Dozza: Where the Middle Ages Meet Open-Air Art
Dozza isn't simply one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy ; it's an open-air art gallery, a medieval treasure nestled among the rolling hills of Bologna and Romagna. This small historic center is a unique sensory and cultural experience, a fusion of ancient history and contemporary creativity.
The “Painted Wall”: A Museum Without Borders
Dozza's distinctive feature is its Painted Wall . Since the 1960s, thanks to the foresight of the Painted Wall Biennial , the facades of the village's houses have been transformed into permanent canvases.
- Evolving Gallery: Over 200 mural works adorn the alleys, arches, and squares. Nationally and internationally renowned artists return regularly to renew and enrich this open-air , making the visit an ever-evolving journey through diverse styles and techniques.
- Perfect Harmony: These murals are not simply decorations, but works that interact The Angel of Dozza stands out , an iconic figure that seems to watch over the city.
The Sforza Castle: Guardian of History and Wine
At the top of the village, the imposing Rocca Sforzesca , a medieval fortress that underwent profound transformations until it became, in the Renaissance period, an elegant noble residence of the Malvezzi-Campeggi .
- A Journey Through Time: The fortress is perfectly preserved and open to visitors, from the ancient prisons to the historic kitchens furnished with original utensils, to the noble apartments filled with period furniture and portraits. Climbing its towers also offers unparalleled views of the surrounding valley, a sea of rolling hills covered in vineyards.
- Wine Capital: The evocative underground vaults of the Rocca house the Emilia-Romagna Regional Wine Shop . This exhibition and tasting space is more than just a point of sale, but a promotional center that proudly displays over 1,000 select labels , representing the best of the region's wines and spirits, from Sangiovese to Pignoletto.
The Soul of the Territory: Wine and Landscape
Dozza is inextricably linked to its hilly, wine-producing identity. It sits on a ridge offering breathtaking views, where agriculture and viticulture are vital. The village celebrates not only art, but also taste, serving as a gateway to the authentic flavors of Emilia-Romagna.
