The iconic Garisenda Tower in Bologna, known for its centuries-old lean, is facing a precarious situation as experts have issued an “engineering code red” due to anomalous movements detected last year. The 157-foot tower, which has endured insults, earthquakes, and urbanization over the years, is now at risk of tumbling.
To safeguard the tower, experts have proposed a solution inspired by the famous leaning tower in Pisa. The city of Bologna plans to adopt a temporary system of pylons and cables to stabilize the Garisenda and prevent further tilting. The innovative approach aims to exert a counterforce to keep the tower from tipping dangerously.
Once the stabilization measures are in place, work will begin on shoring up the tower’s foundation and restoring its upper parts to ensure long-term stability. The city’s mayor, Matteo Lepore, emphasized the need to secure the situation quickly to prevent further deterioration.
The community has shown resilience in the face of the tower’s instability, with locals expressing confidence in its ability to withstand challenges. A fundraising campaign has been launched to support the restoration efforts, with contributions from the city, Italy’s culture ministry, and the regional government.
Despite concerns about the tower’s stability, the local community remains optimistic about its future. With a combination of modern engineering techniques and historical preservation efforts, the Garisenda Tower is poised to stand tall for generations to come.
