Porta Galliera, Bologna
Porta Galliera is a part of the historic gate system of Bologna. At the time they were one of the most important elements of the defense system of the city. And now they are simply the most beautiful and largest of those that survived through time. The gate is the first landmark that many tourists encounter, as the railway and bus stations are located close to it.
History of Porta Galliera
The city gate in the northern part of Bologna was built in the late 13th century. Back then they were wooden, just like most of the fortifications. The name of the gate derives from of the Galliera city to which the road from this gate led. In 1330, a fortress was built by Cardinal Bertrand Puget for Pope John XXII not far from here. The gate was reconstructed and turned into a stone construction. However, in 1334 the castle was destroyed by the rioters. By 1511, the fortress and the gate were destroyed and rebuilt 4 more times. During 1660–1663 the gate was rebuilt for the last time.
Ruins are all the is left from the castle. In the 20th century, fortifications lost their initial purpose. And now, restored in 2007–2009, Porta Galliera has only significant historical and decorative value.
Architectural design
The gate is a square brick construction with 3 levels. Rows of small windows can be found on the sides. They look like a combination of a small fortress and beautiful palace windows. The facade of the building has a huge arched opening supported by round marble columns. Square white marble columns are also placed at the corners of the construction. The above the arch is decorated with bas-reliefs made of white marble as well. They depict papal and municipal coats of arms. Right above the coat of arms, there is a papal tiara. Above the corners of the front side, you can see decorations that look like a small pyramid of columns. It is crowned with a stylized star.
How to get
The gate is located in the north of the historic center of Bologna, on Piazza XX Settembre. The Park of Montagnola can be found nearby, the monument to the Fallen is at its entrance. There is a bus station not far from here. You can catch buses № 33, 35, 39, 61, 81, 87, 91, 181, 187 and 188 there.