Garisenda Tower

The Tower of Garisenda, located in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana in Bologna, is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. Together with the nearby Tower of Asinelli, it forms the famous duo of the Two Towers, which dominates the Bolognese skyline. Built between 1109 and 1119 by the Garisendi family, the tower originally had a defensive and prestigious purpose, representing the power and wealth of the family that commissioned it. The Garisenda is famous for its pronounced lean, due to a ground and foundation subsidence. This structural problem became evident shortly after construction, so much so that in the 14th century the tower was lowered by about 12 meters, reaching its current height of 48 meters, to avoid the risk of collapse. This lean gives it a particular charm and distinguishes it from the other medieval towers of Bologna. The Tower of Garisenda is not only an example of medieval architecture, but has also entered the collective imagination thanks to literature. Dante Alighieri mentioned the tower in the XXXI canto of the “Divine Comedy”, using its lean as a metaphor to describe the giant Antaeus bending over him and Virgil. This literary reference has helped make Garisenda a cultural icon, recognized not only for its architecture but also for its symbolic significance. Over the centuries, the Tower of Garisenda has undergone various restoration and consolidation interventions. In the 19th century, during a period of urban renewal, the surrounding buildings that obscured its base were demolished, including a small church dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie. This intervention restored the tower’s visibility and importance in the urban context. Today, the Tower of Garisenda is subject to constant monitoring to ensure its stability. The beginning of the 20th century saw the start of in-depth studies on the tower’s condition, entrusted to Professor Francesco Cavani. These studies led to the creation of modern monitoring systems to keep track of the tower’s oscillations and structural conditions. Collaboration with the University of Bologna and the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology has allowed the development of advanced techniques to preserve this valuable historical monument. The tower is not accessible inside, but its charm remains intact. Its imposing and leaning presence attracts the attention of anyone visiting Bologna, making it one of the most photographed and admired places in the city. The Tower of Garisenda is not only an architectural symbol, but also a silent witness to the history and transformations of Bologna over the centuries. From an artistic point of view, the Tower of Garisenda has inspired artists and writers for centuries. In addition to Dante, the poet Giosuè Carducci also dedicated verses to the tower, further strengthening its status as a cultural icon. Its lean, proportions, and history make it a fascinating subject for anyone interested in art and architecture.