Grave of Morandi

BolognaItaly 44° N · 11° E

Giorgio Morandi remains one of Italy’s most revered 20th-century painters, whose subtle yet profound still lifes and landscapes have left an indelible mark on…

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Giorgio Morandi’s Grave in Bologna

Giorgio Morandi is celebrated as one of Italy’s most influential 20th-century painters, known for his poetic still lifes and landscapes. His grave at Bologna’s Certosa Monumental Cemetery offers a contemplative connection with his legacy. The cemetery is a cultural treasure, with neoclassical architecture, funerary art and the resting places of many notable figures.

Bologna is also home to the Museo Morandi at MAMbo, which houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of his works, and Casa Morandi, the preserved home and studio where he lived and worked. For updates, consult the Museo Morandi website, Bologna Welcome and the Certosa di Bologna official page.

History

The Certosa Monumental Cemetery occupies a former Carthusian monastery that became a civic cemetery in 1801. Its monumental tombs, elaborate sculptures and tranquil arcades form a setting well suited to the quiet introspection of Morandi’s art.

What to See

Morandi’s Grave and the Certosa Cemetery

Morandi’s understated grave is in Campo Carducci, a section commemorating distinguished citizens and artists. Maps are available at the entrance, and staff can help with directions. Signage may not identify every grave explicitly, so a map or guidance is recommended.

Highlights of the cemetery include the Chiostro Maggiore and Campo Carducci.

Museo Morandi at MAMbo

The Museo Morandi is inside the Museo d’Arte Moderna di Bologna (MAMbo), at Via Don Minzoni, 14. It has the largest public collection of Morandi’s work: over 200 paintings, drawings, watercolors and etchings, as well as personal studio objects.

The museum regularly presents temporary exhibitions connecting Morandi’s work with contemporary art, including the 2025 Silvia Bächli exhibition (Finestre sull’Arte). Guided tours and educational workshops are available; check the website for schedules and booking.

Casa Morandi

Casa Morandi, at Via Fondazza 36, preserves the artist’s living and working space. The apartment retains original furnishings, books and personal items, offering a glimpse into Morandi’s daily life.

Practical Visiting Information

Certosa Monumental Cemetery

  • Address Via della Certosa, 18, 40133 Bologna, Italy
  • Opening hours
    • March 1–November 2: 7:00 AM–6:00 PM
    • November 3–February 28: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
    • Sunday hours may be shorter; check the official site for updates.
  • Entrance fee Free admission.
  • Public transport Bus lines 19, 20 or 21 from Bologna city center stop at “Certosa,” directly in front of the cemetery entrance. The journey takes about 15–20 minutes.
  • Taxi 10–15 minutes from the city center.
  • Walking or biking About 3 km from Piazza Maggiore, on mostly flat terrain.
  • By car Limited parking is available nearby.
  • Accessibility Main paths are paved and generally wheelchair accessible, though some older sections may have uneven ground.
  • Facilities Restrooms and vending machines are near the entrance.

Museo Morandi at MAMbo

  • Opening hours
    • Tuesday–Wednesday: 2:00 PM–7:00 PM
    • Thursday: 2:00 PM–8:00 PM
    • Friday–Sunday and holidays: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
    • Closed Mondays, except holidays.
  • Admission €6–7 for a standard ticket; discounts for students and seniors; free for children under 18 and on certain days for Bologna residents.
  • Tickets Buy at the entrance or through the Museo Morandi website.
  • Accessibility Fully accessible, with tactile materials for visually impaired visitors.

Casa Morandi

  • Admission Free, but advance booking is required. Contact the museum or ring the “CASA MORANDI” doorbell upon arrival.
  • Accessibility The historic building has some limitations; inquire in advance if needed.
  • Guided tours Available by appointment.

Tips and Suggested Itinerary

  • Allow 1–2 hours to explore the cemetery’s highlights, including the Chiostro Maggiore and Campo Carducci.
  • Photography is permitted for personal use. Be discreet and respectful, especially during funerals.
  • Dress modestly and speak softly; the cemetery is active.
  • Nearby cafés are on Via Andrea Costa.
  • Early morning or late afternoon offers tranquility and optimal light.
  • Check opening hours, especially for Casa Morandi, which requires advance booking.
  • Public transportation is available to the cemetery, and comfortable shoes are useful for walking.
  • Guided tours and temporary exhibitions can add to a visit.

Suggested itinerary:

  1. Morning Visit Morandi’s grave at Certosa di Bologna.
  2. Late morning Explore Casa Morandi; advance booking is required.
  3. Lunch Enjoy local cuisine in Bologna’s historic center.
  4. Afternoon See Morandi’s works at Museo Morandi at MAMbo.
  5. Optional Take a day trip to Grizzana Morandi and visit the Casa Museo Giorgio Morandi (Taste Bologna).
  • Accademia di Belle Arti di Bologna Morandi studied and taught there; see his original printing press.
  • Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna Features works by artists who influenced Morandi.
  • Church of Santa Maria dei Servi Home to Cimabue’s Madonna, a spiritual inspiration for Morandi.
  • Bologna’s historic center A lunch stop in the suggested itinerary.
  • Grizzana Morandi The optional day trip destination, home to the Casa Museo Giorgio Morandi.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the visiting hours for the Certosa Cemetery?
The listed hours are March 1–November 2, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM, and November 3–February 28, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Another seasonal summary gives March–November, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM, and November–February, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Sunday hours may be shorter. Check the official site for updates.

Is there an entrance fee for the cemetery or Museo Morandi?
The cemetery is free. Museo Morandi charges €6–7 for a standard ticket, with discounts available.

How do I get to Morandi’s grave by public transport?
Bus lines 19, 20 or 21 from the city center stop at “Certosa,” directly in front of the cemetery entrance.

Are guided tours available?
Yes. The cemetery and museum offer guided tours. Casa Morandi visits are by appointment.

Is photography allowed?
Yes, for personal use, but be respectful, especially in the cemetery.

Is the cemetery accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?
The main paths are paved and generally accessible; some older areas may have uneven ground.