It’s hard to overstate the beauty of the magnificent palaces that line the streets of Bologna, and impossible not to be impressed by the impact they have on the fabric of the city.

The palazzi, with their monumental facades, ornate porticoes and magnificent interiors, were built by Bologna’s noble families six or seven centuries ago as symbols of power and prestige.

While some still serve as grand private homes for Bologna’s wealthiest residents, most are now civic buildings housing museums and galleries. And that means they’re open to the public.

We set ourselves a little project to visit a few more of Bologna’s beautiful palaces.