# Bologna

> city and commune in Emilia-Romagna, Italy

**Wikidata**: [Q1891](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1891)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bologna)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bologna

## Summary
Bologna is a city and commune in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, known for its rich history, cultural significance, and administrative role as the capital of the Metropolitan City of Bologna. It is a major urban center with a population of over 387,000 people and is recognized as a "City of Music" within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

## Key Facts
- **Location**: Bologna is located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, with coordinates 44.493888888889° N, 11.342777777778° E.
- **Population**: As of 2023, the population of Bologna is 387,971.
- **Area**: The city covers an area of 140.86 square kilometers.
- **Elevation**: Bologna is situated at an elevation of 54 meters above sea level.
- **Timezone**: The city operates on UTC+01:00 (standard time) and UTC+02:00 (daylight saving time).
- **Postal Codes**: Bologna has multiple postal codes, including 40121, 40122, 40123, 40124, 40125, 40126, 40127, 40128, 40129, 40131, 40132, 40133, 40134, 40135, 40136, 40137, 40138, 40139, and 40141.
- **Nicknames**: Bologna is known by several nicknames, including "La dotta" (the learned), "La rossa" (the red), and "La grassa" (the fat).
- **Historical Affiliations**: Bologna has been part of various political entities, including the Holy Roman Empire, Papal States, Kingdom of Sardinia, and Italy (since 1861).
- **Capital Status**: Bologna is the capital of the Metropolitan City of Bologna and was previously the capital of the Province of Bologna until 2014.
- **Mayor**: The current mayor of Bologna is Matteo Lepore, who took office on October 11, 2021.
- **Twin Cities**: Bologna is twinned with several cities, including Leipzig (since 1962), Zagreb (since 1963/1984), Bari (since 2009), Valencia (since 1980), St. Louis (since 1987), Kharkiv (since 1966), Coventry (since 1984), Hamamatsu (since 2014), and Meknes (since 2020).
- **UNESCO Recognition**: Bologna was designated as a "City of Music" by UNESCO in 2006.
- **European Capital of Culture**: Bologna was named the European Capital of Culture in 2000.
- **Patron Saints**: The patron saints of Bologna are Catherine of Bologna and Petronius of Bologna.
- **Demonyms**: Residents of Bologna are known by various demonyms, including Bolonais, Bolonjano, Bolognese, Bolognian, and others in different languages.
- **Website**: The official website of Bologna is [www.comune.bologna.it](https://www.comune.bologna.it).
- **Flag and Coat of Arms**: Bologna has its own flag and coat of arms, which are symbols of the city's identity.
- **Seismic Classification**: Bologna is classified as a seismic zone 3, indicating a moderate risk of earthquakes.
- **Open Data Portal**: Bologna has an open data portal that provides access to various datasets and information about the city.

## FAQs

**What is the population of Bologna?**
As of 2023, the population of Bologna is 387,971. The city has seen a steady population growth over the years, with previous counts of 392,564 in 2022, 389,261 in 2018, and 388,367 in 2017.

**What are the nicknames of Bologna?**
Bologna is known by several nicknames, including "La dotta" (the learned), "La rossa" (the red), and "La grassa" (the fat). These nicknames reflect the city's rich cultural, political, and culinary heritage.

**What is the historical significance of Bologna?**
Bologna has a long and complex history, having been part of various political entities such as the Holy Roman Empire, Papal States, and Kingdom of Sardinia. It became part of Italy in 1861 and has since been a significant cultural and administrative center.

**What are the twin cities of Bologna?**
Bologna is twinned with several cities around the world, including Leipzig (Germany), Zagreb (Croatia), Bari (Italy), Valencia (Spain), St. Louis (USA), Kharkiv (Ukraine), Coventry (UK), Hamamatsu (Japan), and Meknes (Morocco). These twinning agreements foster cultural and economic exchanges.

**What is the UNESCO recognition of Bologna?**
Bologna was designated as a "City of Music" by UNESCO in 2006, recognizing its rich musical heritage and contributions to the arts. Additionally, Bologna was named the European Capital of Culture in 2000.

**What are the patron saints of Bologna?**
The patron saints of Bologna are Catherine of Bologna and Petronius of Bologna. These saints are revered in the city and are part of its religious and cultural traditions.

**What is the official website of Bologna?**
The official website of Bologna is [www.comune.bologna.it](https://www.comune.bologna.it). This website provides information about the city's services, events, and administrative functions.

**What is the seismic classification of Bologna?**
Bologna is classified as a seismic zone 3, indicating a moderate risk of earthquakes. This classification is based on the city's geological and seismic activity.

**What is the open data portal of Bologna?**
Bologna has an open data portal that provides access to various datasets and information about the city. This portal is a valuable resource for researchers, developers, and the general public.

