Piazza Maggiore open-air cinema
Every summer the Cineteca di Bologna and the city turn Piazza Maggiore into an open-air cinema, with a film on a big screen most evenings. These pages cover what the festival is, when it runs, what it costs and how it connects to Il Cinema Ritrovato.
- What is Sotto le Stelle del Cinema?
Sotto le Stelle del Cinema is the free open-air film season the Cineteca di Bologna runs in Piazza Maggiore each summer, mixing restored classics and new films.
- When is the open-air cinema in Piazza Maggiore?
Piazza Maggiore's open-air cinema runs from mid-June to mid-August. The 2026 season ran 15 June to 14 August, with films starting at 21:45, or 21:30 in August.
- Is the Piazza Maggiore cinema free?
Yes. Sotto le Stelle del Cinema screenings in Piazza Maggiore are free with no ticket. Chairs go first come, first served, so arrive early on popular nights.
- What is Il Cinema Ritrovato?
Il Cinema Ritrovato is Bologna's festival of restored films, run since 1986. The 2027 edition runs 19 to 27 June, and its Piazza Maggiore screenings are free.