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Home » Sightseeing in Italy » Leaning Tower of Pisa

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the world's most spectacular tourist attractions, situated in fascinating Italian city of Pisa. One of the most remarkable campaniles or bell towers in Europe, the Tower of Pisa is situated just behind the beautiful Romanesque style Pisa Cathedral. Its construction began on August 09, 1173 AD and the infamous tilt was soon discovered in 1178 AD, however, its architects decided to continue with the project regardless. Some historians believe that the inclination of the Tower of Pisa was part of the original architect's design, but now it's confirmed that it was not so.

All throughout its construction years and over the centuries later, many attempts have been made to halt its inclination, with an aim to increase its lifespan. But most of us will agree that in its curious inclination lies its beauty, which never fails to fascinate thousands of its visitors from worldwide destinations.

 
The construction of the Tower of Pisa was completed in three stages, spanning over two centuires. The construction of first floor white marble campanile was started in August 1173 AD, while during the construction of third floor in 1178, the tower started leaning, possibly because of its narrow base and unstable subsoil. In 1198 AD, few clocks were temporarily installed on the unfinished construction. Its construction was halted at the beginning of the 13th century, possibly due to continuous battles between Italy and her neighbors. The bell-chamber on its last floor could be completed and bells installed only in 1372 AD. It has seven bells, one for each note of the musical scale, with the largest one installed in 1655 AD.

The Tower measures approx. 55.68 meters in height from the ground on the lowest side and 56.70 meters on the highest side. The width at base of the tower is approx. 4.09 meters, while at the top it's 2.48 meters. To reach to its top and enjoy stunning views of Pisa, one needs to climb a total of 294 steps. Most visitors will agree that with or without the inclination, the Tower of Pisa is one of the most beautiful and spectacular tourist attractions in the world.

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