Asinelli tower, Medieval tower in Bologna, Italy
The Asinelli is a medieval structure in Bologna reaching just over 97 meters (318 feet), making it the tallest tower of its kind in Italy. The construction leans slightly to one side and rises from the historic city center with a narrow footprint and massive brick walls.
Construction began around 1150 and was commissioned by a wealthy family seeking to solidify their position in the city. During medieval times the structure served as a defensive post and later as a landmark for travelers approaching the city.
The name comes from the family who commissioned the construction in the 12th century, documenting their social rise. Today visitors climb the narrow spiral staircase and experience how the observation platform opens up the entire city panorama with its tiled roofs.
The spiral staircase leads up 498 steps to the upper platform and requires a certain level of physical fitness. From the top the view extends across the rooftops to the Apennines, with early mornings or late afternoons offering quieter conditions.
In the 17th and 18th centuries researchers used the height to conduct falling experiments and demonstrate Earth's rotation. The tilt measures about four degrees and is clearly visible from the base when looking along the outer wall.
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