In the heart of Bologna, where the ancient Via Emilia used to enter the city, stand the famous Due Torri: the Asinelli and the Garisenda. Both inclined, both legendary, both essential to understand the identity of this northern Italian city. Built between 1109 and 1119 by the families that bear their name, they arose at a time when erecting towers was a demonstration of power, wealth and military capability.
The Asinelli, the tallest, reaches 97.2 meters and offers an incomparable view after climbing its 498 steps. The Garisenda, much steeper and reduced to 48 meters, was cut back in the 14th century because of the risk of collapse due to the instability of the terrain. Together, both have defied fires, lightning, political conflicts and the changes of a city that never stopped expanding around them.
