Ghirlandina Tower
Torre della Ghirlandina
A Romanesque bell tower about 86 m tall beside Modena Cathedral. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the city, it offers views over the red-roofed old town from the top.
Construction of the Ghirlandina Tower began in the 12th century. Its Gothic octagonal spire is shaped like a garland, which gives the tower its name. It is Modena’s city landmark and, along with the cathedral and Piazza Grande, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The climb has about 200 steps. Halfway up is the Sala della Secchia, which holds a replica of the wooden bucket said to have sparked the war between Modena and Bologna. From the top, you can see the old town and the distant Apennines. The tower is usually open only on weekends and public holidays and requires a ticket, and a combined ticket with the Cathedral Museum is available.
Opening hours
Weekends and holidays approx. 10:00–13:00 and 14:30–18:00 (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Modena Cathedral & Piazza Grande
- Palazzo Comunale, Modena
- Mercato Albinelli
- Ducal Palace of Modena
- Teatro Comunale Luciano Pavarotti
- Osteria Francescana
- Galleria Estense (Palazzo dei Musei)
- Enzo Ferrari Museum, Modena