At the two ends of the square stands two edifices, of greater height than breadth, built of a mixture of granite and schist.

These are the _Towers_ of the two opposing families, the Barricini and the della Rebbia.

Their architecture is exactly alike, their height is similar, and it is quite evident that the rivalry of the two families has never been absolutely decided by any stroke of fortune in favor of either.
It may perhaps be well to explain what should be understood by this word, "Tower." It is a square building, some forty feet in height, which in any other country would be simply described as a pigeon-house.

A narrow entrance-door, eight feet above the level of the ground, is reached by a very steep flight of steps.

Above the door is a window, in front of which runs a sort of balcony, the floor of which is pierced with openings, like a machicolation, through which the inhabitants may destroy an unwelcome visitor without any danger to themselves.