Archiginnasio and Teatro Anatomico

The Palazzo dell'Archiginnasio, at Piazza Galvani 1 in Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, was the main seat of the University of Bologna from 1563 until the nineteenth century, and the university is often cited as the oldest in the Western world. The building sits directly behind the Basilica di San Petronio, a few minutes' walk from Piazza Maggiore. Its arcaded courtyard and staircases are covered from floor to ceiling in thousands of coats of arms and inscriptions left by students and professors across centuries, an unusual mosaic of heraldry. The highlight is the Teatro Anatomico on the upper floor, built in 1637 and carved almost entirely in spruce wood. Rows of tiered benches surround a central marble dissection table, topped by a canopy supported by two skinless wooden figures known as the Spellati, and statues of famous physicians line the walls. The theatre was largely rebuilt after wartime bombing in 1944, but retains its atmosphere. Visits are by ticket and often guided, and take 45 to 60 minutes. Beside the theatre, visitors can also see the Stabat Mater hall, once a lecture room, and the corridors lined with plaques. The courtyard is usually free to enter on weekdays, which makes a pleasant short stop on its own. For photography, the staircases from the courtyard provide good perspective on the heraldic walls, while the theatre interior is intimate and dim. Crowds are lightest on weekday mornings, when groups are fewer. The theatre has limited capacity at any time, so visits may be arranged in timed groups, and tickets can be bought through Bologna Welcome.