The Towers of Bologna, medieval structures with military and noble functions, are one of the most characteristic traits of Bologna.

Between the twelfth and thirteenth centuries the number of towers erected in the city was very large: there were up to 100 towers. Today there are 24 survivors, the two most famous towers are: Tower Asinelli and Tower of the Garisenda.

The reasons why many towers were built are not yet clear but it is thought that the wealthiest families in the city of Bologna used them as an instrument of aggression and/or defense and as a symbol of power for the struggle for pro-imperial, pro-papal investiture.