Italy

Description

Visit the Seven Churches of the Basilica of Santo Stefano in Bologna and, together with your guide, learn more about their mysterious origins. You will also discover the adjacent Corte Isolani and the secrets that hide between the arches of this imposing palace overlooking Piazza Santo Stefano. While some claim that the Santo Stefano complex was built in 430AD to represent the places where the Passion of Christ had taken place, others believe it was commissioned by St. Petronius and that it was built over the ruins of a pagan temple. Explore the Church of the Crucifix, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Church of Saints Vitale and Agricola and the remarkable Courtyard of Pilate. Be sure to take note of the vast amount of paintings, sculptures and other works of art that adorn the walls. At the end of the visit, relax tasting local delicacies such as mortadella accompanied by wines from the Emilia-Romagna region.