of distinctive historical and cultural level.

The Roman Colony was founded in 268 BC, on its soil Roman emperors erected monuments such as the Arch of Augustus (l’Arco d’Augusto), Tiberius’ Bridge (Ponte di Tiberio) and the Amphitheatre, while during the early Renaissance, under the Malatesta, the court was one of the most vibrant ones of its era, hosting artists like Leon Battista Alberti, Piero della Francesca, Roberto Valturio, Matteo de ‘Pasti and producing works such as the Malatesta Temple (Tempio Malatestiano).

FIRENZE
Distance from the resort: 136 km. Founded by the Romans in the first century BC, Florence is one of the most breathtaking cities in Europe. Celebrated as the birthplace of the Renaissance, the city is home to many of its most famous artistic treasures.

It has an exceptional artistic patrimony, Cimabue and Giotto, the fathers of Italian painting, the genes Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, Boccaccio, Dante.

FASHION GALLERIA CAVOUR
Live your ‘Fashion Luxury’ experience inside a cathedral of the Bolognese shopping.Located in the very heart of the historical centre of Bologna, nestled between historic buildings, a few steps away from the majestic San Petronio cathedral, Galleria Cavour has been offering the top of the international high-end fashion since the 1950s, with more than 30 shops of prestigious brands such as: Armani, Bulgari, Gucci and many others.

CASTEL GUELFO 
Just a few kilometres from the Resort, ‘Castel Guelfo The style outlet’ matches style, quality and convenience, showcasing over 100 outlet stores of prestigious brands of clothing, accessories, cosmetics and sports items.

FIDENZA VILLAGE
Fidenza Outlet Village is a Shopping Centre of excellence in the surroundings of Parma and one of the the most popular outlets of the Emilia-Romagna Region and in Italy. Fidenza Village has been designed to offer a relaxing shopping experience, a holiday strolling along the shopping avenues of a perfectly reconstructed elegant town.

The village hosts more than 100 shops and boutiques, offering a fine selection of the best brands of clothing, accessories, home items, with discounts up to 60% and more on standard prices.

VARIGNANA MUSIC FESTIVAL
Palazzo di Varignana and Fondazione Musica Insieme will meet you in 2021 of the seventh edition of the Varignana Music Festival. The Varignana Music Festival is a summer classical-music event that each year welcomes some of the most acclaimed international musicians in a series of stimulating concerts.

Developed together with the Musica Insieme Foundation, the Festival’s refined programme has an original format: at the end of every concert, a dinner with the artists extends the audience’s contact with the performers beyond the stage in a fitting conclusion to a magic encounter.

LEGACY FOR THE FUTURE
“I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve found myself answering the same question: what on earth motivated you, after a busy life traveling around the world, working in the digital sector and in the intangible Fintech industry, to invest in such a complex and tangible project as a historic resort and in Varignana?

The answer goes back a long way and has taken shape over the years, from spending time with so many people from different cultures, having branches and offices across four continents, and spending time in many hotels around the world.

I think business trips and tourism are the main activities that unite people, sharing their experiences, culture, lifestyle, food and traditions… and hotels are one of the most important places to meet.

What’s more, particularly in America, there’s a tradition: if someone has been lucky in life, at a certain point that person will want to take the success from a life of work back to the place where his or her roots lie, to leave a legacy for the future.

I naturally wanted to do this in Bologna, taking the values, work, beauty, works of art, and artifacts I’ve collected on my travels to the Varignana hills, which I’ve become increasingly attached to over the years.

In 2005, I decided to restore Palazzo Bargellini Bentivoglio, a kind of chateau, precisely to pay tribute to a beautiful area, with wonderful hills, rich in memories preserved over millennia, starting from the Roman Empire with Via Emilia and the hills where olive trees and vines were cultivated at that time.

And so this is also where we find the idea behind Palazzo di Varignana, a project of renovation and regeneration: of historical buildings, of abandoned land and farmhouses and their crops, such as olive tree and vines, which thanks to the significant reclamation of the agricultural land, have returned to mark out the profiles of the hills surrounding the Resort, where today our high quality, locally sourced produce comes from, and which we are proud to export all over the world.

Our daily commitment at Palazzo di Varignana 1705 is therefore to welcome our guests, giving them the chance to fully experience the history of this area, in the comfort offered by the Resort’s services, surrounded by the beauty of the large park and ornamental gardens, with spa experiences, fitness programs, and fine cuisine: basically everything we call “Heritage of Italian lifestyle”. (Varignana, 25 May 2020 Carlo Gherardi)

Rooms: 90

Price: from 163 EUR per night

Source: www.palazzodivarignana.com