As Easter approaches, the vibrant cities of Bologna and Rome are gearing up for a weekend filled with cultural events, exhibitions, and festive activities. From April 19 to April 21, 2025, both cities will offer a plethora of opportunities for locals and tourists alike to celebrate the holiday in style.
In Bologna, the Easter weekend promises an array of artistic exhibitions that are sure to captivate visitors. Ten exhibitions are highlighted, including "Facile ironia. L’ironia nell’arte italiana tra XX e XXI secolo" at the MAMbo - Museo d’Arte Moderna, which will run until September 7, 2025. This exhibition showcases the evolution of irony in Italian art, featuring works by renowned artists such as Maurizio Cattelan and Michelangelo Pistoletto.
Another significant exhibition is "Otto viaggi di un romanziere" at the Galleria Modernissimo, celebrating the works of Georges Simenon until February 8, 2026. This extensive showcase includes 900 photographs and 40 films based on Simenon's novels, allowing fans to delve deeper into the world of the famous detective Maigret.
Additionally, the Museo Medievale di Bologna will host "Prospettive D’Oriente" until May 5, 2025, featuring a collection of Eastern art. The Museo Civico Archeologico will present "CHE GUEVARA tú y todos" until June 30, 2025, offering a unique perspective on the life of Che Guevara through previously unseen photographs and documents.
For those interested in contemporary art, the Museo Ottocento Bologna will unveil "Dinastia Salvini," a retrospective on the Salvini family of artists, from April 21 to May 5, 2025. Meanwhile, Palazzo Pallavicini will showcase a retrospective on the iconic comic character Diabolik, alongside works by the Scottish artist Jack Vettriano until July 20, 2025.
On April 19, visitors can join a guided tour called "L'enigma della sfinge | simboli arcani in Certosa" at the Cimitero della Certosa, exploring the hidden meanings of symbols found in the cemetery's monuments. This event, priced at €10 for general admission and €8 for Card Cultura holders, begins at 2:00 PM.
During Easter Sunday and Monday, all Civic Museums in Bologna will be open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, featuring a variety of cultural activities and guided tours. Families can partake in a guided tour and trekking event called "Alla scoperta del Navile: dal Battiferro al Torreggiani" on April 21 at 3:00 PM, which costs €5 for adults and €3 for children.
For those seeking entertainment, the Comunale Nouveau will present Verdi's "Un ballo in maschera" on April 19 at 4:00 PM, a dramatic opera that intertwines themes of love and betrayal.
Meanwhile, in Rome, the Easter weekend is equally bustling with activities. Civic museums will be open, and visitors can enjoy special events in conjunction with the upcoming Natale di Roma on April 21 and Earth Day on April 22. Access to many museums is free for holders of the Roma MIC Card, with some exceptions for specific exhibitions.
Rome's archaeological sites will also be accessible, including the Parco Archeologico del Celio and the Area Sacra di Largo Argentina. Visitors can explore the rich history of the city while enjoying the pleasant spring weather.
Food lovers can indulge in traditional Easter lunches at restaurants and agriturismos in Rome and the nearby Castelli Romani. However, families should prepare for a slight increase in costs, with an average Easter lunch now estimated at around €150, reflecting a 10% rise from the previous year.
For families looking for fun, parks like Cinecittà World and Magicland will be open, featuring attractions for all ages. Cinecittà World will host an exhibition of Dante Ferretti's work, while Magicland will introduce a new attraction themed around the Winx Club.
Art enthusiasts can visit exhibitions such as "Frida Kahlo through the lens of Nickolas Muray" and "Warhol Banksy," showcasing the works of these iconic artists. The Museo dei Bambini Explora will also be open, offering interactive experiences for young visitors.
The Grande Concerto di Pasqua will take place on April 20 at 8:30 PM in the church of San Paolo entro le Mura, featuring performances of classical music by Bach and Vivaldi, promising a beautiful evening of culture and celebration.
However, the holiday weekend may be marred by potential supermarket strikes, affecting shopping availability during Easter Sunday and Monday. Road closures and traffic diversions are also expected due to various events taking place across the city.
As Bologna and Rome prepare for a lively Easter weekend, locals and tourists are encouraged to partake in the festivities, explore the rich cultural offerings, and enjoy the beauty of spring in these historic cities. With a diverse range of events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
