Piazza Maggiore
Piazza Maggiore is the heart of Bologna, a bustling public square that serves as the city's central hub for social, political, and cultural activities. Surrounded by impressive historical buildings, the square is the perfect place to experience the city's atmosphere. It has a rectangular shape and is often busy with locals and tourists alike, enjoying the open space, street performances, cafes, and occasional events.

The square is flanked by several important buildings:

Palazzo del Podestà: An imposing medieval palace that once housed the city's magistrates. The building’s façade features Gothic architecture, and its Sala del Podestà is famous for its acoustics.
Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall): This Renaissance-style building serves as the city’s town hall. It is a fine example of Bologna’s civic architecture.
Fontana del Nettuno: A monumental fountain, located at the southern edge of the piazza, with a striking statue of Neptune, symbolizing Bologna’s connection to the sea despite being landlocked. The fountain’s design is by the sculptor Giambologna and is one of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Basilica di San Petronio
The Basilica di San Petronio is one of the most important landmarks in Bologna and one of the largest churches in Italy. Its façade, while grand, remains unfinished, which is a fascinating aspect of its history. The basilica was originally planned to be even larger, but construction was halted due to various historical and political reasons, including the intervention of the Pope, who wanted to prevent the church from surpassing the size of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

Architecture: The basilica’s architecture is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The façade, designed by several architects over the centuries, is made of pink and white marble and is decorated with intricate carvings. The interior, though simple in comparison to the grandeur of other Italian churches, is filled with stunning works of art, including frescoes and paintings by renowned artists such as Giovanni da Modena and Vincenzo Vangelisti.

Famous Features: One of the basilica's standout features is its Astronomical Clock, a 16th-century clock that once regulated time for the entire city. Another unique feature is the Basilica's Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, where visitors can admire the Frescoes of the Last Judgment.

Art and History: The basilica houses various works of art, including a magnificent altarpiece and beautiful frescoes that line the interior. The Giovanni da Modena frescoes, particularly those depicting the Last Judgment, are notable for their detailed representation of heaven and hell, showcasing medieval imagination.

The Basilica di San Petronio is not only a religious site but also a cultural and historical monument, embodying Bologna's rich history and artistic heritage. Its central location in Piazza Maggiore makes it a must-see landmark, offering visitors a chance to experience both the city’s architectural splendor and its historical significance.