Overview
The 200 symbolic steps of Modena
It is the symbol of Modena, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the elegant Piazza Grande, dominating it from a height of 86 metres: we are talking about the Ghirlandina, the Civic Tower that for centuries, with the sound of its bells, has marked the hours for the city.
Ghirlandina Tower has stood beside the apse of Modena Cathedral since the 14th century, although its construction likely began at least two centuries earlier. The local nickname for the Civic Tower is linked to the double circle of balustrades crowning the spire, which you can admire from every corner of the historic centre.
The imposing Ghirlandina is open to visitors and accessible by walking up the 200 steps to the top, where you can enjoy unique views of Emilia-Romagna. Along the uphill path, on the fifth floor, you come to the Stanza dei Torresani, the former residence of the keepers of the tower, where you can admire important capitals of mysterious origin.
