Overview
The first seat of the government in Bologna
In the central Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, the Palazzo del Podestà stands out among a group of medieval buildings. The first seat of the local government, it is also called Palazzo Vecchio (the Old Palace), because it was built between 1201 and 1203 before the other buildings in the complex, including Palazzo Re Enzo and Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo.
All that remains of the original building is part of the façade at the back and the majestic Torre dell’Arengo tower, which stands on the arches of the Voltone del Podestà open arcade and hosts the “Campanazzo” (big bell), which tolls on special occasions.
The Palazzo del Podestà has undergone numerous renovations, covering the 13th-century columns with massive pillars and thousands of sculpted tiles. The interior spaces reflect the building’s importance: the Salone del Podestà, originally a courtroom, was transformed into a public theatre, then into a space for ball games. Today, it welcomes visitors amid marvellous frescoes.
The Voltone del Podestà is known for the peculiar “wireless telephone” effect, which allows people in opposite corners of the structure to talk to each other.
