The two leaning towers were built between 1109 and 1119 in a strategic position at the entrance to the city on the ancient via Emilia and are a symbol of the city of Bologna.
Built in brick, the towers not only played an important military role in signalling and defence but also represented the social prestige of the family responsible for their construction with their imposing height. At the end of 12th century there were approx. 100 towers in the city of which only 20-odd remain today, having survived fire, war and lightning.
Climbing the 498 steps of Torre degli Asinelli, the only tower that can be visited, to the top of its 97m height offers an unique view of the city. Artisan workshops can be found on the ground floor, relocated to recall the ancient commercial nature of this area. The Torre Garisenda, at only 47m, is famous for the degree of its tilt, caused by the shifting of its foundations and the terrain beneath. The towers are illuminated so that they can be seen from every corner of Bologna.
Emilia-Romagna Film Commission
Viale Aldo Moro 38 — 40127 Bologna
Phone: +39 051 5278753
Email: filmcom@regione.emilia-romagna.it
