The tilted tower in Bologna has been closed off due to concerns about it potentially falling down. This medieval tower in the Italian city tilts as much as the renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa and there are worries that it might topple over.
Officials have started building a 16-foot tall barrier around the 12th Century Garisenda Tower to keep any falling debris contained if it collapses.
The tower, which stands at a height of 47m (154ft), leans at an angle of four degrees. Observations have identified changes in the direction of its inclination.
The municipal committee stated that the circumstances were "extremely severe".
The Garisenda Tower is one of the two towers that are prominent in Bologna's skyline. Its counterpart, the Asinelli Tower, stands roughly double the height, and it also tilts, albeit less strikingly. Usually, it is accessible for tourists to ascend.
The buildings were constructed from 1109 to 1119. However, the Garisenda's height was decreased in the 14th century due to the onset of a tilt. This tower gets a mention in Dante's The Divine Comedy, finished in 1321.
The location was initially shut down in October when detectors noticed alterations in the Garisenda's lean and evaluations showed a decline in the condition of the materials forming its foundation.
The council has initiated what they refer to as a civil protection scheme to safeguard the tower, stating that the work now underway marks the beginning of its safety measures.
The report mentioned that the barrier would not only hold debris, but it would also safeguard nearby structures and individuals should a collapse occur. The report also stated that metal nets designed to catch falling rocks would be set up around the tower.
The building of the barrier is projected to be finished at the start of next year. However, the tower and the plaza underneath it will likely stay shut for several years as restoration efforts take place.
The city predicts the standalone expense for the barrier will be €4.3m (£3.7m) and has initiated a crowdfunding campaign to finance the repair work.
The initiative was dubbed as an "exceptional undertaking" that would necessitate "dedication from the whole city and from global enthusiasts of Bologna and one of its significant icons".
Associated Subjects
Further details on this narrative
The tilt of the Leaning Tower has decreased following restoration efforts.
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