Geotechnical modelling for the structural assessment of the Two Towers in Bologna (Italy)
Geotechnical modelling for the structural assessment of the Two Towers in Bologna (Italy)
The Two Towers of Bologna, Garisenda and Asinelli, are iconic medieval structures and cultural landmarks standing in close proximity in the historic centre of the city. Their historical and architectural value makes their preservation a matter of significant public and scientific interest. In particular, the Garisenda tower has long been the subject of debate due to its pronounced inclination, progressive deformation, and associated structural vulnerabilities. To better understand the causes of its current critical condition and to support future preservation and mitigation strategies, an extensive geological and geotechnical investigation campaign was undertaken in 2016. The investigation included several in-situ tests (continuous corings, CPTUs, DMTs, a downhole test), laboratory analyses and a sedimentological study of the alluvial subsoil, together with the installation of an advanced monitoring system. The investigation revealed a complex alternation of desiccated and microstructured soil horizons, characterised by significant vertical and lateral variability of geomechanical properties. These findings were incorporated into the stratigraphic and geotechnical model developed for the subsequent soil-structure interaction analysis. A finite element model was developed to assess the stress distribution beneath the foundations of both towers and to simulate the mechanical response of the coupled soil-foundation system. The aim was to inform potential stabilisation efforts and long-term preservation strategies, with particular focus on the Garisenda tower.
Ilaria Bertolini; Michela Marchi; A. Mentani; Guido Gottardi
4th International Symposium on the Preservation of Monuments and Historic Sites
Materials, Monitoring and Geotechnical Investigation Methods
https://doi.org/10.53243/tc301-2026-40