The Leaning Tower of Pisa: A Wonder of the World
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in the world. Located in the Italian city of Pisa, the tower has been an iconic symbol of the city since its completion in 1372. It is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Piazza dei Miracoli, and is considered one of the greatest wonders of the world.
History of the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa was originally built as the campanile, or freestanding bell tower, for the nearby cathedral. Construction of the tower began in 1173, but was halted within a few years due to the soft ground and the instability of the structure. The tower began to lean during its construction, and the builders were unable to fix the problem.
For the next century, the tower continued to lean and gain notoriety. It was finally completed in 1372, and it has been leaning ever since. The tower’s tilt has grown more severe over the centuries, and in the 19th century, engineers determined that the tower was in danger of collapse. To prevent this, they began to stabilize the tower and reduce its tilt. This stabilization has been ongoing since then, and the tower is now much safer.
Architecture and Design of the Tower
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a remarkable structure, with a unique design. It is a freestanding bell tower made of white marble and stands at a height of 56.67 meters (186 feet). The tower is an eight-story structure with each story slightly larger than the one below, giving it a slight curve. The walls are decorated with marble sculptures, and the tower is topped with an octagonal lantern.
The tilt of the tower is caused by the soft ground beneath it, and the weight of the tower itself. The tilt is now around 3.99 degrees, but it was originally much more severe. The tilt is still monitored closely, and the tower is constantly being reinforced and stabilized.
Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most popular attractions in Italy. It is part of the Piazza dei Miracoli, or Field of Miracles, which also includes the Duomo and the baptistery. The piazza is a popular spot for tourists, and it is often crowded.
The tower is open to the public, and it is possible to climb the tower if you purchase tickets in advance. Tickets are limited, and they often sell out quickly. The climb is not for the faint of heart, as the tower is still leaning, and the steps are uneven. However, the views from the top are worth the effort.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is an iconic monument and a symbol of the city of Pisa. Its unique design and remarkable history make it a must-see for any traveler to Italy.