Bologna Towers are a pair of iconic towers located in the historic city of Bologna, Italy. These towers are known as the "Due Torri" in Italian, which translates to "Two Towers" in English. The towers are the most recognizable landmarks in Bologna and are considered to be the symbol of the city.
The taller of the two towers, known as the Asinelli Tower, stands at a height of 97.2 meters (319 feet) and was built in the 12th century. It has 498 steps to reach the top, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The tower is named after the family who commissioned its construction, the Asinelli family.
The shorter tower, known as the Garisenda Tower, stands at a height of 48 meters (157 feet) and was built in the 12th century as well. It was originally taller, but was partially demolished in the 14th century due to safety concerns. The tower is named after the family who commissioned its construction, the Garisenda family.
The towers were originally built as defensive structures for the city, but over time they became symbols of power and wealth for the families who owned them. Today, they are popular tourist attractions and are considered to be among the most important medieval structures in Europe.
Visitors to Bologna can climb the Asinelli Tower for a fee and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the top. The Garisenda Tower is not open to the public due to safety concerns, but visitors can still admire its unique leaning structure from the ground.
Overall, the Bologna Towers are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city of Bologna. They are a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage, and offer visitors a glimpse into the past while also providing stunning views of the present.