History
The Quadrilatero is the hub of Bologna’s historic centre and one of the oldest areas of the city, which grew up around trade and craftsmanship. Its shape and current role took form in the Middle Ages, a period of great urban growth, when the area became the centre of economic activity and of Bologna’s arts and crafts guilds. Each street specialised in a particular trade or craft: Via Pescherie Vecchie was home to the fishmongers; Via degli Orefici was the centre for jewellers and goldsmiths; Via Drapperie was dedicated to cloth and fabric merchants; Via dei Toschi took its name from the butchers (or “beccai”) who came from Tuscany.
Its proximity to Piazza Maggiore, the political and religious centre, strengthened the importance of the Quadrilatero as the “market square”, or Mercato di Mezzo.
The medieval urban layout, with its narrow alleys and shops opening onto the street, has been remarkably well preserved over time. Between 1910 and 1920 the area underwent a building renewal project that led to some reconstruction, while preserving the area’s historic layout.
Today, the Quadrilatero keeps its ancient soul alive. It is the place of choice for the daily market and the Bolognese aperitivo, remaining, as it was centuries ago, the vibrant beating heart of the city.
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