Jewelry at the old market quarters in central Bologna

My favorite SAI excursion, so far, would have to be the day trip to Bologna! Ironically, the ride there (about an hour and a half) was the worst ride of my life. I was very carsick, but thankfully, I didn’t get sick on the bus! As soon as we pulled into the city we went through the archway to enter the city and it was still connected to the same walls from when it was built. I thought this was extraordinary, considering the fact that you don’t enter through a fortressed city entrance back in the U.S.

One of the Asinelli towers (leaning tower of Bologna)

As soon as we got off the bus, my first impression was how quiet and peaceful the city was! I was relieved: Bologna is by far the most peaceful city that I’ve been to in Italy, and just as beautiful and full of culture/history as any other major city in Italy. I didn’t find the city polluted at all making it was very easy to enjoy the smells of pizza or coffee in a nearby restaurant. The food was beyond amazing: an appetizer of mixed bruschetta, focaccia and salami; a first course of tagliatelle with bolognese meat sauce and ravioli with butter and sage sauce; a second course of grilled vegetables and roasted potatoes; and our dessert was millefoglie. I was so excited to eat this meal, considering how Bologna is known for their bolognese sauce and prosciutto.

Street artwork

The guided tour around the city was most constructive. I learned about all of the different Palaces in Bologna and what they use to be used for, for example, the Palace of Justice for breaking the law and arguments amongst merchants that weren’t resolved, ect. I also learned about the University of Bologna, the first University in all of Europe, and how family’s would try and have their sons sent their and have their family seal on a plaque on the wall (see picture #5). This university had such an impact on the shaping of Europe and it was very educational to be able to visit.

Inside the Basilica of Santo Stefano

We were also able to visit the old market quarters next to the Basilica of Santo Stefano. There was a huge “garage-sale” going on the day I was there, and I loved being able to spend some free time looking at all of the tables! There was a lot of jewelry, books, and furniture being sold, amongst hundreds of other things. While touring through the inside of the Basilica, I was able to see a lot of old monuments and artwork! I loved seeing how old the brick floors and pillars were and thinking about how people 600 years ago went here. The city of Bologna is extremely fascinating, calm and gorgeous!! If you ever have a free day, make sure to tour through here.

Part of the first University in all of Europe

Statue of Divus Petronius on the front of a Palace 

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Andrea is a current student at Kansas State University studying at Florence University of the Arts (FUA) in Florence, Italy during the Sprig 2015 term.