Saragozza-Porto (Quartiere Saragozza) stretches from the edge of Bologna’s historic center into the foothills of the Bologna hills. The neighborhood has pretty gardens and landscape parks to complement an array of impressive medieval and religious structures. Visit Saragozza-Porto to walk a pilgrimage route, attend a soccer match and enjoy the scenic countryside.
The commanding Porta San Felice and Porta Saragozza stand as remnants of Bologna’s old city walls. Erected in the 1300s, these gateways served to protect the city from raiders. From the gates, stroll along cobblestone streets lined with elegant arcades, boutiques, cafés and trattorias. Visit the French Gothic-style Basilica di San Francesco, home to examples of the elaborate Graves of Glossatori.
Via Saragozza cuts through the heart of the neighborhood and is the place to find bakeries, cafés and restaurants that serve delicious Bolognese cuisine.
Relax in the undulating gardens of the neoclassical Villa Spada and at leafy Villa Cassarini Gardens. Attend a professional soccer match and go behind the scenes on a guided tour at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium.
Dedicate time to touring the neighborhood’s galleries and museums. The Museum of the Resistance of Bologna highlights Italy’s antifascism movement before, during and after World War II. See hundreds of audiovisual and communication devices at the Thousand Voices and Thousand Sounds Museum. Art lovers delight in the exhibitions at Palazzo Albergatti and MAMbo - Museo d’Arte Moderna di Bologna.
A pilgrimage route starts at the rococo-style Arco del Meloncello and follows the 666-arch Portico di San Luca to the hilltop Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Admire an icon of the Virgin Mary credited to St. Luke and marvel at the views over Bologna’s red rooftops. More splendid views await at San Pellegrini Park.
Reach Saragozza-Porto by catching public buses from Bologna’s main bus and train terminals. Several of the neighborhoods attractions are within comfortable walking distance of the city center. Rent a bike for a pleasant and healthy way to travel around the parks and hilly areas.
