It is the highest comune in the Marche, and the smallest in Italy among those that hold the title of city. Legend says it was founded by three noblemen exiled from Bologna, and that the name means «little Bologna»; history denies it — there was a settlement here before the thirteenth century — but the three quarters were given the surnames of the three imaginary founders all the same.
The twentieth century arrived with two avalanches. In the winters of 1930 and of 1934 Monte Sassotetto sent them down on the village one at a time: nineteen dead each, and much of the oldest part of the village levelled. The three quarters, though, still exist, and at mid-August they compete in the Race of the Bucket: the winner is the one who runs the village streets spilling the least water.
Straight-line distances from the town centre. Tap a point to open its page.
Near Bolognola
The closest destinations covered by our editors, with straight-line distance.
Places to see within 25 km
Outside Bolognola, but an easy day trip away.