We visited two very different but both excellent libraries in Bologna. First, we went to the main public library, Salaborsa.
Main area, with chairs set up for what seemed to be a public talk about film. The areas behind the arches in the upper floors hold study tables, book stacks, and quiet rooms. The main area is very lively! Middle floor where there are wraparound chair/desks of very different but comfortable design.The glass block in the floor is, in many places, transparent enough to see through to archaeological remains below. You can go into the crypt in the basement but that part of the building was closing right when we arrived. Next time!
Today, our last day, we visited a real highlight in Bologna, the Archiginnasio Palace and Anatomical Theatre (and library).
The open area before even reaching the entrance was impressive enough to warrant a visitThe anatomical theatre (called a theatre because of its amphitheater shape) was the anatomy classroom for the university of Bologna.
The central feature is the marble table that would hold the human or animal body. On the walls and ceiling are sculptures to gods and physicians, and there are tributes to popes and shields for regions and families. The theatre was first built in 1595 at another location, but this one was finalized as it looks now in this spot in 1736. However, the US bombed this spot in 1944, and what we see today is an excellent rebuild from pieces picked out of the rubble. more here!
An interesting group is depicted at one end, two ‘muscle men’ hold a platform with feminine form and a cherub. Tte cherub is handing the woman what looks like a flower but is a femur.
We were satisfied with the visit just for the entry courtyard, then we were satisfied after seeing the anatomy room. But there was more! The library was down this ‘hallway’ (for lack of a better word!)
Very grand vaulted hallway leading to the library main roomMain room of the library. There was a tour in Italian going on. This part of the stacks was closed to tourists but we could look, in aweMain roomStairs out of the building – another amazing part of the building!
We highly recommend a visit to Bologna’s libraries!
2 Comments on “Bologna: libraries”
That is such an elaborately designed library!
I like those chairs with a small desk attached. They look more comfortable than the ones we used in high school.
They are really comfortable! And seem to use a lot less material than regular chairs and desks!
That is such an elaborately designed library!
I like those chairs with a small desk attached. They look more comfortable than the ones we used in high school.
They are really comfortable! And seem to use a lot less material than regular chairs and desks!