Italy's 'Leaning Tower' Sealed Amidst Fear Of Collapse

Garisenda, the leaning tower of Bologna, Italy, is now on the verge of collapse. Authorities have shut off the mediaeval tower in Italy due to excessive leaning. At a height of 150 ft, this 1000-year-old tower has been leaning at a four-degree angle since the 14th century. The famous Leaning Tower of Pisa leans at a 5-degree angle.

The Two Towers

The Garisenda and Asinelli towers, located in the heart of Bologna, have both been symbols of the city for centuries, adorning the Bologna skyline. Built during the Middle Ages, the towers had a military function for defence and signalling. The Asinelli Tower, standing at a height of around 97 metres, was built by the Asinelli family between 1109 and 1119 and comprises 498 steps inside that lead to the top, offering spectacular views of the city.

Torre Garisenda was built around the same time as the Asinelli Tower but is shorter than the other, standing at 47 metres. The height was kept as such due to fear of it collapsing during the 14th century.   

The Leaning Tower

The Garisenda Tower has been tilted at a four-degree angle for centuries now, leading to the nickname, 'leaning tower'. Attempts at restoring the tower have been made throughout the years without compromising the structural identity of the edifice. However, the tilt has now reached a critical point, compelling the authorities to seal if off. 

The tower was first closed in October after multiple inspections revealed that the materials which make up the structure's base were in a state of decay, making it more susceptible to an eventual collapse. A scientific committee had been monitoring the site since 2019 and had installed sensors to track the movements of the tower, the readings on which indicated a cause for concern in October 2023. City officials have now implemented a civil protection plan to manage the risk of sudden caving in of the tower.

New Action Plan

To minimise the potential damage to surrounding structures and to contain debris in case there is a collapse, a five-metre (16ft) high metal barrier is going to be erected around the tower. 

The statement from the city council read, "A protective cordon will be erected to contain debris resulting from a possible collapse, to reduce the vulnerability of surrounding buildings and the exposure to the population, as well as blocking access to the off-limits areas."

The committee, which has been monitoring the tower, released warnings highlighting potential cracks and a crushing compression in the base, which is accelerated and unexpected.