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In the shade of the porticoes - 4th section: Baraccano

Updated on 16 January 2025 From Bologna Welcome

Discover the Portico of Baraccano, where tradition meets modern culture, transforming an ancient religious venue into a centre of artistic creativity.

As you walk through the UNESCO Porticoes of Bologna, this section takes you to the picturesque portico of Baraccano, a corner that exudes with centuries of history and a lively cultural soul


The Portico of Baraccano, part of a historic structure dating back to the 15th century, retains the charm of a past teeming with history and tradition. Originally part of the Baraccano Monastery, this portico runs alongside the current cloister, which once housed the Conservatorio delle Putte, an institute for young orphans or girls from destitute families. Today, the portico continues to combine spirituality and urban life: it is now an ideal setting for events and activities that bring to life the theatre and square in the foreground, enhancing the dialogue between tradition and modern culture.

At an architectural level, the Portico of Baraccano stands apart for its stone columns and low arches, which create an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Different from the more monumental porticoes in the historic centre, it has a large loggia dating back to the Bentivoglio era, with stone columns adorned with elegant discs carved on the upright. This architectural detail adds a touch of refinement to a structure that is characterised by its almost domestic scale. The sleek lines blend harmoniously with the current activities in the area, which inspires a growing social life and cultural participation.


Today, the Portico of Baraccano together with its cloister is one of the city's liveliest cultural hotspots. Shows, concerts and exhibitions find a unique setting under the arches and in the adjacent cloister which, during the summer months extends outdoors, transforming this sober and almost austere area into a delightful performance arena, lending itself perfectly to events that attract a young and dynamic audience. The fusion of historical architecture and artistic modernity makes this space an exceptional venue for events, creating a unique cultural experience in the heart of the city.

Did you know that the name "Baraccano" comes from an ancient gate of the medieval walls of Bologna? It was part of the city's defensive system, and formed a major entrance to the heart of the city. The name, probably deriving from a covered structure such as a canopy or hut, reflected the function of the gate as a bulwark and strategic point for the passage of people and goods. Although the gate was dismantled in the nineteenth century during the urban refurbishings, the term "Baraccano" provides evidence on a past that still lives today in the stones of the portico and the theatre, inextricably linking the history of this location to the urban fabric of the city.

"In the shade of the porticoes" is the column that explores the twelve Porticoes of Bologna, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. In addition to offering insights into their history and architecture, the column also tells of the daily life of those who work, travel and live under those porticoes every day.

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