To sit at a table at an outside bar under any one of many porticoes, and read the paper, scour the map or guidebook or just watch the sky as the sun and clouds jostle to dominate the scene. To allow the sidewalk display of a little store tease me inside, way into the bowels of a dark, surprisingly large collection of practical housewares and gadgets. To smile and tip my head in acknowledgment of the barman, who looks out from above his counter as I hurry past and realize that he recognizes me. I am part of his day as he is part of mine. To walk one time one direction on Via Galliera and then change sides.
Perspective brings new images into focus.
To walk toward the intersection with Via Riva di Reno and when I arrive, visualize the grand canal that at one time entered Bologna, hear the slapping water and imagine the silk mills and the flapping clothes of her 'laundromat'. To wonder at the devotion as I continue on my way. Then, to walk on, knowing that I will find more treasures under the porticoes. All it requires is a bit of time and paying attention. Life Under Bologna's Porticoes Copyright January 1996.