Leaning Tower of Pisa
Experience this Iconic Architectural Mishap

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is perhaps one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy. Each year, it is estimated that over one million visitors come to see this mishap of architecture which is located in Pisa, Italy - in the Northern Tuscany region, just off of the coast of the Ligurian Sea. The leaning tower is a fun and educational place to visit and you are guaranteed to snap some excellent photos for your album or social media page while visiting.



Fun Facts About the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a free-standing bell tower, belonging to the Pisa Cathedral which is located just in front of it. Its construction began in the 12th century and it was shortly afterwards that a slight tilt in the tower began to be evident. Due to softer ground on one side of the foundation, which was unable to properly support the weight of the structure, the tower began to slightly lean to one side. It currently leans at an almost forty-five degree angle. 

Starting in the late 20th century and continuing until today, efforts have been made to reduce the tilt which the tower leans on and correct it as much as possible. In the early 21st century, renovation efforts were done that resulted in reducing the overhang of the tower by 45 cm and correcting some of the tilt which ended up costing nearly €200 million.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa has a rich and interesting history and has been a part of many important historical events. Galileo was said to have visited the tower and climbed to the top. From here he dropped two cannon balls of different weights and sizes in order to prove that the speed at which they descended at was independent of their mass. The tower has also survived numerous earthquakes throughout its lifespan. It is thought that because the tower sits on such soft ground, it is able to avoid the destruction that earthquakes should have caused it. More fun facts below:

  • It is eight stories high
  • It slants almost 4 meters from vertical
  • Its walls are eight feet thick at the base of the tower
  • There are 7 bells inside
  • The tower has 296 steps to climb to the top
  • The tower was almost bombed during World War II as it was suspected that German forces may be hiding out inside. Fortunately, the U.S. army sergeant that was sent to investigate, found the tower so beautiful that he stopped all air strikes against it.

A guided tour of the Tower of Pisa is one of the best ways to experience this famous site. Guides can provide you with all of the details on the history and construction of this wonder and can take you to the top of the tower for spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. 

If your Italy tour brings you to the Tuscany region, be sure to take a day trip to Pisa to view this spectacular site. Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa is an unforgettable experience and is sure to be one of the highlights of your vacation.


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