Torre del Mangia, Medieval tower in Siena, Italy
The Torre del Mangia rises 102 meters above Piazza del Campo with thick red brick walls and a white travertine summit section adjacent to Palazzo Pubblico. The structure narrows slightly toward the top, where a stone crown surrounds the viewing platform.
Construction of the tower occurred between 1338 and 1348 under the direction of brothers Muccio and Francesco Di Rinaldo from Perugia, with the summit designed by Lippo Memmi. The commune commissioned the project to demonstrate the power of civil government.
The name originates from Giovanni di Balduccio, the first bell ringer nicknamed Mangiaguadagni, who gained notice for spending his earnings rapidly on food and drink. His habits became so well known that the tower carries his nickname to this day.
Visitors must climb 400 steps through narrow passages to reach the top, with seasonal opening hours from 10 AM to 4 PM in winter and until 7 PM in summer. The ascent takes about 20 minutes and requires moderate physical fitness.
The tower height matches the Siena Cathedral to demonstrate the equal authority between civil administration and religious power in medieval Siena. This deliberate choice reflects the city government's desire to show its independence.
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