Hundreds of high-rising towers stood against the sky overlooking a sea of red-tiled rooftops.
These towers were status symbols built by the citys rich families to demonstrate their power and importance.
Between the 12th and the 13th century, Bologna had as many as 180 towers, possibly more.
In the 13th century, many towers were taken down or demolished, and others simply collapsed.
A computer generated 3D model of mediaeval Bologna.
Photo credit:www.cineca.it
No more than twenty towers remain today in Bologna.
Both towers are named after the family names of their respective families.
The Asinelli Tower, on the other hand, had its height extended.
The footbridge was destroyed during a fire in 1398.
Another depiction of what Bologna might have looked like in medieval days.
Photo credit:Toni Pecoraro/Wikimedia
Photo credit:Melanie/Flickr
Inside the Asinelli Tower.
Photo credit:kyle anthony/Flickr
View of Garisenda Tower from the Asinelli Tower.
Photo credit:Michelle Lee/Flickr
View from the Asinelli tower.
Photo credit:anthony rue/Flickr
The two towers Garisenda (L) and Asinelli (R).
Photo credit:Rob Oo/Flickr
Another artwork depicting mediaeval Bolognas skyline.
