Bologna
Bologna is the capital city of Umbria, in north central italy. It has a history which goes back to the Etruscans and continues with the Romans. One of it’s greatest claims is that it is the home of the oldest University, The University of Bologna, founded in 1080 A.D. The city is also known for it’s porticos throughout the city.
Archiginnasio and Teatro Anatomico
The Archiginnasio is part of the University of Bologna. It has the characteristic porticos of Bologna with beautiful frescos. The building dates back to the 16th century. It was heavily damaged by bombing during world war 2, but was restored afterwards. The Teatro Anatomico was used to train doctors. Cadavers were placed on the marble table in the middle of the room, a peephole allowed church officials to monitor lectures to make sure the teachings were acceptable to the church.
Lucio Dalla
Lucio Dalla was a popular Italian song writer, singer, musician and actor. He was born and lived in Bologna. After his death, the city placed the lyrics of one of his most popular songs in lights on this street where he lived. The song is “L’anno Verrà” , published in 1979. After a decade of terrorism, the assasination of a prominent politician, the rapid death of two popes, the country was shaken. “L’anno Verrà”, or “the next year”, was a positive look forward to the new year.
Towers of Bologna
During the middle ages, wealthy, prominent families built towers on their property in cities – Think Montagues and Capulets from Romeo and Juliet. They served as a defensive fortress as well as showing off wealth and importance. Cities later required that they be taken down as they posed a danger to authority and of collapse. Today in Bologna two towers remain. The complete taller tower is the Asinelli tower. The other shorter tower , the Garisenda, was partly taken down as it began to lean.
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