Church of San Mattia, Bologna, Former church and arts centre in via Sant'Isaia, Bologna, Italy.
San Mattia is a building with Renaissance features located on via Sant'Isaia in Bologna, now serving as an arts center and museum. The interior contains paintings and sculptures from the 16th century across multiple floors used for exhibitions and cultural events.
The original complex outside Porta Saragozza was destroyed in 1537, leading to construction at the current location. After French occupation in 1799, the building changed hands several times before becoming an arts center.
The church served the neighborhood as a gathering place for religious processions and celebrations throughout the year. Today you can sense this communal role in how the interior spaces are arranged and used.
The building spans multiple floors with exhibition spaces and facilities hosting cultural events throughout the year. Visitors should allow time to explore the different levels and check what exhibitions are currently on display.
The building underwent a remarkable transformation from a religious sanctuary to a school and warehouse before becoming an arts center. This layered history is visible in the varied architecture and room divisions that reflect different periods and purposes.
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