Palazzo Communale

The Palazzo Communale, which is also called the Palazzo Gotico, is an interesting structure. It began as the family home of the famed annotator of Roman law until the municipality acquired ownership of the property in 1293. The buildings structure was enlarged by the incorporation of two other buildings: the Palazzo del Senato and the Palazzo del Cardinale Legato. It later became the residence of the papal legate or emissary of the pope.

Modifications and changes were made in the mid 15th century. The plan was to create a fortress, one with a moat and drawbridge. Instead, by 1425, the facade had a distinctly gothic look to it as designed by Fioravante Fioravanti. This is when the palazzo acquired its marble and terracotta mullioned windows.

The 16th century brought the creation of the main staircase. This staircase is wider than most people are used to seeing. Designed by Bramante, it was designed so that the towns officials, seated on horseback could ascend triumphantly, as it were.

Beside the main portal sculpted in 1550 by Alessi, a statue of Pope Gregory XIII, who was born in Bologna and who commissioned the Gregorian calendar can be found. Menganti created the statue in 1580. During the Napoleonic wars when all symbols of Papal presence were being destroyed, the statue was temporarily turned into San Petronio to avoid it being demolished during the sieges. Afterwards, the statue was returned to its original state. A statue of the Madonna and a child can be found directly above that of the Pope’s.

Today the palazzo is the seat of the town government and is the home of the city president. It also hosts two museums: the Municipal Arts collection, located in the Sala Urbana, and the Museum of Giorgio Morandi (Museo di Giorgio Morandi).

The City Collection, as the Municipal Arts collection is also called, includes works of artists from Bologna. Among these are works of Canova, Gentileschi, Hayez, Signorelli, Tintoretto. The display includes silverware, glassware, lace and much more. Most of the paintings are from the 14th to the 19th century.

Giorgio Morandi was a famous painter from Bologna. His works are of simple subjects such as flowers yet his watercolours and paintings have an intensity and perception that make them unique. His studio has been reconstructed for viewing here.

Among the many artworks are two red marble eagles. Michaelangelo is said to have crafted the one on the left. Alfonso Lombardi created the statue of Hercules, after whom the Salad’Ercole is named, in 1518. Another piece of art worth noting is the Madonna of the Earthquake fresco created in 1505 by Francia.

Visits to the Palazzo Communale are by request only. The museums are normally closed on Monday. It is best to call ahead of time to know when it is best to visit.