The Two Towers

After a few

My last visit to Bologna was in 1979 and I remember it as an attractive city then and it hasn't changed much since then. The most appealing thing about Bologna is that is has nothing important to see or do so it attracts very few tourists. However, it is a great base to visit northern Italy with Florence, Venice, Parma, Modena, Ravenna, Ferrara and Verona all easily accessible by train and it is much less expensive to stay here.
 Best  of all Bologna is famous for its food (especially spaghetti bolognaise which is known locally as ragu). Every where there are small local restaurants many attached to delicatessens so you can chose the food you want to eat. Unlike the more touristy places, the locals are friendly and it is easy to settle for a night out.

That said it does have two outstanding medieval towers. Built in the 11th century, these towers were built to protect individual families during times of conflict. Common in most Italian town, most of the towers have been long since pulled down. In Bologna only 20 out of the original 160 towers survive, two of which have been become symbols of this city. The tallest stands 100 metres and is still in good condition 1000 years later. Right next door, a much shorter tower has a serious lean, though apparently is in no danger of falling down. Its a bit of climb up the wooden stairs but the view from the top is worth it.

 

The leaning tower is right below