The Hidden Delights of Bologna

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The elegance of the city continues inside

Bologna, known as the City of Porticos, is also renowned for its towers, numerous revered singers and the oldest university in continuous operation in the world. Steeped in history, yet vibrant and buzzing, the city has retained its timeless elegance. Although occupied first by the Etruscans, then by the Gauls, followed by the Romans, Bologna has somehow managed to establish itself as a free commune over the centuries, starting in the Middle Ages and, during the Second World War, becoming the capital of the resistance movement.

And it is in this fascinating and elegant city where time seems to have stood still, beneath those world-famous porticos that run for 40 km, that we have had the chance to bring an elegant old residence back to life.

To set the scene and atmosphere, we chose the gleaming white of Bianco Carrara and the distinctive greige of Silk Georgette®. The two stones run throughout the home and bring a sense of airiness and refinement that is absolutely in keeping with the city outside.

Simply sitting down at the Taula dining table in Crema d’Orcia to enjoy the first coffee of the day is a moment to savour the discreet elegance that infuses the entire home, with every accessory and piece of furniture contributing to the warm, inviting atmosphere. The soothing colours set the tone for every room and space, from the stunning kitchen complete with island and striking Spaghetti tapware with matching knobs to the bathroom featuring a walk-in shower with its smoked glass panel and Filo shower tray in Pietra d’Avola. Every element is designed to create a sense of spaciousness and to work with each other, such as the wall-mounted Balnea basin in Silk Georgette®, set against a wall in the same stone.

After serenely easing into the day, it’s time to step outside and enjoy the beautiful sights Bologna has to offer. It’s just a short stroll from the porticos to Piazza Nettuno, and within five minutes you can find yourself admiring the extraordinary power of Neptune, God of the Sea. This statue in bronze by the famous sculptor Giambologna is the much-loved symbol of Bologna.

The piazza (or square) is also home to the Salaborsa Library, a prestigious building housed in what was once the old stock exchange. This is a must-visit place, not only for its vast collection of books, magazines and newspapers but for its incredible ceilings. Then, it’s just a few minutes to reach the home of Lucio Dalla, the city’s most famous singer. Now a museum, it is the perfect spot to rest and rejuvenate the soul before finishing the day’s exploration at the Mercato di Mezzo, a typical covered food market where you can indulge in a delicious dish of lasagne or tortellini.

After a busy but inspiring day, it‘s time to return home and relax, and what better than a long soak in the Balnea bathtub. The pale warm tones of Crema d’Orcia combine with the Silk Georgette® Spaghetti-textured walls and floor in slabs of Bianco Carrara marble. This soothing sanctuary is completed by the rounded forms of the freestanding Spaghetti taps and Mirari wall mirror, creating an atmosphere that invites you to lie back and contemplate the beauty of the city beyond.