Pisa Tower: Where to Find It in Italy


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Pisa Tower: Where to Find It in Italy

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most iconic monuments in the world. It is located in the city of Pisa, in the Italian region of Tuscany. The tower is a freestanding bell tower that is renowned for its remarkable tilt, which began during its construction in the 12th century. The tower stands at the Piazza dei Miracoli, or “Square of Miracles”, and is the campanile (bell tower) of the Pisa Cathedral.

History of the Tower

Construction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa began in August 1173 and was completed in 1399. The tower was designed by Bonanno Pisano, who was an architect and sculptor. Initially, the tower was intended to be vertical, but the soft ground on which it was built caused it to lean to one side as it was being built. The tilt was exaggerated when the third floor was added, and it has continued to lean ever since.

The Tower’s Tilt

The tower is approximately 55 meters (180 feet) tall and leans at an angle of 3.99 degrees from the vertical. Over the years, the tilt has become worse, and in 1990 it was closed to the public for safety reasons. An extensive program of engineering and restoration was undertaken in the late 1990s and early 2000s, which stabilized the tower and reduced the tilt by about 44 centimeters (17 inches).

The Tower Today

Today, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a major tourist attraction and is one of the most visited sites in Italy. Visitors can climb the 294 steps to the top of the tower, where they can enjoy spectacular views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The tower is also a popular venue for special events, such as concerts and weddings.

Facts About the Tower

  • The tower is composed of four stories and is constructed from white marble.
  • The tower is supported by a foundation that is 9 meters (30 feet) deep.
  • The tilt of the tower has caused the top to be 4.5 meters (15 feet) off from the bottom.
  • The tower is one of the most studied monuments in the world.
  • The tower has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most recognizable monuments in the world and is a symbol of Italy and its culture. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the region, and is sure to be an unforgettable experience.


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