Casalecchio di Reno Lock: the home of Bologna’s water supply

Info

Can you imagine Bologna as a city of water, crossed by a system of canals? It isn’t easy nowadays, is it? Nevertheless, there’s a place where you can go backwards in time and discover the most ancient hydraulic artifact in Europe still in use, the Chiusa di Casalecchio. 

In the year 2000 the site was included in the list of UNESCO 2000-2010 Heritage Messengers Programme as a symbol of the culture of peace in favour of young people.

During the thematic guided tour, you will walk above the sixteenth century walkway, probably designed by Jacopo Barozzi, called Vignola, who was one of the most important Italian Renaissance architects. You will also experience from up close the majestic dam, whose ramp is 160 m long, 35 m wide and 8 m high, and find out how Bologna became a city of water in the Middle Ages.

Full price: € 10.00 p/person
Reduced price: € 5.00 p/person (children 6-18 y.o.; disabled people helpers)
Free: under 6, disabled people

The booking of free tickets reserved for people with disabilities must be made by writing an email to booking@bolognawelcome.it or at the Bologna Welcome Info Point in Piazza Maggiore.

Meeting point:
Gate of Chiusa di Casalecchio
Via Porrettana 187
40033, Casalecchio di Reno (BO)

Before booking please bear in mind that:

• Considered the heat at this time of year, we recommend that you bring a hat and some water with you to make the best of your visit to the Casalecchio Lock
• The meetup is always 15 minutes before the visit starts. Meeting point is at the gate of Chiusa di Casalecchio, Via Porrettana 187, in Casalecchio di Reno. It can be reached from Bologna with the following tper lines: n. 20 (Stop Casalecchio Porrettana Canale/Casalecchio Chiusa), 89 (Stop Casalecchio Porrettana Canale), 92 (Stop Casalecchio Chiusa), 94 (Stop Casalecchio Chiusa).
• It is suggested to wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Children must be well attended