Two Towers, Bologna
Emilia-Romagna
The Two Towers, known as Due Torri, stand prominently in Bologna's Piazza di Porta Ravegnana and are the city's most famous medieval monuments. The taller of the two, Torre degli Asinelli, reaches 97.2 meters and leans slightly, making it the tallest leaning tower in Italy. Built between 1109 and 1119, it was originally constructed by the noble Asinelli family and served as a symbol of power and defense during the Middle Ages. The tower features an internal staircase of 498 steps leading to a panoramic terrace that offers breathtaking views over Bologna. The smaller tower, Torre Garisenda, is notably shorter and leans more steeply. Historically, the towers marked a key intersection of major city streets and were part of the city's defensive structures. Over centuries, the Asinelli Tower survived cannon fire, fires, and lightning strikes, with protective measures installed in the 19th century. Today, the towers are a must-visit attraction, embodying Bologna's medieval heritage and architectural ingenuity, drawing tourists worldwide for their imposing presence and unique leaning characteristic.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit the Two Towers during weekdays in the morning to avoid crowds. Booking tickets for the Torre degli Asinelli ascent in advance is recommended, especially in peak seasons. Discounts are available for children, seniors, students, and cultural card holders. Note that the climb involves 498 steps with no elevator, so it is not suitable for those with heart conditions, asthma, vertigo, or claustrophobia. Arrive at least 5 minutes before your scheduled time and be aware that large bags and certain footwear are not allowed.
Interesting facts
- •The Torre degli Asinelli is the tallest leaning medieval tower in Italy at 97.2 meters.
- •The tower leans approximately 2.23 meters to the west, making it a notable architectural curiosity.
- •In 1790, scientist Giovanni Battista Guglielmini conducted experiments by dropping lead spheres from the tower to study Earth's rotation.
- •The towers once had a wooden bridge connecting them at 30 meters high, destroyed by fire in 1398.
- •The Asinelli Tower has been struck by lightning multiple times over seven centuries before a lightning rod was installed.
History
The Torre degli Asinelli was constructed between 1109 and 1119, traditionally attributed to the noble Pietro Asinelli.
Initially part of a family residence near the Aposa stream, the tower was later elevated to serve as a lookout during political conflicts of the 11th and 12th centuries.
By the late 14th century, the city acquired the tower for use as a prison and fortress.
Over time, the tower endured damage from cannon fire, fires, and frequent lightning strikes until a lightning rod was installed in 1824.
The towers have long symbolized Bologna's medieval power struggles and urban development, maintaining their iconic status through centuries of change.
Place Guide
Torre degli Asinelli1109-1119
The tallest of the Two Towers, standing 97.2 meters high with a slight westward lean. Visitors can climb 498 steps to reach the summit terrace, offering spectacular panoramic views of Bologna's historic center and surrounding countryside.
Piazza di Porta RavegnanaMedieval period
The bustling square where the Two Towers are located, historically a medieval market and a key junction of several important streets such as Strada Maggiore and via Zamboni. It also features a 17th-century statue of St. Petronius, Bologna's patron saint.
Torre Garisenda12th century
The smaller and more steeply leaning tower adjacent to Torre degli Asinelli. While shorter, it is equally iconic and contributes to the city's medieval skyline.
