Bologna captured worldwide attention with the foundation of the University of Bologna in 1088. It was an important centre of European intellectual life during the medieval time, attracting scholars from all over Europe. Nowadays the University of Bologna is the oldest existing university in the Western world, with over 100.000 students.
Bolognese character is expressed in the red color of its buildings and the long porticoes which are everywhere (almost 40 km). The center of Bologna is around the magnificent twin piazzas - Maggiore and Nettuno. The main tourist attractions and historical monuments, including the two famous leaning towers, are within walking distance from them. Piazza Maggiore is one of the main gathering places of the city, used for meetings, concerts, evening strolling or demonstrations.
This beautiful old-aged city is known as 'Red Bologna' not just for the ochre colouring of the medieval buildings that give Bologna its unique style. Socialism and communism is a major feature of Bolognese life since partisan resistance in WWII. Now you won’t be surprised to find out that Bologna was the first Italian city that has elected a communist council.
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