Torre della Ghirlandina

The Ghirlandina is the bell tower of Modena Cathedral, a Romanesque and Gothic campanile begun in the twelfth century and raised to about 87 metres over later phases. Named for the wrought-iron garlands around its spire, it leans slightly and served as both a belfry and a civic watchtower for the medieval commune. Visitors climb to viewing levels overlooking the cathedral, the market square and the surrounding Emilian plain. The tower, cathedral and adjacent square together form a UNESCO World Heritage site.