The Two 'Moors'
Since the 18th century, the bronze bell-jacks, who strike the hours at the top of the Torre dell'Orologio, have been known as the Two Moors, on account of the darkening of the metal over time. The bell-jacks were originally called li doi ziganti (the two giants), on account of their large size (2.6 metres/8.5 feet high).
The figures, who sport short woollen tunics, are, in fact, two shepherds, one old and bearded, the other young and clean-shaven. It is thought that the two figures, who symbolise the passing of time, were cast by Sigismondo I Alberghetti in 1497/8. |