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Museum · Bolonha, Emília-Romanha
Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
The city's main painting museum, with Emilian painting from the 13th to the 18th century. Highlights: the Ecstasy of Saint Cecilia by Rafael, and works by the Carracci and Guido Reni.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
The Pinacoteca Nazionale occupies the former Jesuit novitiate on Via delle Belle Arti, in the same building as the Accademia di Belle Arti. The collection originated from works removed from churches and closed convents at the end of the 18th century and focuses on painting made in Bologna and Emilia.
The first rooms display Bolognese Gothic painters of the 13th and 14th centuries, with gilded-panel altarpieces. They are followed by Renaissance masters such as Francesco Francia, and works by outside artists who worked for the city, like Perugino and Parmigianino.
The best-known piece is the Ecstasy of Saint Cecilia, painted by Raphael between 1514 and 1516 for the church of San Giovanni in Monte. From the late 16th century the Bolognese school grew in prominence with Ludovico, Agostino and Annibale Carracci, and later with Guido Reni, Domenichino and Guercino; each has rooms in the museum.
The museum is in the university quarter, full of students, cafés and bookshops. Via Zamboni, which leads to it, passes the palaces that now house university faculties.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1h30 to 2 hours for the complete visit.
Best time
Open Tuesday to Sunday; check opening times before you go. Mornings on weekdays tend to be less crowded.
How to get there
It is on Via delle Belle Arti, in the university district, about a 15-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore along Via Zamboni. From Bologna Centrale station it is about a 15-minute walk.
Tip
Go straight to Raphael's room if time is short, then walk through the Carracci rooms and Guido Reni's. Large bags should be left in the cloakroom/left-luggage.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna
What is the most famous work in the Pinacoteca?
The Ecstasy of Saint Cecilia by Raphael, painted between 1514 and 1516. The rooms of the Carracci and Guido Reni also deserve attention.
Do I need to reserve?
Generally no, but check before you go, especially on holidays and when there is a temporary exhibition.
On what day is the museum closed?
It usually closes on Mondays. Check the hours on the official website before your visit.