03 Jun Towers of Asinelli and Garisenda
Climbing to the top of the Asinelli Tower proved to be even more frightening than climbing to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome. In the dome, there is a sense of security and reassurance that the building has been standing for so long; however, this is not the case for the Asinelli Tower. The journey to to top of the tower seemed to go on for a long time as we slowly made our way up the worn, wooden stairs. There were a few landings to take breaks on the climb, but our excitement to reach the top caused us to make it to the top relatively quickly. Once we reached the top of the tower, the view really was gorgeous. Looking out of the barred windows over the city of Bologna, you can see how large the city really is despite its small, familial feel. Overlooking the city, your eyes are greeted with the vibrant burnt orange colors of the rooftops and the yellows, tans, oranges, reds, and pinks of the buildings. Peeking out here and there are green trees denoting Bologna’s beautiful parks. The Asinelli Tower appears to be the tallest tower in the city, as Bologna’s “skyscrapers” seemed to be below it. Unfortunately, once we decided to descend the tower, terror quickly set in.
Descending the tower proved to be even more frightening than climbing it, because you are looking down at these very worn, wooden stairs and the plunging darkness the entire time you slowly stumble down them. I gripped the railings on each side of the staircase anytime I could, trying not to picture myself falling to my death with every step. This descent seemed to be never-ending as we slowly made our way down each staircase. The view from above was absolutely beautiful and well worth the climb, but the descent was frightening–maybe borderline terrifying. For three euros and a gorgeous view, the climb and descent were well worth it, but be prepared to be a little scared if you have any fear of heights, or rickety, wooden stairs. You are also able to see Garisenda Tower hidden far below in the shadow of Asinelli Tower, which is an impressive site.
Dante’s belief that the towers were just a stupid way for leaders to prove their wealth and power proves to be true as the towers do not seem to serve any true purpose. The lookout area was not very large, so it does not seem likely that each leader would have spent much time atop his tower. Currently, the towers serve as a tourist attraction and provide a beautiful view of Bologna, as well as a possibility for a religious experience as you descend the rickety stairs into the darkness, but besides this, Dante seems right in his view of the towers. If you ever get a chance, climb Asinelli Tower and make sure you have your camera with you, because the view really is spectacular, but if you’re too afraid that is understandable…look at other people’s pictures later.
