Also known as Parco di Villa Ghigi, this is a favourite summer escape of the Bolognesi, a large expanse of oak forests, meadows and walking trails.
Monte Paderno made a big stir in 1603 when Vicenzo Cascariolo, a shoemaker-alchemist, discovered deposits of a phosphorescent mineral called barite (‘Bologna stone’), and claimed he had found the Philosopher’s Stone.
7km south of the city centre; follow Via San Mamolo and Via dei Colle; the No 29 and 30 buses get within 1km of the park.
Image by Ufficio di Turismo