Hotels near Two Towers (Asinelli & Garisenda)

Rising above Bologna's medieval skyline, the Two Towers — Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda — are the city's most recognizable symbols. Built by rival noble families in the 12th century, they stand as enduring reminders of the wealth and competition that shaped medieval Italian city life.

A Tale of Two Towers

Torre degli Asinelli, the taller of the pair, reaches approximately 97 meters and leans slightly from vertical. Visitors can climb its 498 wooden steps to reach a panoramic viewing platform at the top, offering sweeping views over Bologna's rooftops, porticoes, and the surrounding Apennine hills. Torre Garisenda, the shorter companion at around 48 meters, has a more pronounced lean and is not open to the public due to structural concerns. Dante Alighieri referenced the Garisenda in his Inferno, cementing its place in Italian literary history.

Medieval Power and Architecture

At their peak, Bologna reportedly had over 100 towers built by competing aristocratic families as displays of power and status. Today, only a handful survive, making the Two Towers a rare and tangible connection to that era. The towers sit at the intersection of Via Rizzoli and Strada Maggiore, a central and easily walkable location within the historic center.

Practical Tips

• Climbing Torre Asinelli requires a ticket; book in advance during busy periods.
• The base of the towers is freely accessible at any time.
• Early morning visits offer quieter conditions for photos.
• The towers are a short walk from Piazza Maggiore, making them easy to combine with other sightseeing.

FAQs

Can you climb both towers? Only Torre degli Asinelli is open to visitors. Torre Garisenda is closed due to ongoing structural monitoring.

How many steps are there in Torre Asinelli? There are 498 wooden steps leading to the top viewing platform.

When were the towers built? Both towers were constructed in the early 12th century, around 1109–1119.

Are the towers really leaning? Yes. Torre Asinelli leans slightly, while Torre Garisenda has a more pronounced tilt visible to the naked eye.