Tombe dei Glossatori

Arranging a trip to the Tombe dei Glossatori is refreshingly simple. The landmark lies a comfortable walk from the major piazzas, and admission is free. Although the tombs sit outdoors, some find the plaza busiest during university semesters when students fill the area between classes. Consider visiting in off-peak hours for a quieter experience. The site is compact—perfect for a brief but meaningful stop, although those interested in history or photography might linger longer. No tickets or reservation are required, and nearby cafes offer a good spot for a post-visit rest.

• Best time to visit: Spring or early fall, mornings or late afternoons
• How to get there: Easy walk from Piazza Maggiore; closest bus stop at Via Zamboni
• Accessibility: Flat stone plaza, suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and most visitors
• Average visit duration: 20–30 minutes

Of all Bologna’s historic sites, Tombe dei Glossatori holds a special place for those curious about the world’s first university and the wisdom it fostered. Each tomb is both a memorial and a masterpiece, showcasing Gothic architectural details rarely seen elsewhere in the city. Nearby, the arcades and quiet courtyards add a touch of medieval character. Plaques and signs explain the lives of the professors laid to rest amid stone arches and carved figures. It's easy to see, in the details, how learning shaped Bologna’s spirit.

• Key sights: Tombs of Accursio, Odofredo, and Rolandino—beautiful stone canopies, intricate carvings, and Latin inscriptions
• Unique experience: Stand in the quiet plaza at dusk, when golden light makes the stonework glow
• Photo-worthy locations: Views from the corners of Piazza San Francesco, close-ups of carved figures, archways framing the tombs
• Historical fact: The site honors jurists who helped make Bologna’s university famous across Europe in the 13th century