## Why It Matters
Bologna is a city of significant historical, cultural, and administrative importance in Italy. Its rich history, dating back to ancient times, has shaped its unique identity and contributed to its status as a major urban center. Bologna's recognition as a "City of Music" by UNESCO highlights its contributions to the arts and its vibrant cultural scene. The city's twinning agreements with other cities around the world foster international cooperation and cultural exchange. Additionally, Bologna's open data portal and commitment to transparency and innovation make it a model for modern urban governance. The city's nicknames, "La dotta," "La rossa," and "La grassa," reflect its intellectual, political, and culinary heritage, making it a multifaceted and dynamic city that continues to evolve and thrive.

## Notable For
- **UNESCO City of Music**: Bologna was designated as a "City of Music" by UNESCO in 2006, recognizing its rich musical heritage and contributions to the arts.
- **European Capital of Culture**: Bologna was named the European Capital of Culture in 2000, highlighting its cultural significance and vibrant arts scene.
- **Historical Significance**: Bologna has a long and complex history, having been part of various political entities such as the Holy Roman Empire, Papal States, and Kingdom of Sardinia.
- **Twin Cities**: Bologna is twinned with several cities around the world, fostering cultural and economic exchanges.
- **Open Data Portal**: Bologna has an open data portal that provides access to various datasets and information about the city, promoting transparency and innovation.
- **Nicknames**: Bologna is known by several nicknames, including "La dotta" (the learned), "La rossa" (the red), and "La grassa" (the fat), reflecting its rich cultural, political, and culinary heritage.
- **Patron Saints**: The patron saints of Bologna are Catherine of Bologna and Petronius of Bologna, who are revered in the city and are part of its religious and cultural traditions.
- **Seismic Classification**: Bologna is classified as a seismic zone 3, indicating a moderate risk of earthquakes, which is important for urban planning and safety measures.

## Body

### Geography and Demographics
Bologna is located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, with coordinates 44.493888888889° N, 11.342777777778° E. The city covers an area of 140.86 square kilometers and is situated at an elevation of 54 meters above sea level. As of 2023, the population of Bologna is 387,971, with a steady growth observed over the years. The city has multiple postal codes, including 40121, 40122, 40123, 40124, 40125, 40126, 40127, 40128, 40129, 40131, 40132, 40133, 40134, 40135, 40136, 40137, 40138, 40139, and 40141.

### Historical Background
Bologna has a rich and complex history, having been part of various political entities. It was part of the Holy Roman Empire until 1506, followed by the Papal States until 1796. The city was also part of the Kingdom of Sardinia from 1860 to 1861, after which it became part of Italy. Bologna has been the capital of the Province of Bologna until 2014 and is currently the capital of the Metropolitan City of Bologna. The city's historical significance is reflected in its architecture, culture, and traditions.

### Cultural Significance
Bologna is known by several nicknames, including "La dotta" (the learned), "La rossa" (the red), and "La grassa" (the fat). These nicknames reflect the city's rich cultural, political, and culinary heritage. Bologna was designated as a "City of Music" by UNESCO in 2006, recognizing its rich musical heritage and contributions to the arts. Additionally, Bologna was named the European Capital of Culture in 2000, highlighting its cultural significance and vibrant arts scene.

### Administrative and Political Structure
The current mayor of Bologna is Matteo Lepore, who took office on October 11, 2021. The city is governed by the Bologna City Council, which is the legislative body responsible for local governance. Bologna is also a member of the Creative Cities Network, with a specific focus on music, as recognized by UNESCO.

### Twin Cities and International Relations
Bologna is twinned with several cities around the world, including Leipzig (Germany), Zagreb (Croatia), Bari (Italy), Valencia (Spain), St. Louis (USA), Kharkiv (Ukraine), Coventry (UK), Hamamatsu (Japan), and Meknes (Morocco). These twinning agreements foster cultural and economic exchanges, promoting international cooperation and understanding.

### Religious and Cultural Traditions
The patron saints of Bologna are Catherine of Bologna and Petronius of Bologna. These saints are revered in the city and are part of its religious and cultural traditions. The city's flag and coat of arms are symbols of its identity and heritage.

### Innovation and Transparency
Bologna has an open data portal that provides access to various datasets and information about the city. This portal is a valuable resource for researchers, developers, and the general public, promoting transparency and innovation in urban governance.

### Seismic Classification and Safety
Bologna is classified as a seismic zone 3, indicating a moderate risk of earthquakes. This classification is important for urban planning and safety measures, ensuring that the city is prepared for potential seismic activity.

### Notable Landmarks and Structures
Bologna is home to several notable landmarks and structures, including Palazzo Bonaccorso, Palazzo Sanguinetti, Arcoveggio Stadium, Villa Spada, Garisenda tower, Mercato delle Erbe, Carmen Longo Stadium, Conserva di Valverde, Torre dell'Orologio, Rotonda della Madonna del Monte, and Stadio Renato Dall'Ara. These landmarks reflect the city's rich architectural and cultural heritage.

