Le Due Torri (The Two Towers, Tolkien Fans!) are unmistakeable landmarks in Bologna's thriving University district. The taller of the two Torre degli Asinelli stands 97.6m tall and leans 1.3m off verical. Climbing it is not for the faint hearted (498 steps) but at the moment like so many other landmarks in Bologna, it is closed for restoration. BAH!

While having a cappucino in a neighbouring cafe, I met an american studying transport engineering at Bologna's famous university. He told me the local lore of the towers and why most students steer well clear of the towers. For; if a student climbs Asinelli during their studies they will never graduate! Hah, Stupid italians.

The second of the towers is Torre Garisenda is completey out of bounds to the public; standing 48m tall with a lean of a ridiculous 3.2 off vertical.

Just down the road from the towers is the Chiesa di San Giacomo Maggiore the highlight of which is the Bentovoglio chapel and the noteworthy collection of paintings and sculptures.

Across the road is the grandiose Teatro Communale, home of Bologna's resident Opera and Ballet companies - it turns out that Puccini's Turandot is being produced in Bologna from the 19th of January - I will have to see if I can make it back!