Exquisite Elegance and Timeless Charm, I can only be referring to the Grand Hotel Majestic Gia' Baglioni Bologna. Set amongst the cobblestone streets of historic Bologna, the Grand Hotel Majestic exudes an aura of refined luxury and timeless charm. From the moment we stepped through its doors, we were transported to a realm of opulence and sophistication that is simply unparalleled.
First and foremost, we were lovestruck by the hotel's breathtaking architecture and rich heritage. The former palazzo was a seminary built in the 18th century, the hotel emanates an atmosphere of enduring elegance in every nook and cranny. From its majestic façade adorned with intricate detailing to its lavishly appointed interiors, every inch of this hotel is steeped in history and grandeur.
Upon arrival, we were greeted with the utmost warmth and hospitality by the attentive staff, who spared no effort in ensuring that every aspect of our stay was nothing short of perfect. The level of service at the Grand Hotel Majestic is truly exemplary, with every request met promptly and with a truly genuine smile. Having spent most of my working life in the hospitality industry this made my heart smile.
The bedrooms are nothing short of luxurious, I was given a personalised tour by Elena Spadaro the hotel’s delightful Sales Manager. Every room or suite is tastefully decorated in a style that seamlessly blends classic elegance with modern comforts. From sumptuous linen bedding to marble-clad bathrooms, they have successfully created a haven of indulgence for guests and after a day of exploring this enchanting city or going about your business within this is the perfect retreat. I especially adored the secret televisions hidden in seemingly antique mirrors within the suites.
Within the Hotel, they have discovered a Roman road, or "strada romana," a tangible link to Bologna's rich past as a strategic hub during the Roman Empire and serves as a vivid reminder of the city's importance as a crossroads of trade and culture in ancient times. This ancient road has been preserved and integrated into the hotel's architecture, creating a unique and immersive experience for all visitors.
It is no wonder that this beautiful hotel continues to enchant discerning travellers from around the World. Whether visiting for business or leisure, staying here at the Grand Hotel Majestic is an experience that leaves a lasting impression – one that is as unforgettable as it is extraordinary.
With so much to see and do we had to be selective with our choices but only a two-minute stroll from the hotel took us directly to the University of Bologna, established in 1088, which proudly holds the title of the oldest university in the Western world. Our exploration led us on to the Archiginnasio of Bologna, this was once the primary university building and is now home to the remarkable Archiginnasio Municipal Library and the Anatomical Theatre.
The intricate ceiling and wall decorations of the Anatomical Theatre were crafted between 1647 and 1649, with the lacunar ceiling being the sole remaining original feature from that period. At its centre, we admired the depiction of Apollo, the god of Medicine, encircled by symbolic representations of constellations intricately carved in wood.
The wooden statues adorning the theatre walls, skilfully carved by Silvestro Giannotti, depict renowned physicians of antiquity such as Hippocrates and Galen. Noteworthy among the sculptures are the two famous "Spellati" (skinned) figures, masterpieces by Ercole Lelli, which support the canopy above the teacher's chair, crowned with an allegorical image of Anatomy. Positioned at the heart of the theatre, a pristine white table once served as the platform for the dissection of human and animal specimens.
You can watch the captivating skill of pasta-making in action just moments from the hotel simply through the shop window, the meticulous attention to detail, and the time-honoured techniques that have been passed down through generations. There are numerous food tours available as expected in this foodie region but sometimes it is better just to wander on a self-discovery mission.
The hotel concierge arranged a transfer for us to visit the oldest producers of Balsamic vinegar near Modena. With origins dating back to 1605, over 400 years ago, the Giusti family has carefully tended their vineyards, hand-picked the finest grapes, and aged their vinegar in a series of wooden barrels, each variety of wood imparting its unique character to the final product. Remarkably, some of the original barrels are still in use, albeit with a few leaks!
A fascinating museum showcasing the family's history, artifacts, and a tasting area can be found within the shop. We've brought some of our favourites home with us, including the truffle balsamic, which was simply divine and will complement my next pasta dish alongside ‘formaggio parmigiano’.
At a time when the scourge of antisemitism is rearing its ugly head, museums serve as vital bastions of remembrance, education, and advocacy. Among them, the Museo Ebraico stands as a poignant testament to the resilience of the Jewish people and a solemn reminder of the dangers of hatred and prejudice. Located in a ghetto of Bologna dating back to 1556 the Museo Ebraico has long been a beacon of cultural heritage, preserving the rich tapestry of Jewish history and tradition. The museum offers visitors a sobering exploration of the myriad forms of hatred and discrimination faced by Jewish communities throughout the ages. From medieval pogroms to the horrors of the Holocaust, showing the systemic persecution endured by Jews across the centuries. I found this fascinating, an absolute education, and horrifying in equal measure.
We leave Bologna after what was a journey filled with discovery, culinary delights, and unforgettable experiences. From its historic landmarks to its vibrant street life, Bologna captured our hearts and left us longing to return. If you're seeking a destination that combines rich history, delicious food, and warm hospitality, look no further than Grand Hotel Majestic in the enchanting city of Bologna.
DISCOVER BOLOGNA
Porticoes of Bologna
The Grand Hotel Majestic- Morandi Wine Cellar
The Alma Mater Studiorum
The First Human Dissections in Europe Took Place Here