Torrazzo of Cremona

The Torrazzo of Cremona, known locally as Torrazzo di Cremona, is an iconic symbol of the city of Cremona in Italy. Standing proudly next to the Cremona Cathedral, this medieval brick bell tower is one of the tallest in Europe, reaching an impressive height of 112.54 meters. The Torrazzo is a marvel of medieval engineering, constructed with a double shell – essentially two towers nested within each other, with a staircase of 502 steps winding its way up through the space between them.

The History of the Torrazzo of Cremona

The origins of the Torrazzo are shrouded in the mists of time, with popular tradition suggesting its initial construction began as early as 754 AD. However, archaeological excavations conducted in the early 1980s revealed structures beneath the tower, indicating it may have been built over an ancient cemetery or Roman structures. The construction of the tower as it stands today can be divided into four distinct phases. The first phase, dating back to the third decade of the 13th century, saw the construction up to the third cornice. The second phase, from 1250 to 1267, extended the tower to the cornice below the quadrifora. The third phase, around 1284, connected the previous work to the final phase, which included the marble spire completed by 1309.

The Astronomical Clock

One of the Torrazzo's most fascinating features is its astronomical clock, housed on the fourth floor. This clock, with a dial measuring 8.20 meters in diameter (8.40 meters including the copper frame), is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Crafted by the Cremonese clockmakers Francesco and Giovan Battista Divizioli between 1583 and 1588, the clock was later restored by Giacomo Guerrini in 1786. Entirely mechanical and requiring daily winding, the clock is a masterpiece of Renaissance craftsmanship. It features a celestial map with zodiac constellations traversed by the Sun and the Moon. The clock's five hands (technically four, as one is doubled) can indicate various astronomical phenomena, including lunar phases, solstices and equinoxes, the Sun's entry into constellations, the position of lunar nodes, and eclipses.

The Bells of the Torrazzo

The Torrazzo houses seven bells, tuned to a major scale in A-flat, all cast in 1744 by the Milanese founder Bartolomeo Bozzi. Additionally, there is an eighth bell known as the hour bell, cast in 1581, which strikes the note D-flat. These bells, although rarely rung in motion today, add to the historical and cultural richness of the tower.

The Vertical Museum

Since November 2018, the Torrazzo has been home to the Vertical Museum, a unique attraction dedicated to the measurement of time. This museum offers visitors an immersive experience, taking them through the history and science of timekeeping as they ascend the tower. The museum's exhibits include ancient timepieces, sundials, and explanations of the astronomical clock's workings, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in horology and the passage of time.

Visiting the Torrazzo of Cremona

A visit to the Torrazzo is an unforgettable experience. As you climb the 502 steps to the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Cremona and the surrounding countryside. The journey up the tower also offers a unique perspective on the architectural ingenuity of medieval builders, with the double shell construction providing a fascinating glimpse into the past.

At the base of the tower, a plaque once indicated the height of the Torrazzo as 122.217 meters, a figure that included a technical zero point located ten meters below the highest point of the square on which the tower stands. This measurement was later corrected to the current height of 112.54 meters by the Polytechnic University of Milan.

Conclusion

The Torrazzo of Cremona is more than just a bell tower; it is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Its towering presence, intricate astronomical clock, and melodious bells make it a must-see attraction for visitors to Cremona. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of architecture, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Torrazzo offers something for everyone. So, lace up your walking shoes, prepare for a climb, and get ready to explore one of Italy's most remarkable medieval towers.