Palazzo Pepoli, Medieval palace museum in Bologna, Italy
Palazzo Pepoli is a multi-story building along Via Castiglione featuring brick walls and Gothic design elements typical of medieval construction in this part of Italy. Inside, the palace contains galleries arranged across different levels where objects, documents, and interactive displays tell the story of the city.
Construction of the palace began in 1344 under Taddeo Pepoli and remained in family hands for many generations. The city took over the building in 1910 and eventually transformed it into a museum to preserve and share the area's past.
The museum presents how Bologna developed over centuries through objects and displays that show how people lived and worked in the city. Visitors can see and understand the different periods that shaped local society, from ancient times through more recent eras.
The museum is located on Via Castiglione and is generally open most days of the week, though hours may vary on certain days. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since exploring the different floors involves climbing stairs throughout the historic building.
The central courtyard holds a modern glass and steel structure designed by Mario Bellini that brings daylight into the interior spaces below. This contemporary addition creates a striking contrast between the old palace and modern design, and many visitors pass through without fully noticing it.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
