The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a freestanding bell tower located in the Italian city of Pisa. It is situated behind the Pisa Cathedral and is the third oldest structure in the city’s Cathedral Square after the Cathedral and the Baptistry. The tower’s unusual tilt is the result of an unstable foundation, which was built on soft ground with one side taller than the other. The tower began to lean during construction in the 12th century and its tilt has grown more pronounced over the years. It is now the most famous bell tower in the world.
History
The Leaning Tower of Pisa was built as the bell tower for the Pisa Cathedral. Construction began in 1173 and was completed in 1372. The foundation was built on soft ground, which caused the tower to tilt as it was being built. Despite attempts to correct the tilt, it became increasingly pronounced as the years passed. By the 19th century, the tower had become a tourist attraction and many people came to see it.
Design
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a bell tower with eight stories and a total height of 186 feet. It is made of white marble and is decorated with sculptures and reliefs. The base of the tower is circular and it tapers as it rises. The tower is topped with a belfry and is ringed by a gallery.
The Bells
The tower houses seven bells, each with a different purpose. The largest bell, the “Great Bell”, is the oldest and was cast in the 12th century. The other bells are named for saints and were added in the 18th and 19th centuries. The bells are rung on special occasions, such as religious holidays and festivals.
Preservation
The Leaning Tower of Pisa has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In an effort to preserve the tower, it has been undergoing extensive restoration and stabilization since the 1990s. This has included the installation of steel cables to help support the structure and prevent further tilting. The tower is now monitored regularly and is open to the public.
Interesting Facts
- The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the most famous bell tower in the world.
- It is made of white marble and is decorated with sculptures and reliefs.
- The tower houses seven bells, each with a different purpose.
- It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The tower is now monitored regularly and is open to the public.
