A model of medieval Bologna, Italy in 1200. At that time, the city had around 180 independent towers used as residences, shops, prisons etc. Mostly made out of selenite, most towers collapsed over time. Today, only two remain.
It’s been a long time since I’ve studied Italian history, but from what I recall, in Florence at the later end of Medici rule, maximum tower heights were mandated, since the purpose of fortified towers in the cities throughout Italy was defence from other families and political groups (Guelfs or Ghibellines) within the city, and most of the towers in Florence at that time were torn down (the Medicis didn’t want the towers used against them). I wonder if something similar happened in Bologna. Many towers still stand in San Gimignano, Tuscany, if you want to see what a city crowded with medieval towers looks like.
Audbolsays
Trying to get some more information about the interiors of the towers. Does anyone have any good info or even a good in depth documentary?
MEdsurvivorsays
…..Higher and grander than it’s leaning neighbor….
v8powerage says
Medieval manhattan
Flep54 says
Pretty good picture for 1200
YmpetreDreamer says
It’s been a long time since I’ve studied Italian history, but from what I recall, in Florence at the later end of Medici rule, maximum tower heights were mandated, since the purpose of fortified towers in the cities throughout Italy was defence from other families and political groups (Guelfs or Ghibellines) within the city, and most of the towers in Florence at that time were torn down (the Medicis didn’t want the towers used against them). I wonder if something similar happened in Bologna. Many towers still stand in San Gimignano, Tuscany, if you want to see what a city crowded with medieval towers looks like.
Audbol says
Trying to get some more information about the interiors of the towers. Does anyone have any good info or even a good in depth documentary?
MEdsurvivor says
…..Higher and grander than it’s leaning neighbor….
keesbeemsterkaas says
In the town of San Giminiano 14 of these towers are still standing today. It has a cool skyline
langstoned says
Selenite? Is that a kind of brick in addition to woowoo crystal?
onishchukd5 says
I bet earthquakes sucked in that city.
sghetty says
The star and crescent shall not be worn by every man