Piazza della Mercanzia, Medieval square in central Bologna, Italy
Piazza della Mercanzia is an irregularly shaped square in central Bologna featuring Gothic buildings and a prominent palazzo with marble and columned details on its facade. The space is framed by arcades and connects to narrow streets radiating outward in multiple directions.
The square was established in 1391 as a merchant forum with its own tribunal to settle commercial disputes. It remained a key business hub throughout Bologna's development over the following centuries.
The square takes its name from a merchant guild that once governed trade and regulated commerce in the city. This commercial purpose still shapes how people move through and use the space today.
The square sits within walking distance of the Two Towers and is easily reached from several narrow streets nearby. There are plenty of places to sit and it makes a good starting point for walks through the historic city.
A marble balcony on the palazzo facade was once used for public announcements after bells summoned citizens to gather. Important merchant tribunal decisions were declared from this vantage point to the assembled crowd.
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