The Sacred and the Studies: the Archiginnasio Public Library of Bologna (Italy)

Abstract

The Palazzo dell'Archiginnasio was the seat of the Bologna Studio from 1563 to 1798 and inside it many sacred representations recall the profound and widespread presence of the Christian religion in the complex of the decoration of the building. The chapel of Santa Maria dei Bulgari hosted the most important ceremonies concerning the University; every lecture hall and each of the two halls that served as a lecture hall for law students and for artist students had an image of the Madonna and Child on the wall, corresponding to the teacher's chair.