Palazzo Pepoli Vecchio

The Palazzo Pepoli Vecchio is home to the Historical Museum of Bologna on Via Castiglione. This museum of Bolognese history is sectioned into different phases, from the Etruscan Felsina to the present Bologna. The museum has a beautiful blue wireframed room with a simulated river.

The Pepoli family owned the palazzo until 1910. It was built by the Pepoli in 1344 with their protection in mind, so it looks like a fortress from the outside; the inside has a regal, palatial look. It was recently refurbished in 2012. All stages like the ancient period, the Medieval period, the Renaissance period and modern history have been well documented by artefacts and retold through multimedia experiences. There’s also a part dedicated to the religious, political and social life of the ancient Bolognese. If you visit, look at the large Renaissance map of Bologna from 1575 and the Forma Urbis Romae, which is a massive map of ancient Rome. There is a theatre inside the room where you can watch 3D historical films. Audio guides (included in the entry fee) are provided to the museum visitors.