Overview
Collection of paintings by Emilia-Romagna’s masters of painting
In the late 18th century, the arrival of Napoleon’s troops in Bologna led to the closure of many religious institutions. Their numerous works of art were later donated to the Accademia Clementina, which had to look for a larger venue. In 1808, the National Art Gallery of Bologna, then picture gallery of the Accademia di Belle Arti, was established in the former Sant’Ignazio complex.
Thirty exhibition rooms, divided by periods and artistic trends, display examples of Emilian painting from the 13th to the 18th century alongside works by non-Bolognese artists, such as Giotto, with his marvellous Polyptych, Giorgio Vasari, Raphael and Tintoretto. It is impossible to choose the most beautiful room, as each holds works of priceless value and cultural and historical interest.
The upper floor houses the Cabinet of Drawings and Prints, where thousands of unique pieces can be viewed.
Via delle Belle Arti, 56, 40126 Bologna BO, Italia
