Medieval Bologna
The medieval period in Bologna spans from the end of Gothic War 553 ce to 1401, when Giovanni I Bentivoglio proclaimed himself signore Bologna. After War, mid-6th century, at first Etruscan and later Roman settlement came within sphere influence Exarchate Ravenna subsequently hands Carolingians then kings Italy (9th–10th centuries). city was governed by a count, like other regions under Carolingian dominion, duke. From 10th particularly 11th economic recovery, expanded beyond walls, with modest dwellings housing artisans who were moving countryside. At reached turning point its history, emergence university—in particular, law school. In following centuries, students converged on all over Europe, managed meet needs large numbers students. 12th century merchants, artisans, professional classes established an autonomous form government, commune. Together cities northern Italy, part Lombard League, it fought against emperor Frederick Barbarossa, laid claim government city. emerged that conflict state full autonomy. 1150s, second circle defenses constructed, Torresotti but proved be inadequate. late 1220s, much more extensive which this day marks limits historic center. During 13th various forms adopted. beginning controlled aristocrats entrepreneurs, giving way popular (Comune di Popolo) middle century. political tensions between social strata gave rise insecurity, resulting intended safeguard economy. Various set up 14th internal external rulers: local Pepoli family, Milan’s Visconti. But greatest threat Bologna’s autonomy papacy, regimes Cardinal du Pouget, legate Guillaume de Noellet. 1376 there reassertion Commune.