For the European Heritage Days 2026, Palazzo Boncompagni is opening its doors to the public for a special occasion, featuring a program of guided tours and extraordinary openings. This offers a unique opportunity to discover one of the most fascinating sites within Bologna's historical and artistic heritage.
The 2026 edition of the European Heritage Days is dedicated to the theme Protecting Heritage: Renewing, Resisting, Reinventing-an invitation to reflect on the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage (both tangible and intangible) and the need to preserve it for future generations.
During the visit, guests can admire the Papal Audience Hall, distinguished by a ceiling fully adorned with frescoes depicting five episodes from the story of David, framed by *grotesque* ornamentation and refined decorative motifs.
The tour continues with the famous helical staircase attributed to Jacopo Barozzi (known as Vignola). Inspired by Bramante's designs at the Vatican and the staircase at Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola, it also shares stylistic affinities with the staircase at Palazzo Barozzi in Bologna.
The European Heritage Days also provide an opportunity to visit DUCATI 100, an exhibition currently hosted at Palazzo Boncompagni. It showcases the liveries that defined some of the most significant moments in Ducati's history. Ten contemporary motorcycles are displayed alongside the historic models that inspired them, creating a dialogue between design, innovation, and heritage.
Admission is free for children up to 10 years of age and for people with disabilities.
🕰️ Guided Tour Schedule
The 2026 edition of the European Heritage Days is dedicated to the theme Protecting Heritage: Renewing, Resisting, Reinventing-an invitation to reflect on the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage (both tangible and intangible) and the need to preserve it for future generations.
During the visit, guests can admire the Papal Audience Hall, distinguished by a ceiling fully adorned with frescoes depicting five episodes from the story of David, framed by *grotesque* ornamentation and refined decorative motifs.
The tour continues with the famous helical staircase attributed to Jacopo Barozzi (known as Vignola). Inspired by Bramante's designs at the Vatican and the staircase at Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola, it also shares stylistic affinities with the staircase at Palazzo Barozzi in Bologna.
The European Heritage Days also provide an opportunity to visit DUCATI 100, an exhibition currently hosted at Palazzo Boncompagni. It showcases the liveries that defined some of the most significant moments in Ducati's history. Ten contemporary motorcycles are displayed alongside the historic models that inspired them, creating a dialogue between design, innovation, and heritage.
Admission is free for children up to 10 years of age and for people with disabilities.
🕰️ Guided Tour Schedule
- Saturday, September 26, 2026
10:00 | 11:00 | 12:00 | 15:30 | 16:30 | 17:30 | 19:00 | 20:00 | 21:00 - Sunday, September 27, 2026
10:00 | 11:00 | 12:00 | 15:30 | 16:30 | 17:30