Two Towers (Asinelli & Garisenda)
Two Towers (Asinelli & Garisenda) features on the Gingerguide audio walk through Bologna. Give it roughly ~60 min: enough to look, hear a two to three minute story on the spot, and ask the AI guide whatever the story leaves open.
- Type landmark
- Suggested visit ~60 min
- Bologna Bologna guide
About Two Towers (Asinelli & Garisenda)
Bologna's iconic medieval twin towers: the 97-metre Asinelli (climbable, 498 steps) and the shorter, more dramatically leaning Garisenda, symbol of the city.
The Two Towers of Bologna are the most recognisable landmark of the city, rising dramatically from Piazza di Porta Ravegnana in the historic centre. Built in the 12th century by two rival noble families, the Asinelli and Garisenda, they were status symbols in an era when Bologna had over 180 medieval towers. The taller Asinelli Tower reaches 97.2 metres and leans approximately 2.2 metres off vertical. It is open to visitors: 498 steep wooden steps lead to a panoramic terrace with views stretching to the Alps on clear days. The smaller Garisenda Tower stands just 48 metres tall but leans more dramatically, over 3 metres off centre, making it appear about to topple. Dante Alighieri referenced the Garisenda in his Inferno (Canto XXXI), likening a giant's menacing lean to the tower's tilt. The towers are the symbol of Bologna, appearing on the city's crest and representing the city's medieval power and civic pride.
Did you know? At its medieval peak, Bologna had over 180 towers, today only about 20 survive. The skyline looked like a medieval Manhattan.
How long is a visit to Two Towers (Asinelli & Garisenda)?
Set aside roughly ~60 min for Two Towers (Asinelli & Garisenda). That covers a good look and the narrated story, and because you set the pace you can always stay on.
Is Two Towers (Asinelli & Garisenda) worth your time?
Two Towers (Asinelli & Garisenda) is among the 22 narrated highlights the Gingerguide team chose for Bologna, so it is worth a look. Hear the story for the context, then ask the AI guide for anything more.
Nearby stops in Bologna
Hear the story of Two Towers (Asinelli & Garisenda)
Preview the Bologna tour free in the Gingerguide app.