University of bologna
Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna (Università di Bologna, UNIBO) holds the distinction of being the oldest university in continuous operation in the Western world.
Located in the heart of Bologna, Italy, it has profoundly influenced the development of higher education in Europe and remains a central institution in Italy’s academic and cultural life. With over nine centuries of history, UNIBO has continually adapted to the changing needs of society while preserving a strong foundation in classical academic values..
UNIBO
The university has multiple campuses spread across the Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy, including in Bologna, Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini. UNIBO offers a comprehensive array of programs, hosting over 85,000 students across its 33 departments and 11 schools.
Its educational offer spans humanities, sciences, engineering, economics, medicine, and the arts, emphasizing interdisciplinary research and innovation.
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UNIBO has long been a pioneer in European academic initiatives. It was one of the key institutions involved in the Bologna Process, which aimed to harmonize higher education systems across Europe. The university remains deeply involved in international research networks and academic exchange programs such as Erasmus+, underscoring its commitment to mobility and knowledge sharing.
department of architecture
The Department of Architecture (DA) at the University of Bologna is a multidisciplinary center for education and research in architecture, urban planning, conservation, and design.
Among its key research groups, the Planning and Regeneration group specializes in urban regeneration practices, participatory planning, culture-led innovation, and urban health—particularly in relation to public lighting and its effects on social well-being.
The Architectural Restoration group focuses on the conservation and preservation of architectural heritage, with specific expertise in masonry ruins, historical buildings, and landscape restoration.
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The Advanced Design Unit investigates advanced, anticipatory design methods, with particular attention to processes of commoning and reactivation in urban, cultural, and human contexts. Closely linked with networks in the cultural and creative industries, the unit fosters innovation at the intersection of design and societal transformation.
UNIBO offers a comprehensive array of programs, hosting over 85,000 students across its 33 departments and 11 schools
The UNIBO team
For the Art of Darkness project, these three groups have joined forces to create a multidisciplinary research team.
By integrating their complementary perspectives—urban regeneration, architectural preservation, and forward-looking design—they explore the cultural, spatial, and perceptual dimensions of darkness in contemporary urban environments. This collaboration reflects the department’s commitment to cross-disciplinary knowledge production and socially engaged research practices.
Meet the team:
– Giulia Marzani
– Elisa Conticelli
– Eleonora Melandri
– Martin Flugelman Olmeda
– Simona Tondelli
– Lucia Pirodda
– Andrea Ugolini
– Elena Vai
Photos: © Università di Bologna; Ph. Salvatore Mirabella; Ph Giulio Cassanelli