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From the Bologna World / Places
Palazzo del Podestà
Bologna's early civic palace borders Piazza Maggiore, but its most playful feature is underneath: the Voltone passage. The public arcade makes a brief, worthwhile stop even when the upper rooms are unavailable.
Enter the Voltone beneath the palace and test its acoustic trick by speaking from opposite corners. Above it, the Torre dell'Arengo recalls how the commune called citizens together. The building helps explain the cluster of government palaces around Piazza Maggiore without requiring an interior exhibition.
What to look for
The Voltone passage crosses below the palace.
Voices can carry between opposite corners under its vault.
The Torre dell'Arengo rises above the civic buildings.
Useful to know
Try the acoustic effect with someone at the opposite corner of the Voltone.
See the passage while moving between Piazza Maggiore, Piazza del Nettuno and Via Rizzoli.
Check current exhibitions if you specifically want the upper rooms.
Your next visit
Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.
Outdoor visit · 30–45 min
World planning estimate; admission, opening, visit duration and access need checking.
