In Bologna, Football Still Belongs to the People

By Luca Miscioscia

Hardworking and Humilty

Bologna FC were founded in 1909, and for a long time, they were one of Italy’s great powers. Seven-time Serie A champions, their last title came in 1964, when legends like Giacomo Bulgarelli and Helmut Haller pulled the strings in midfield. The club has seen its share of ups and downs since then, but the affection around the Dall’Ara has never wavered.

Over the years, some remarkable players have worn the red and blue: Roberto Baggio moved from AC Milan, and brought his artistry here in the late ’90s; Giuseppe Signori scored goals that echoed around the ground; and more recently, the city has fallen for players like Lewis Ferguson and Riccardo Orsolini. Both highlighting Bologna’s ability to cultivate players into genuine stars.

There’s a humility to the club, a sense that they play with the city’s personality — hardworking, proud, never overblown.

WE ARE ONE

The rain had started hours before kick-off, that persistent autumn drizzle that never quite lets up in northern Italy. It didn’t put anyone off. And why should it. Bologna in the rain is just beautiful, as when the sun is pulsing down on its terracotta landscape. Along Via Andrea Costa, the walk to the Renato Dall’Ara Stadium felt like a quiet pilgrimage. Red and blue scarves hung from shoulders, shop windows, and cafes. Outside small bars, the smell of espresso mixed with traditional pastries and all the while everyone was talking about football. There can’t be many better ways to spend an afternoon than this.

I really enjoyed the atmosphere at the Renato Dall’Ara Stadium. Despite the rain and cold on this autumn Sunday, the Bologna crowd responded to the call. People of all ages wore their red and blue scarves, a show in itself. It was an incredible game against Serie A newcomers Pisa. Bologna ran out 4–0 winners, moving up to seventh in the table.

Inside, the noise rose and fell with every attack. The Curva Andrea Costa sang in unison, the sound bouncing off the old concrete stands. There’s no manufactured energy here — just a natural, communal pulse. When the third goal went in, even the stewards smiled. By the fourth, the whole place felt lifted.

There’s something deeply likeable about this club. A stadium, unlike many, a passionate crowd, a skilful and hardworking team, with no egos. They play for the crowd, and the crowd are with them. We Are One, it says around the stadium, and they really are all in this together. It is a place where you feel that football still belongs to the people.

After the final whistle, I wandered out into the evening. The rain had stopped, and the sound of conversation spilt out of nearby bars. Bologna feels alive in a very grounded way, confident without fuss. You can stop anywhere for a spritz or a beer, and you’ll probably end up talking football before you finish your drink.

Centuries of Life and Conversation

Bologna is a truly fantastic city, every corner worth discovering. I really appreciated the Basilica of San Luca, which dominates the city from above. You can get there on foot or by bus 58: trust me, it’s worth it. The walk takes you under nearly four kilometres of porticoes, a covered pathway that’s as much a part of Bologna’s identity as its food or football.

These porticoes, now recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, give Bologna a distinctive aesthetic. They offer shade in summer, shelter in winter, and a sense of quiet continuity. You walk through centuries of life and conversation, each archway a gentle echo of the past.

Back in the centre, the city hums with quiet character. Piazza Maggiore, the beating heart of Bologna, is framed by terracotta buildings and an easy confidence. You can sit with a coffee and watch locals cycling through the square, umbrellas in hand if the rain starts again.

The Food

Bologna is also famous for its culinary specialities: the ragù alla bolognese is a must-try. But don’t expect spaghetti, this is tagliatelle territory. The food here isn’t about reinvention or performance; it’s about doing things properly. A plate of pasta, a glass of red, and suddenly the world feels a bit more manageable.

If you’ve just come from the match, try Trattoria Meloncello, just by the base of the San Luca portico. It’s packed with old photographs of Bologna teams and the kind of locals who’ll happily debate the best goal they’ve ever seen. Or head to Osteria del Sole, one of Italy’s oldest taverns, where you can bring your own food and share a bottle with strangers at a long wooden table.

The Feeling

I found a strong connection with football, a great sense of belonging among the people of Bologna and their team. The passion isn’t loud or forced; it’s something shared naturally, the same way people here share food or conversation.

I absolutely recommend visiting the city. It’s well-served by public transport, even with other Italian cities. It has an airport, great food, and football. So, what are you waiting for? Go on holiday to this city, taking the opportunity to see Bologna FC as well of course.