Majani: Bologna’s Historic Chocolate Maker Since 1796
In the heart of Bologna, the capital of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, stands one of the country’s most historic chocolate institutions: Majani. For more than two centuries, this celebrated chocolatier has been part of the city’s daily life, shaping local tastes and preserving traditional craftsmanship.
A Rich History
Founded in 1796 by Teresina and Teresa Majani, Majani is widely regarded as Italy’s oldest chocolate manufacturer. What began as a small confectionery workshop gradually grew into a reference point for fine chocolate, maintaining original recipes and artisanal methods across generations.
The business first operated as a confectionery shop in the historic centre of Bologna. As demand increased, the company relocated in 1834 to larger premises in Via Fra’ Silvestro, which still serves today as Majani’s flagship store and production site.
Pioneering Chocolate Innovations
Majani played a pioneering role in Italian chocolate-making. In 1868, it became the first company in Italy to successfully produce pure cacao tablets, helping establish chocolate as a refined product rather than a medicinal or luxury curiosity.
Perhaps its most famous creation is the Cremino, developed in 1911 following a competition launched by Fiat to promote its new car model, the Tipo 4. The result was the Cremino Fiat — a four-layer chocolate alternating hazelnut paste and chocolate — which quickly became Majani’s signature product and remains an icon of Italian confectionery.
Majani and Bologna’s Cultural Identity
Majani is deeply intertwined with Bologna’s cultural fabric. For generations, local families have associated its chocolates with celebrations, holidays, and everyday rituals. The shop is not simply a place to buy sweets, but a living piece of the city’s memory, reflecting Bologna’s strong connection between food, craftsmanship, and community.
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Its continued presence in the historic centre reinforces the city’s reputation for preserving authentic traditions while remaining economically vibrant and internationally visible.
Economic and Educational Impact
As a globally recognised brand, Majani attracts visitors from around the world, contributing to Bologna’s tourism economy and supporting local supply chains. The company traditionally sources high-quality ingredients, including Italian hazelnuts and regional products, reinforcing links between craftsmanship and agriculture.
Majani also plays an educational role. Schools and culinary institutes frequently visit the facilities to observe traditional production techniques and understand the historical evolution of Italian confectionery, helping preserve artisanal knowledge for future generations.
A Living Symbol of Italian Craftsmanship
Today, Majani remains a symbol of continuity, quality, and patience — values increasingly rare in modern food production. Its longevity reflects Bologna’s ability to protect its culinary heritage while maintaining international relevance.
To explore more stories, destinations, and food culture from Emilia-Romagna, visit our main site: Emilia Delizia.
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