Falansterio, Historic residential building in Via Saragozza, Bologna, Italy
The Falansterio is a residential complex in Bologna consisting of three connected building sections stretched along Via Saragozza with varying window patterns throughout. The structure surrounds an internal courtyard, with portico arches running along the street facade that reflect 19th-century architectural styles.
The complex was designed between 1861 and 1865 by chief engineer Coriolano Monti as part of Via Saragozza's expansion during the 1800s. It emerged during a period when Bologna was modernizing and experimenting with new approaches to housing and urban development.
The name comes from Charles Fourier's ideas about communal living, where residents would share everyday facilities and spaces within the same structure.
The building sits on a main street in Bologna's historic center and is easy to reach on foot from nearby squares and monuments. Visit during the day to see the facade details and inner courtyard clearly from the street level.
The building was among the first large-scale housing projects specifically designed to address housing shortages in a densely built city. Its design was based on innovative concepts that attempted to house hundreds of families efficiently within a connected space.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
