AW23: Join us in Bologna - part 1/2

AW23: Join us in Bologna - part 1/2

To document our autumn and winter collection, we travelled to Bologna in northern Italy. La Dotta - "the learned one" - because the city proudly houses the world's oldest university. La Grassa - "the fat one" - as one of Italy's very best culinary cities. And La Rossa - "the red" - referring to the terracotta-coloured buildings you see everywhere in Bologna (and yes, a little bit of the city's communist past...)

Bologna, Italy

Bologna is located in the centre of northern Italy in the Emilia Romagna region. In many ways, Bologna is an old city with an authentic Italian feel with a robust charm. Exciting architecture, historical moments and colourful arcades, but the city is also buzzing with life, especially from the city's young students.

5 places to see in Bologna

1. Piazza Maggiore – the heart of the city

The centre of Bologna is one of the city's many squares, Piazza Maggiore. The square is surrounded by historic buildings such as the city hall and the Basilica of San Petronio, as well as the Fontana del Nettuno, the city's famous fountain with the sea god Neptune.

2. Via Clavature

While you're in the heart of the city, we recommend exploring the smaller streets in the area. Here you'll find a selection of food stalls and grocery stores with high-quality local food. Bologna is said to be the origin of tortellini, grana padano and prosciutto bruschetta, but don't let that stop you from trying all the other culinary delights that Bologna has to offer.

3. The world's oldest university

Once you've filled your shopping bags with the best Italian groceries, it's time to see the pride of the city: the Università di Bologna. Founded in 1088, it is the oldest continuously operating university in Europe and one of the oldest universities in the world. To find the university, follow the beautiful arcade along the San Petronio church, which also takes you past the Teatro Comunale. The main building of the university is a Renaissance palace and an architectural experience like no other.

 4. Le Due Torri - the leaning towers

The two leaning towers are Bologna's landmark and tell a romantic story of two young lovers from rival families. It is said that their love was so strong that it caused the two towers to lean towards each other.

5. Scalinata del Pincio

Bologna is also a city with many green parks, and the Parco delle Montagnola is particularly impressive. Besides providing a change of air in the city centre, you can take a rest on the terrace with panoramic views of the city in the direction of Bologna Centrale. The monumental staircase leading up to the terrace presents another reference to Neptune. The fountain is flanked by reliefs representing Bologna's wisdom and freedom.

Explore the collection here.