Bologna, Italy
About the city of Bologna:
Perhaps best known as the home of Saint Catherine of Bologna, the city also contains the Shrine of Saint Dominic (founder of the Dominican Order) as well as that of Blessed Immelda Lambertini.
Bologna is one of Italy’s most interesting cities. It is a vibrant university town, as well as architecturally beautiful. There are almost 25 miles (40 km) of sidewalks, covered by porticos that make it a walker’s paradise, even if it is raining. You can enjoy the city regardless of the weather. If you happen to be here during Ascension week, the Byzantine statue of the Madonna and Child are carried along the porticos to the cathedral.
The University is one of the oldest in Europe, dating from the 11th Century with such famous students as Dante, Boccaccio and others. Today the university still draws students from around the world, and there is also a branch of Johns Hopkins University from the U.S. located here as well.
On organized tours it is sometimes by-passed in favor of such cities as Florence and Milan, which makes it less touristy and more interesting for those who do visit here. It is considered by some to be the home of the best cuisine in Italy and we cannot disagree. If at all possible we encourage you to include Bologna in your trip to Italy.
Perhaps if you are on an organized tour stopping in Milan, and have a free afternoon, you could include it in a half-day excursion by train (see below).
Catholic Shrines & places of interest in Bologna:
Chiesa di San Sigismondo (Shrine of Blessed Imelda Lambertini)
Santuario del Corpus Domini (Shrine of Saint Catherine of Bologna)
Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca (Saint Dominic)
Traveling to Bologna:
There is frequent train service to Bologna from Rome (2 1/2 hours), Milan (1 hour) and Ancona (2 hours). Bologna also has an international airport served by several European airlines.
Get train & bus schedules, flights, see fares & buy tickets here.
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I wonder can anyone help me. My husband and I wish to renew our wedding vows in Bologna in April. Our son is studying there until July. Can anyone recommend a church where mass is said in English & we could renew our vows here. Thank you.
Since your son is studying there, I suggest he contact the local diocese. They may be able to help find an English language Mass in Bologna. Also, the Basilica San Petronio may have an English Mass. Here is their contact information:
Tel: 346 5768400 / 051 231415 email: info@basilicadisanpetronio.org
What are the mass times in September for San Sigismondo church bologna
Unfortunately, the only contact we have for them is the phone number shown on our website.