Villa Ghigi

"The Villa Ghigi Park has a surface area of ​​almost 28 hectares and extends over the first hills to the south of the city, immediately outside Porta San Mamolo. It alternates cultivated areas with natural areas and offers the possibility of quiet walks and splendid views of the city a short distance as the crow flies from the center. Opened to the public in 1975 and managed by the Villa Ghigi Foundation since 2004, for its variety and good naturalness it represents a representative sample of the Bolognese hilly landscape. The park is not fenced and can only be explored on foot. Some rest areas have been equipped for visitors. The Villa Ghigi Foundation provides maps and illustrative material and periodically offers guided tours linked to the seasonal cycles of vegetation."

"From Piazza Maggiore, walk south along Via San Mamolo until the road you see a gate on your right hand side. The gate marks the entrance to Parco di Villa Ghigi, a large public park along Bologna’s hills. You’ll find some sections planted with vines and other crops, and some wooded areas with plenty of paths to explore. Hike to the very top for wonderful views over the city, especially at sunset. Then, to hike back to the centre, follow Via dell’Osservanza down hill, connecting back to Via San Mamolo. Hiking from Piazza Maggiore to the highest point of Parco di Villa Ghigi takes about an hour! "