This 52-metre tower rises up in Bergamo's old town offering a strategic view across the town and the surrounding area. Apparently, it was originally 64 metres high but the top few metres were removed in the 19th century due to the risk of collapse.
The name 'Gombito' derives from the location of the tower 'compitum' (crossing), on the intersection of the two main roads in any Roman settlement, the cardo and decumano (nowadays the Vian San Lorenzo and Via Gombito). Built in the 12th century, it still retains its medieval defensive style.
The tower had an important role in the fights between the guelfi and ghibellini in Bergamo during the 12th and 13th centuries, the former in favour of the Pope and owners of the tower, while the latter were on the emperor's side.
It still boasts a distinctive Romanesque style, although in the 16th century it was turned into a commercial establishment and two shops were added on each side. In 1877, it was bequeathed to the town of Bergamo and extensively renovated. From its terrace, you have a 360 degrees view of the city, its surrounding plains and hills and, on clear days, you can even see Milan and the Alps.
