~Koschei~
Tower of Bologna, 1135
The city of Bologna in Northern Italy is most famously known for its ancient university, however there is also one other notable feature, its towers. During the 12th and 13th centuries, the noble families of Bologna constructed large, fortified towers throughout the city. Some of these towers were as tall as 318 feet in height, or 97 meters. The estimates vary on the number of towers that were once in the city with some estimates ranging from 100 to 200.
The reasons for why these towers were built are not clear, but one reason is likely for defensive purposes. Northern Italy during the medieval period was divided between many city states that were engaged in fierce rivalries between noble families, other cities, the Holy Roman Emperor, or the Pope. The most notable example was the war between the Pro-Pope Guelphs and Pro-Emperor Ghibellines from 1125-1392 as a result of the Investiture Controversy. Another possible reason is that it was a way for the noble families of the city to show off their wealth.
Over time many towers collapsed or were demolished to avoid the former or to make room for new buildings. Today there are just two towers left in Bologna known as the Asinelli tower and Garisenda tower.
My entry to the CCCs "Small Castle" Category.
Tower of Bologna, 1135
The city of Bologna in Northern Italy is most famously known for its ancient university, however there is also one other notable feature, its towers. During the 12th and 13th centuries, the noble families of Bologna constructed large, fortified towers throughout the city. Some of these towers were as tall as 318 feet in height, or 97 meters. The estimates vary on the number of towers that were once in the city with some estimates ranging from 100 to 200.
The reasons for why these towers were built are not clear, but one reason is likely for defensive purposes. Northern Italy during the medieval period was divided between many city states that were engaged in fierce rivalries between noble families, other cities, the Holy Roman Emperor, or the Pope. The most notable example was the war between the Pro-Pope Guelphs and Pro-Emperor Ghibellines from 1125-1392 as a result of the Investiture Controversy. Another possible reason is that it was a way for the noble families of the city to show off their wealth.
Over time many towers collapsed or were demolished to avoid the former or to make room for new buildings. Today there are just two towers left in Bologna known as the Asinelli tower and Garisenda tower.
My entry to the CCCs "Small Castle" Category.