In the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna, a few kilometers from Bologna, lies one of Italy's best-kept secrets: Dozza, a picturesque medieval village that seems to have emerged from a painting... literally.
This charming spot is known as an open-air museum, and for good reason: its streets are filled with murals decorating the facades of houses, shops, and historic buildings.
Every two years, artists from around the world arrive to participate in the Painted Wall Biennial, an event that transforms this small town of fewer than 2,000 inhabitants into a living gallery, where contemporary art merges with medieval architecture.
The result: a magical place where every alley invites you to stop, look, and take a photo (or many). The works range from surreal scenes to portraits laden with symbolism.
To participate in the Dozza Painted Wall Biennial—held in odd-numbered years during September—artists must apply in advance. Selection is neither open nor automatic; it involves a curated and competitive process.
What is the process?
- Call for Entries: A national and international call is launched before each edition.
- Application: Interested artists must submit a portfolio of previous work, artistic proposals, and a motivation letter or concept of their planned project.
- Curated Selection: An artistic committee made up of curators, art historians, and representatives from local organizations (including the municipality of Dozza and the Dozza City of Art Foundation) evaluates the proposals.
- Criteria: The murals should be in harmony with the town spirit, be technically sound, creative, and propose something new.
Once selected, the artists travel to Dozza and paint on-site for a week, transforming the town's streets into a living art spectacle that visitors can view in real time.
What else can you visit in Dozza?
The Rocca di Dozza, an imposing medieval fortress from the 13th century, is the historical and cultural heart of the town.
Perched on a hilltop, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the vineyards and rolling hills of Emilia-Romagna. Its structure is preserved magnificently, with towers, courtyards, and halls that retain their period charm.
Today, this fortress houses the Enoteca Regionale di Emilia-Romagna, a true temple for wine lovers. Here you can taste and purchase more than 800 labels of wines from the region, including the famous Sangiovese, the refreshing Albana, and the sparkling Pignoletto. Guided tours, tastings, and events are also organized, connecting art, history, and flavor.
And, when it comes to delights, Dozza is a feast for the senses.
Its traditional trattorias and inns invite you to enjoy local cuisine in a cozy and authentic setting. Dishes like tortellini al ragù, piadina romagnola, and cappelletti are ideally paired with local wines. Walking through its cobblestone streets, amid colorful murals and enticing aromas, makes Dozza an experience that combines art, history, and gastronomic pleasure like few others.
This small town is a must-see if you're looking for a unique experience in Italy: art, history, landscapes, and unforgettable flavors... all in one place. The best part? It's still a relatively untouristy destination. So, if you're planning your next getaway, Dozza could be your hidden gem to discover.
