I had not attended the Coppa della Garisenda since the 2022 edition, and I missed the warm welcome of the Bolognese friends at the Club Bologna Autostoriche. This year, my calendar finally allowed me to join this wonderful event, which once again proved to be one of my favorite rallies.
As always, I prefer events where I can explore new places, meet old and new friends, taste local culinary specialties, and appreciate the unique characteristics of a region I rarely visit.
For this long weekend, I chose my Jaguar XK 140 Coupé, whose speed and comfort allowed me to travel comfortably and stay warm, despite the crisp autumn temperatures.
Saturday, October 18, 2025
The day began at the picturesque Castello dei Manzoli in San Martino di Soverzano, a short drive from Bologna. Participants were welcomed for registration and received information material about the event. After a short technical briefing, the historic cars set off in a convoy, traversing the Bolognese plain dotted with castles, historic villas, and vast estates.
Along the route, I frequently stopped to admire and photograph ancient mansions and characteristic villages, immersing myself in the charm of historic places. One of the most impressive stops was the Malvezzi Campeggi Estate in Bagnarola di Budrio, a private countryside estate normally closed to the public, belonging to a prominent Bolognese aristocratic family.
The route continued to Selva Malvezzi, at the Palazzo Comitale built by Carlo Malvezzi in 1455. Here, the current owner, a fellow member and historic car enthusiast, shared anecdotes about the origins of Abarth.
Traveling through the Bolognese plain, we passed Bagnara di Romagna and reached the first hills at Riolo Terme, where we enjoyed lunch at the historic Rocca di Riolo, whose original nucleus dates back to 1388. The Rocca, with its imposing halls and inner courtyards, was the perfect place to savor local dishes and exchange impressions with friends.
In the afternoon, the journey resumed through the first Bolognese hills, offering breathtaking panoramas and thrilling driving moments. The first day concluded at the prestigious Hotel Anusca Palace in Castel S. Pietro Terme, where we settled into our reserved rooms and relaxed in the wellness area.
Dinner was held at the renowned Istituto Alberghiero Bartolomeo Scappi, a convivial moment where we shared experiences and stories with fellow enthusiasts.
Sunday, October 19, 2025
After a leisurely breakfast and preparing the cars, the second day began from Castel S. Pietro Terme. The convoy headed toward Bologna, traveling through hills and plains, with stops at sites of historical and cultural interest.
The first stop was the splendid Palazzona di Maggio, where we learned the secrets of the local wines and the estate’s history, including stories about a famous Bolognese hill climb driver. Some regularity trials took place at the nearby FlyOzzano Airfield.
Heading toward the city, we arrived at Caserma Viali 121° Reggimento Artiglieria Contraerea “Ravenna” for further regularity tests and a pleasant aperitif.
Finally, in the heart of Bologna, the historic cars made a triumphant entrance in Piazza San Domenico, displayed for the public. Next, all participants moved to Piazza Santo Stefano, in the nearby Via De’ Pepoli venue, the site of the Maserati brothers’ first workshop, for the closing lunch.
During lunch, the results of the regularity tests were announced, and participants were awarded, with special prizes for the most remarkable cars. The winner received a prestigious O.S.C.A. STORE watch, presented by Fabia Maserati, Ernesto Maserati’s granddaughter and owner of the company.
The event concluded with a group photo under Bologna’s Two Towers and a special moment for charity: the official presentation of the fundraising campaign for the restoration of the Torre Garisenda, a city landmark. With greetings from the organizers and thanks to all participants, the 6th Coppa Garisenda ended, leaving memories of two days filled with emotions, culture, gastronomy, and friendship.