### Educational and Intellectual Heritage
Bologna is known as "La dotta" (the learned), reflecting its intellectual heritage and contributions to education and scholarship. The city is home to several educational institutions and has a vibrant academic community.

### Culinary Heritage
Bologna is known as "La grassa" (the fat), reflecting its rich culinary heritage and contributions to Italian cuisine. The city is famous for its traditional dishes and culinary traditions, making it a significant center for food and gastronomy.

### Political and Social Heritage
Bologna is known as "La rossa" (the red), reflecting its political and social heritage. The city has a long history of political activism and social movements, contributing to its unique identity and cultural significance.

### Conclusion
Bologna is a city of significant historical, cultural, and administrative importance in Italy. Its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and commitment to innovation and transparency make it a model for modern urban governance. The city's nicknames, "La dotta," "La rossa," and "La grassa," reflect its intellectual, political, and culinary heritage, making it a multifaceted and dynamic city that continues to evolve and thrive.

## References

1. archINFORM
2. [Source](https://www.leipzig.de/buergerservice-und-verwaltung/partnerstaedte/bologna/)
3. [Source](http://www.comune.bari.it/documents/20181/24040509/Accordo+di+Gemellaggio+-+18.11.2009.pdf/77694e97-654b-4ee3-b3ab-c64145d3428f)
4. [Source](http://www.comune.bari.it/documents/20181/24040509/Delib.+n.+71+del+24.7.2008++-++Sindaco++Emiliano.pdf/85ebcd95-f318-4f49-8fab-960f884c93df)
5. [Source](http://www.comune.bari.it/gemellaggi/-/asset_publisher/tfQJLAc084vx/content/00-bologna?inheritRedirect=false&redirect=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.comune.bari.it%2Fgemellaggi%3Fp_p_id%3D101_INSTANCE_tfQJLAc084vx%26p_p_lifecycle%3D0%26p_p_state%3Dnormal%26p_p_mode%3Dview%26p_p_col_id%3Dcolumn-2%26p_p_col_count%3D1)
6. [Source](http://www.comune.bari.it/gemellaggi)
7. [Source](http://www.valencia.es/ayuntamiento/laciudad.nsf/vDocumentosTituloAux/Ciudades%20hermanadas%20con%20Val%C3%A8ncia?opendocument&lang=2&nivel=10)
8. [Source](https://www.valencia.es/cas/la-ciudad/ciudades-hermanadas)
9. [Source](https://worldtradecenter-stl.com/st-louis-sister-cities-program/bologna-italy/)
10. [Source](https://infocity.kharkiv.ua/obshchestvo/goroda-pobratimy-harkova/)
11. [Source](https://www.coventry.gov.uk/info/222/twin_towns_and_cities)
12. [Source](https://www.yabiladi.com/articles/details/102382/maroc-italie-meknes-bologne-scellent-convention.html)
13. [Source](https://www.meknes.ma/langue-ar/actualites/detailsact.aspx?idact=1346)
14. Virtual International Authority File
15. BnF authorities
16. [Numeri civici](https://opendata.comune.bologna.it/explore/dataset/rifter_civici_pt/table/)
17. [Source](https://en.unesco.org/creative-cities/bologna)
18. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
19. MusicBrainz
20. [Source](https://demo.istat.it/bilmens/index02.php?anno=2022&lingua=ita)
21. [Popolazione Residente al 1° Gennaio 2018. Italian National Institute of Statistics](http://demo.istat.it/pop2018/index3.html)
22. [Popolazione Residente al 1° Gennaio 2017. Italian National Institute of Statistics](http://demo.istat.it/pop2017/index3.html)
23. [Source](http://demo.istat.it/bilmens2016gen/index02.html)
24. [Source](http://demo.istat.it/pop2016/dati/comuni.gz)
25. [Source](https://demo.istat.it/?l=it)
26. [Source](https://sjp.pwn.pl/so/bolonczyk;4416503.html)
27. [Source](https://sjp.pwn.pl/szukaj/bolonka.html)
28. [Source](https://www.istat.it/storage/urbes2015/bologna.pdf)
29. [Superficie di Comuni Province e Regioni italiane al 9 ottobre 2011. Italian National Institute of Statistics](https://www.istat.it/it/archivio/156224)
30. Wiki Loves Monuments Italia
31. YSO-Wikidata mapping project
32. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
33. Enciclopedia Treccani
34. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)
35. Dizionario di Storia
36. Name Suggestion Index
37. KBpedia
38. Bibliography of the History of the Czech Lands
39. Provenio
40. Seismic classification in Italy
41. [Source](https://rischi.protezionecivile.gov.it/it/sismico/attivita/classificazione-sismica)
42. Regional Database of the Central Bohemian Research Library in Kladno
43. museum-digital