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The Canals of Bologna
Another Little Venice
I never knew Bologna boasted a canal system. A centre of culinary expertise in a nation famed for its food — yes. A Little Venice — I had no idea.
During the 12th C some 60km of canals were dug, connecting the city to the nearby Reno and Savena rivers. These not only connected Bologna to nearby cities to assist with cargo and trade, they helped mill-dependant trades such as grain, rice, bark (to produce tannin for leather) silk and brick to flourish.
Aside for helping to make Bologna a major trade centre during the Middle Ages, they also improved sanitisation throughout the city by facilitating public wash houses.
Now they are simply a gorgeous place to wander, not far from the centre of the city but still a little off the beaten tourist track. Even though it was raining (the rain drops hitting the water can be seen in the photo on the left, below) it was still worth the detour.
