Piazza XX Settembre and town centre

The historic center dates back to 1199, from the fortified settlement wanted by the city of Bologna as a stronghold of its power, peace and autonomy.

The main square, Piazza XX Settembre - named after the breccia di Porta Pia in 1870 - is the beating heart of the historic center, with its artisans’ workshops and traditional local restaurants. In the center of the square rises the ionic column with the statue of Madonna del Rosario. Castel San Pietro Terme citizens made a vow to the Virgin after the earthquake of 1779, when the population sought shelter in the square where the column was later placed. The square is overlooked by the Palazzo del Municipio (city hall), Palazzo dell’ex Pretura (former magistrate’s court and local prison until the 20’s) and Santuario del Santissimo Crocifisso church.