This past summer, I had the immense privilege of being able to study abroad in Italy for a month. During my time there, I saw many different cities and landmarks, though the highlight of my trip wasn't Rome with its rich history or Venice with its picturesque views, but instead the smaller, relatively unknown (and in my opinion, highly underrated) city of Bologna.
Many travelers will tell you that the food of Italy is to die for, and they're correct. I don't think I had a single bad meal throughout the entire time I was there. However, even among the food-rich culture of Italy, Bologna stands above as a foodie's paradise. After all, this is the city responsible for tortellini pasta, cured meats like prosciutto, mortadella, and salumi, sweet Lambrusco wine, and of course, the savory and hearty tagliatelle al ragù Bolognese.
So, as someone with a great interest in cuisine, I traveled there on my weekend off and took a food tour through the many restaurants and open-air markets that dominate the city, and it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I chatted and haggled with market vendors, enjoyed handmade tortellini after climbing the 498 (!!) steps of the Asinelli Tower, and shared a beer with fellow travelers at the oldest tavern in Bologna (which opened in 1465), among many other memorable moments.
Asinelli Tower (Pro tip: Climb it just before lunch, it really builds an appetite)
I was practically waddling when I left the city due to how full I was, though I felt more connected to Italian culture than I had ever been. My fiancée is of Italian descent and has been to the country once before, though like many travelers, this city wasn't on her radar. I hope to one day return to this hidden gem with her to show her its wonders and pick up where I left off.
Oh, Bologna is fabulous, Brett! Thank you for sharing these beautiful pictures here. My favorite underrated city in Italy is Padova. But for food, Bologna definitely wins over Padova. SUCH GOOD FOOD. Maybe you will want to use this class to learn about Italian storytelling traditions... here are some Italian story collections free online at the Freebookapalooza. Now if only we could magically arrange a class field trip...... But books will have to suffice for this semester. :-)
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