Bologna is an eye-catching ensemble of red bricked palazzi. Renaissance towers and arcaded porticoes, Bologna is generally recognised as the culinary capital of Italy - the capital of a region that created such signature dishes as Bolognese (or ragu), tagliatelle and parma ham, among other.

Bologna or la rossa (the red) is a political hotbed, having long had a reputation for left wing militancy. Passions have cooled much since students last faced down tanks in 1977, but the city remins highly political the University (Europe's oldest!), is still a source of great agitation.

Bologna is a wonderful place to explore on foot, thanks to 40km of wide, colonnaded walkwas that offer pedestrians shelter from the traffic, rain and heat in the summer. Heat isn't much of a problem at the moment as Italy is currently in the grips of winter. Still much more moderate and bright than Austria though!

I am staying at the Arcoveggio hotel, a quaint hotel located a bit off the beaten track but still close enough to take advantage of all the Bologna has to offer. The balcony would be wonderful in summer, I'm sure but it is just too cold to enjoy the outdoors for any great length of time!

I had lunch today at the Il portico, an excellent restaurant in the heart of Bologna. I had the house (and region) speciality, Tagliatte con ragu all bolognese with acque frizzante. Followed with a cappucino in the italian style, It was a nigh perfect dining experience and a great way to try out my fledgling italian!

Overall, I feel Bologna was a great place to begin my journeys in Italy!

And now on to Rome!