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Torre Galluzzi: A Medieval Sentinel of Bologna

Explore Torre Galluzzi, a striking medieval tower in Bologna's heart, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

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Torre Galluzzi, a well-preserved medieval tower in Bologna, stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Built in 1257 by the Galluzzi family, it offers a glimpse into the past with its robust stone structure and Gothic architectural details. Today, shops and restaurants occupy the tower's interior and surrounding courtyard, inviting exploration and appreciation.

A brief summary to Torre Galluzzi

Local tips

  • Visit the bookstore inside the tower to see the original walls and learn more about its history.
  • Explore the charming Galluzzi courtyard, filled with shops and restaurants offering local cuisine.
  • Walk around the nearby Piazza Maggiore and Piazza Galvani to experience the vibrant heart of Bologna.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Torre Galluzzi is located in the heart of Bologna, just a short walk from Piazza Maggiore. From the Piazza, walk east towards Via D'Azeglio. Corte de Galluzzi, where the tower is located, will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and is free.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus stops are along Via Farini or Piazza Galvani. From Bologna Centrale train station, take bus lines 11, 27, or 29B to these stops. From either stop, it's a short walk to Corte de Galluzzi. A single bus ticket costs €2.30 if purchased in advance or €2.50 if purchased on the bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bologna. A taxi from Bologna Centrale train station to Torre Galluzzi will cost approximately €11, with a base fare of €5 plus €1.20 per kilometer. Note that taxis may not be able to access Piazza Maggiore on weekends and holidays.

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Discover more about Torre Galluzzi

Torre Galluzzi, rising approximately 31 meters high, is one of Bologna's few remaining medieval towers, a silent witness to centuries of Bolognese history. Constructed in 1257 by the Guelph family of Galluzzi, the tower and its adjacent courtyard served as a stronghold and symbol of their power. The Galluzzi family, avid supporters of the Pope, used the tower to keep watch over the surrounding area, particularly to guard against their Ghibelline rivals, the Carbonesi family. Originally, the tower's entrance was about 10 meters above ground level, accessible only by a retractable wooden bridge connecting it to the family's residences. This design ensured a secure refuge in times of conflict. The tower's walls, remarkably thick at over 3 meters at the base, further attest to its defensive purpose. The pointed arch of the entrance, visible from the outside, indicates that the tower is of more recent construction compared to other towers in the city. Today, the ground floor of Torre Galluzzi houses a bookstore, where visitors can admire the restored original walls. The courtyard is surrounded by shops and restaurants, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Just a short walk away are Piazza Maggiore, Piazza Galvani, and Via D'Azeglio, making Torre Galluzzi a central point for exploring Bologna's historical and cultural attractions. The tower is also linked to a legend of love and death involving the Galluzzi and Catalani families, symbolizing the infighting between the Guelphs and Ghibellines in the 13th century. The story tells of a young member of the Catalani family who sought to impress Virginia Galluzzi by raising his family's tower, leading to a secret marriage and tragic end.

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