Bologna’s Two Towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, rise above the medieval streets just east of Piazza Maggiore. The taller Asinelli reaches about 97 metres, while the 48-metre Garisenda leans conspicuously towards its neighbour. Together they are the city’s most recognisable landmark, appearing between porticoes and above terracotta rooftops throughout the historic centre.
Built in the early 12th century, the towers belonged to an era when powerful Bolognese families used such structures to display their status. Garisenda was shortened in the 14th century because of its unstable lean, already famous enough to be mentioned by Dante in the Inferno. Around twenty medieval towers survive in Bologna, but none are as closely tied to the city’s identity as this pair.
When open, Asinelli offers one of Bologna’s great viewpoints: nearly 500 steps lead up an internal wooden staircase to a panorama of red roofs, church domes and, on clear days, the Apennine foothills. Garisenda cannot be climbed, but its dramatic tilt is worth seeing from street level.
Access to Asinelli has been affected by conservation and safety work around Garisenda, so check official opening information before planning a climb. If visits are available, book ahead and wear shoes with good grip; the staircase is steep and narrow. The towers are an easy walk from Piazza Maggiore and make a natural starting point for exploring the nearby food shops and porticoed streets.