The Basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi is an understated Gothic church on Bologna’s Strada Maggiore, a short walk from the Two Towers. Begun in the 14th century by the Servite order, it is framed by an elegant portico that opens onto a small square. The portico is among the arcades recognised as part of Bologna’s UNESCO World Heritage listing.
Inside, slender columns lead through a spacious nave towards chapels filled with art accumulated over centuries. The standout is the Maestà attributed to Cimabue, a rare example of late 13th-century painting from the period before Giotto transformed Italian art. Still an active place of worship, the basilica offers a quieter encounter with Bologna’s religious and artistic history than many of the city’s better-known sights.
Allow time to walk beneath the portico before stepping inside. Opening hours can include a midday closure, so check locally before visiting. Dress respectfully, keep your voice low and avoid sightseeing during services; look for signs before taking photographs.