Italy, often ranking as one of the top cities in terms of quality of life in the country: in 2011 it ranked 1st out of 107 Italian cities.[4] Contents [hide] 1 History 1.1 Etruscan, Celtic and R

e, its importance in terms of landmarks can be attributed to homogenous mixture of monuments and architectural examples (medieval towers, antique buildings, churches, the layout of its historical centre) as well as works of art which are the result of a first class architectural and artistic history. Bologna is also an important transportation crossroad for the roads and trains of Northern Italy, where many important mechanical, electronic and nutritional industries have their headquarters. According to the most recent data gathered by the European Regional Economic Growth Index (E-REGI) of 2009, Bologna is the first Italian city and the 47th European city in terms of its economic growth rate.[2]
Bologna is home to prestigious cultural, economic and political institutions as well as one of the most impressive trade fair districts in Europe. In 2000 it was declared European capital of culture[3] and in 2006, a UNESCO “city of music”. The city of Bologna was selected to participate in the Universal Exposition of Shanghai 2010 together with 45 other cities from around the world. Bologna is also one of the wealthiest cities in Italy, often ranking as one of the top cities in terms of quality of life in the country: in 2011 it ranked 1st out of 107 Italian cities.[4]
Contents  [hide]
1 History
1.1 Etruscan, Celtic and Roman times
1.2 Middle Ages
1.3 Early modern
1.4 Late modern and contemporary
1.4.1 World War II
1.4.2 Post-war years
2 Geography
2.1 Territory
2.2 Climate
3 Main sights
4 Economy
5 Transport
6 Demographics
7 Education
8 Culture
8.1 Entertainment and performing arts
8.2 Cuisine
9 Sport
10 People
11 Companies
12 International relations