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.