The square lights up - The hidden drawings of an unfinished facade

La Piazza si Riaccende (The square lights up) returns again to Piazza Maggiore from 18 to 20 September 2026 with a new special project by Bologna Festival. For three evenings, the unfinished façade of the Basilica of San Petronio comes to life through a spectacular video mapping created by Luca Agnani Studio, showcasing the major designs that were never realised for the basilica's marble façade, from the visions of Andrea Palladio and Terribilia to twentieth-century proposals and Mario Cucinella's contemporary "green" tribute.

The opening evening takes place on Friday 18 September at 9:00 pm, featuring a historical and artistic introduction by Jacopo Veneziani and music by Respighi, Rossini and Donizetti, performed by Claudia Ceraulo, Giulia Alletto, Bryan Sala and Pietro Beltrani. On Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September, the video mapping will be repeated at 9:00 pm, 10:00 pm and 11:00 pm, accompanied by a recorded soundtrack featuring Rossini's William Tell Overture.

Admission is free. Reserved seating for the opening performance on 18 September is available to supporters of the crowdfunding campaign for "Ricomincio da Me", a Progetto Itaca initiative dedicated to supporting young people experiencing mental health challenges. The projections on 19 and 20 September are standing events with no seating provided.