The Two Towers of Bologna

Anyone able to spend the day in Bologna simply must visit the unusual structures which have come to represent the city in many people’s eyes, the Two Towers of Bologna. The Towers of Bologna are part of a group of medieval structures at a crossroads between what were once the five gates to the city. These improbable looking constructions both lean as precariously as the counterpart in Pisa, having been the victims of lightning strikes, fires and collapses since their original construction in around 1110.  Named Asinelli and Garisendi after the families reputed to have been responsible for their construction, the amazing angles and overhangs will make for one of the more unusual and memorable sights during your visit to Bologna.

Through the centuries the two spires have been used variously as family homes, prisons, fortresses, and even as a lookout post during the Second World War.  If you’re feeling brave, you might even choose to climb the rickety spiral staircases that will carry you to the top of each of these amazing towers, where the rewards are undeniable – An unrivalled set of views of the city of Bologna and its beautiful surroundings.

Basilica of San Petronio

Even in a city as beautiful and culturally rich as Bologna, the Basilica of San Petronio is a very special destination for any visitor, whether you arrive at one of Bologna’s stations or in your hire car.  Dominating the beautiful Piazza Maggiore, this gigantic structure is the fifth largest church in the world, stretching for 132 meters in length and 60 in width, while the interior vault reaches 45 meters inside and 51 meters in the facade.

Dedicated to Bologna’s patron saint, Saint Petronius, construction of the basilica was begun in 1390 and in some senses this stunning church has never been completed – The main facade at the front of the building remains unfinished despite proposals and commissions by some of Italy’s leading architects through the centuries.

Once inside you’re bound to be impressed by the unusually colourful, elaborate and vibrant interior decoration and stained glasswork.  And if all that isn’t enough, then as you leave you can refer to the world’s largest sundial, erected in 1655, for how long is left until dinner in one of Bologna’s countless fine restaurants.