The Archiginnasio is one of the most important palaces in Bologna. Located in the heart of the historic city centre, it has been the home of the Municipal Library since 1838.
The Palace was commissioned by Cardinal Borromeo and was built between 1562 and 1563 to a project by architect Antonio Morandi known as Terribilia as the seat of the University (until 1803). It was heavily damaged by bombing in 1944 and was later rebuilt.
Two large staircases lead to the upper floor featuring two classrooms (closed to the public) and two lecture halls, one for the “Artisti” (now a reading room) and one for the “Legisti” (known as Stabat Mater Hall). The Anatomical Theatre is also well known and was built in carved wood by Antonio Levante in 1637 to teach anatomy. The famous “Spellati” (Skinned Men) statues by Ercole Lelli are on display inside.
Map
Archiginnasio
Piazza Galvani 1
40124 Bologna
Telephone: +39 051 276811
Site/minisite/other: http://www.archiginnasio.it/
Entrance
| Admission ticket to Anatomical Theatre and Stabat Mater Hall | € 3 |
Free admission: Tourist guides with badge; Journalist with badge; 1 person for each group of 10 people; Classes of secondary schools; 2 people for each school group; Young people up to 18 years; old Disabled people and their helpers; Icom members with valid card; Card Cultura owners
Timetables
| Monday | 10am - 6pm |
| Tuesday | 10am - 6pm |
| Thursday | 10am - 6pm |
| Friday | 10am - 6pm |
| Saturday | 10am - 7pm |
| Sunday and holidays | 10am - 2pm |
AUGUST 2020:
From August 2 to August 23, the library will be open from 10am to 2pm.
The Anatomical Theatre is open with limited access. Payment by card is preferred.
Opening times:
from Monday to Saturday 10am-6pm
Sunday and August 15 (Ferragosto) 10am-2pm
