Due Torri (Two Towers: Asinelli and Garisenda), Bologna (must see)

Dominating the scene at Ravegnana Gate Square, where the main gate of the Roman walls once stood, are the iconic Two Towers, emblematic of Bologna's medieval past when the city boasted around 120 such structures. Dating back to the 12th century, these likely served as both lookout points and symbols of prestige. Legend has it that the Asinelli and Garisenda families, engaged in a fierce competition to erect the tallest and most magnificent tower in the city.

Approach the base of the taller structure and enter through the ground-floor portal to begin your climb. Brave the ascent to the top of the Asinelli Tower, rising over 97 meters (or 318 feet) high. Though the climb is steep, navigating a narrow spiral staircase of nearly 500 steps, the reward is well worth the effort. From the summit, you can spot other surviving medieval towers and, weather permitting, catch a glimpse of the Alpine foothills beyond Verona.

Once back down in the square, stroll toward the northern side of the square to look at the shorter neighbor, the Garisenda Tower. Originally reaching 60 meters, it was truncated by 12 meters in the mid-14th century due to unstable foundations; however, from certain angles, the two towers appear to be of equal height. Like many of Bologna's towers, both the Two Towers have a noticeable tilt: Garisenda tilts 3.33 meters northeast, while Asinelli leans 2.23 meters westward.

Dante Alighieri, who spent time in Bologna as a student in the late 13th century, was so captivated by the leaning Garisenda that he later referenced it in Canto XXXI of The Inferno, comparing its dramatic tilt to the bent silhouette of the giant Antaeus looming over the depths of hell.

While still facing the square's northern side, turn south-east and go around the corner on Maggiore Street to observe the facade of 17th-century Saint Bartholomew's Church, featuring a Renaissance portico. Inside, seek out Francesco Albani's "Annunciation" in the fourth chapel of the south aisle, and Guido Reni's small "Madonna with Child" in the north transept.