Due Torri | Bologna

Due Torri (The Two Towers) are one of the most iconic landmarks in Bologna, Italy. These medieval towers, Torre Asinelli and Torre Garisenda, are located in the heart of the city, in the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, and they symbolize the medieval power and prestige of Bologna.

Torre Asinelli (Asinelli Tower)

• Height: 97.2 meters (318 feet)
• Construction: The tower was built in the 12th century by the Asinelli family, one of the most prominent noble families in medieval Bologna.
• Purpose: Originally, it served as a defensive structure and a residence for the wealthy Asinelli family, as well as a symbol of their status and power in the city. The tower was used for military purposes and to project the family's wealth and influence.
• Climb: Torre Asinelli is the taller of the two towers and offers visitors the opportunity to climb 498 steps to reach the top. From the summit, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the entire city and the surrounding landscape. It is a must-see spot for tourists to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Bologna’s historic center and the hills in the distance.

Torre Garisenda (Garisenda Tower)

• Height: Originally, Torre Garisenda was about 60 meters tall, but due to its instability, it was reduced in height to 48 meters (157 feet) in the 14th century.
• Construction: Like the Torre Asinelli, Torre Garisenda was also built in the 12th century by a wealthy family (the Garisenda family).
• Purpose: It was primarily a defensive tower, though it also symbolized the family’s wealth and influence. Over time, it began leaning due to the soft ground it was built on, making it even more famous as one of the "leaning towers" of Italy.
• Lean: Torre Garisenda is often associated with its lean, which became more pronounced over the centuries. Today, the tilt is one of the defining characteristics of the tower and is a recognizable feature of the Bologna skyline.

The Two Towers’ History and Significance

Medieval Bologna: In medieval times, Bologna was known for its wealth and intellectual prowess, especially as a center of learning, with its prestigious University of Bologna (the oldest in Europe). Wealthy families competed by building these towers, and it is estimated that over 100 towers were constructed in Bologna during the 12th and 13th centuries. The Two Towers remain as the most famous and are a symbol of the city’s medieval past.

Symbolism: The Due Torri became a symbol of the power and prestige of Bologna's noble families. They stand as a reminder of the city's rich medieval history and its status as an influential and prosperous city-state during the Middle Ages.

The Two Towers Today

Tourism: Today, the Due Torri are among the most visited sites in Bologna. While Torre Garisenda is not open to the public for climbing due to safety concerns, Torre Asinelli offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city. The towers are often a focal point for photos, especially at sunset when they are illuminated.

Cultural Impact: The Two Towers are a defining part of the Bologna skyline and can be seen from many points in the city, especially from higher vantage points such as Piazzale Michelangelo or the hills around Bologna. They are also featured in literature, including in Dante’s Divine Comedy, where they are mentioned in the Inferno (Canto 31) as part of the architecture of hell.

Conclusion

The Due Torri are more than just architectural structures; they are key symbols of Bologna’s medieval past, representing the city’s historical wealth, power, and rivalry between the noble families. They continue to stand as a proud testament to Bologna’s architectural and cultural legacy, drawing both history enthusiasts and curious visitors from around the world.