Torre della Ghirlandina, Bell tower in Modena, Italy
Torre della Ghirlandina is a Romanesque bell tower in Modena that stands 89.32 meters tall beside the cathedral. The structure is formed by several levels that end in an octagonal spire, with outer walls built from pale ashlar blocks.
Work on the tower began in 1150 as part of the Modena Cathedral complex and the original name was Torre di San Geminiano. Over the centuries the structure received its current name and was extended several times, with the upper levels added later on.
The name Ghirlandina comes from the Italian word for garland, referring to the marble railings that curve around the top like flower wreaths. Visitors notice the narrow openings along the middle floors that allow glimpses into the stone shaft inside.
The Sala della Secchia is located on one of the middle floors and contains frescoes from the 15th century along with the city treasury. The climb involves steep stone stairs that require physical effort, but at the top you find views over the rooftops of the old town.
Five Renaissance bells hang in the upper part and are tuned in C major, so they produce harmonious melodies together. During restoration between 2007 and 2011, a fabric designed by sculptor Mimmo Paladino wrapped the scaffolding and turned the building site itself into a work of art.
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