Italy faces another precarious leaning tower situation with Bologna’s Torre Garisenda, a 12th-century structure standing at 148 feet with a four-degree tilt.
Concerns about its stability escalated recently, earning it a ‘high risk’ label for potential collapse, as reported by CNN.
The tower, a cherished local icon, sits adjacent to the taller Asinelli Tower, collectively known as the two towers.
Bologna city officials have initiated a $20M project this week to stabilize Torre Garisenda in response to the looming threat. They have borrowed equipment, including scaffolding and pylons, from the renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa for the endeavour.
The intricate modification process, expected to take six months, aims to secure the tower’s structure and prevent any imminent collapse.
Mayor Matteo Lepore outlined the plan, emphasizing the use of supports and pulley systems to reinforce the tower’s midsection. This initial phase will be followed by extensive masonry work to enhance its stability further.
Lepore also mentioned future restoration efforts scheduled for 2025 and 2026 to ensure the tower’s long-term preservation.
Historically, the two towers served dual purposes in the Middle Ages, functioning as military lookout points for signalling and defending the city while symbolizing wealth and prestige.
Today, they remain significant landmarks and tourist attractions in Bologna, drawing visitors worldwide.
The Torre Garisenda, with its noticeable tilt, contributes to Italy’s architectural fascination, similar to the renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa.
However, unlike the iconic tower, Torre Garisenda faces real concerns about its structural stability and requires urgent intervention to ensure its preservation for the future.
As Bologna navigates the delicate balance between preserving its historical heritage and ensuring public safety, the stabilization efforts for Torre Garisenda underscore the city’s commitment to protecting its architectural treasures.
Authorities aim to preserve the tower’s cultural significance and ensure its security for future generations through meticulous planning and execution.
