Italy Courtyard of Santa Maria dei Bulgari, Bologna

The Courtyard of Santa Maria dei Bulgari is a quiet, historic spot in the Archiginnasio of Bologna, once the main university building. Surrounded by elegant arcades and decorated walls, it offers a glimpse into Bologna’s academic past. Its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a perfect place for tourists and photographers to explore and capture unique details.

To photograph the Courtyard of Santa Maria dei Bulgari, visit during the early morning or late afternoon for soft, natural light and fewer people. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the symmetry of the arcades and architectural details. Try framing through archways for depth, and focus on light and shadow contrasts on the historic walls. Don’t forget to look up—ceilings and columns offer great patterns and textures.

To reach Bologna, you can fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, take a train to Bologna Centrale, or drive via major Italian highways. From Bologna Centrale station, it's about a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride to the city center.

The Courtyard of Santa Maria dei Bulgari is located inside the Archiginnasio of Bologna, just off Piazza Maggiore. Once you're in the square, it's a 1–2 minute walk. The entrance is free, and you can explore the courtyard during Archiginnasio's opening hours.