Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna (National Gallery)

Gallery in Bologna

Situated just a short distance from the iconic Two Towers, the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna, also known as the National Gallery of Bologna, is housed within the former Jesuit novitiate of St. Ignatius, a magnificent 17th-century building. Since its opening to the public in 1885, the gallery has undergone a complete renovation in 1997, transforming it into one of the most contemporary and significant National Galleries in Italy.

The gallery’s esteemed collection, documented in its initial catalog dating back to 1827, boasts an impressive array of artworks from renowned Italian artists of the Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque periods. Visitors can marvel at masterpieces by the likes of Raphael, Perugino, Tintoretto, Titian, the Carracci family, Guercino, and Reni. These works showcase the richness and diversity of artistic expression during these transformative eras.

In addition to its permanent collection, the National Gallery of Bologna frequently hosts compelling temporary exhibitions, offering visitors a chance to explore various themes and artistic movements. The gallery is also a hub for educational activities, seminars, and conventions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the arts.

It’s worth noting that the palace that houses the gallery serves as more than just an exhibition space. It is also home to the Academy of Fine Arts and the Superintendence for Historic, Artistic, and Ethno-Anthropological Heritage. This unique combination of institutions allows for the comprehensive display, preservation, and scholarly study of Bologna’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna (National Gallery) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bologna!

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