The building was formed by the amalgamation of several pre-existing medieval houses and towers, including the residence of the jurist Accursius.
The facade features a prominent bronze statue of Pope Gregory XIII, a native of Bologna, added in 1580.
The Sala Urbana contains an extensive collection of 17th-century coats of arms representing the papal legates and governors of the city.
The interior includes a ceremonial grand staircase designed by Bramante, which was built to allow for horse access to the upper levels.
The Clock Tower mechanism, originally installed in the 15th century, was one of the first public clocks in the city.
The building houses the Museo Morandi, dedicated to the work of the influential Italian painter and printmaker Giorgio Morandi.
The complex includes the Cappella Farnese, a grand room once used for papal coronations.
The building reflects the transition from medieval fortress-like architecture to the Renaissance style of civic administration.
Palazzo d'Accursio, also known as Palazzo Comunale, serves as the historical seat of Bologna's municipal government and houses the Collezioni Comunali d'Arte. The complex is a layered architectural ensemble reflecting construction phases from the 13th to the 15th centuries. It features the Sala del Consiglio Comunale, which remains an active political meeting space. The building houses a significant collection of paintings, furniture, and decorative arts spanning from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. Visitors can access the Sala Borsa library integrated within the lower levels. The architecture incorporates the 15th-century Clock Tower, which provides an elevated view over Piazza Maggiore. The interior preserves original frescoes, including works by Prospero Fontana. It functions simultaneously as a civic office building and a public museum space.
The elevated view of Piazza Maggiore from the loggia or the Clock Tower terrace.
Check the upper floors for access to the panoramic views from the Clock Tower terrace.
Visit the Sala Borsa on the ground floor to see the transparent glass floor revealing Roman archaeological excavations.
Check the local municipal website for temporary exhibition closures before visiting, as some halls occasionally close for government functions.
Do not overlook the Sala Borsa library area on the ground floor, which is free to enter and historically significant.
Museum sections may be closed on specific weekdays, typically Mondays, though government offices operate on standard work weeks.
Dress modestly as this is a functional government building; maintain quiet volumes in the museum galleries.
