CASTEL MAGGIORE - Bologna
Guide to CASTEL MAGGIORE
Castel Maggiore is a city of 18,298 inhabitants in the province of Bologna. Its ancient name was Castaniolo, and its origins date back to the Roman imperial era, as evidenced by some findings in the area. Due to its location, Castel Maggiore has been the scene of continuous battles: first the Gothic wars, then it came under the control of the Exarchate of Ravenna, to be subsequently invaded by the Lombards and Franks. The name Castel Maggiore dates back to the beginning of the 1800s, and during this period the city experienced a period of industrialization, with the opening of a new mechanical and smelting workshop at the forefront that dealt with the construction of agricultural machinery and utensils.
WHAT TO SEE AND WHAT TO DO IN CASTEL MAGGIORE
Around Castel Maggiore, one can admire beautiful private villas belonging to the ancient noble families of the area. Among these, Villa Zarri, dating back to the eighteenth century, deserves a visit; its facade is adorned with a central tympanum and is surrounded by a large park of lindens and plane trees. Villa Salina, belonging to the eponymous family, now houses regional structures and has a characteristic gate decorated with sphinxes. Villa Isabella, from the baroque period, is a typical Bolognese villa, and one can still admire beautiful frescoes in the loggia and in some rooms, as well as a beautiful garden with an artificial lake and numerous statues. For those who prefer outdoor activities, the Canale Navile and Lungoreno offer pleasant walks, and one might even reach the ancient palace of Sostegno.
But Castel Maggiore, besides being a place suitable for peaceful strolls, is located in what is now known worldwide as Motor Valley, a destination for car and motorcycle enthusiasts and adrenaline seekers. The roads in this area are among the most beautiful in the country, and for years they have been a magnet for fans of two and four wheels in search of breathtaking curves and panoramas. Furthermore, just a few kilometers from Castel Maggiore is Borgo Panigale, home to the renowned Ducati motorcycle manufacturer. Founded in 1926, Ducati has been building cutting-edge motorcycles since 1946, both technologically and stylistically. Today, Ducati competes in Superbike and Moto GP races, winning numerous victories. In 2015, Ducati also introduced the Scrambler brand, a perfect blend of new concepts and tradition, available in many different versions, from those suitable for off-road to more classic ones, to satisfy all enthusiasts. The Scrambler brand also includes a line of accessories and technical and everyday clothing. If all this were not enough, Motor Valley also features 5 racetracks and 11 kart tracks, where speed lovers can not only visit places they consider iconic but also experience the thrill of speed.
EVENTS AND MANIFESTATIONS
Many events take place throughout the year in Castel Maggiore: we start with Italia da Gustare at the end of February, a food and wine event that allows you to taste the typical products of various Italian regions; in mid-March there is the ancient Raviola Festival, dating back to 1600, an opportunity to taste local traditional cuisine; CondiMenti at the end of June, a festival dedicated to food and literature that takes place in the magnificent setting of Villa Salina, featuring book presentations, tastings, cooking shows, and theatrical performances.
Pro Loco CASTEL MAGGIORE
Via del Railway Station, 2 - 40013
Tel. +39 051 713 599
www.prolococastelmaggiore.com
Town of CASTEL MAGGIORE
Via Matteotti, 10 - 40013
Tel. +39 051 638 6811
www.comune.castel-maggiore.bo.it
OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS
Nearest hospital:
HOSPITAL MAGGIORE
Largo Nigrisoli, 2, Bologna
Tel. +39 051 647 8111
Emergency tel. 118
where it is and how to reach Castel Maggiore
CASTEL MAGGIORE borders with the municipal territory of Bologna and is easily reachable from there:
in AUTO: EXIT 5 or 6 from the ring road
by TRAIN : Metropolitan Railway Service, Bologna-Padua line with frequent schedule, from Bologna Central Station stops at Bologna Corticella or Castel Maggiore
by BUS : From Bologna Bus Station TPER line for Castel Maggiore
CASTEL MAGGIORE
