ITALY - Europe by Eurail 2015: Touring Europe by Train - page 347

trated in its two enjoining squares, the Piazza Maggiore and the Piazza del Net-
tuno. Combined with the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, the heart of Bologna even
today reflects its Renaissance greatness.
Neptune's Fountain (Fontana del Nettuno) is the focal point of its piazza. Com-
pleted in 1566, it aptly depicts Bologna's vigorous nature. Saint Petronius Basilica,
facing the Piazza Maggiore, was begun in 1390 but remains unfinished even today.
The Piazza Ravegnana contains not just one leaning tower but two. The taller,
built by the Asinelli family between 1109 and 1119, stands 330 feet with a tilt ex-
ceeding 7½ feet. The other, the Garisenda Tower, is only 165 feet high, but it leans
out 10 feet over its foundation. If you're in good physical condition and feel like
climbing 498 steps, there's a fine view from the top of the Asinelli Tower.
And if you would like to experience more of the “culta Bononia” (the Latin name
for Bologna), call the tourist office for the Not Just for the Weekend brochure. Rates
and special offers on more than 50 hotels and inns, city and “pilgrim” tours; events
year-round are also listed.