[MR] BBC & Wikipedia: Garisenda Tower's Dangerous Lean

[Garth Groff and Sally Sanford]

Noble Friends,

Pisa may be famous for its leaning tower, but the proud citizens of Bologna
claim two leaning towers of their own: Garisenda Tower and the adjacent
Asinelli Tower. In fact, Garisenda Tower leans so far that it is now in
danger of collapse.

The origin of the two towers is a bit murky, but they both appear to date
to the 12th century and are named for the families that built, or at least,
owned them. Asinelli Tower is taller and more ornate, being 319 feet tall
and topped by a battlement. The rather austere Garisenda Tower was
originally 200 feet tall, but was lowered to 157 feet in the 14th century
when it was already showing signs of instability. The two towers have both
played a part in early astronomical experiments, and are mentioned in
Dante's works.

A few days ago, monitors showed Garisenda Tower was becoming increasingly
unstable. The tower has now been closed, and a barrier wall to contain any
falling rubble will be erected. Efforts are underway to raise funds for a
major stabilization and repair project. Asinelli Tower remains open to the
public.

History of the two towers is found at
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Two_Towers,_Bologna .

More details about Garisenda Tower's problems are at
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-67599067 .

Yours Aye,


Mungo Napier, Laird of Mallard Lodge  🦆
Continuing a quest to keep Merry Rose relevant and in business.