Leaning Tower of Pisa
What once caused a sensation as an architectural blunder is now, centuries later, one of the most famous cultural monuments in the world.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa went through several phases of construction, and the building—constructed using the region’s characteristic Carrara marble—took nearly 200 years to complete. Precisely because of its unmistakable tilt, this symbol of the Tuscan city has become one of the most popular subjects for photographers.
As was customary in northern Italy, the bell tower was designed as a freestanding structure next to the church—it was originally built as the bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Located in the heart of the city, the building graces Piazza del Duomo, also known as “Piazza dei Miracoli.”
A project that isn’t going according to plan
The cornerstone for the majestic tower was laid in 1173, based on designs by the Italian architect Bonanno Pisano. The first few floors were constructed, surrounded by 15 white marble columns and blind arches. However, just a few years later, upon reaching the third floor, the structure began to lean toward the southeast, forcing work to be halted for about 100 years. The cause of the tilt lies in the underlying soil, composed of clayey mud and sand, which gave way under the tower’s weight.
Structural challenges
Architect Giovanni di Simone was responsible for resuming construction in 1272. To compensate for the tilt, the next four floors were built with a shallower angle than the existing ones. After another brief interruption, the bell chamber was finally completed in 1372. However, as the tower continued to tilt in the following years, extensive restoration work was required. In 1990, the angle of inclination, which was then 5.5 degrees, was reduced to 3.9 degrees. Since 2001, visitors have once again been able to admire this architectural masterpiece up close. Despite its tilt, there is no cause for concern: the structure is firmly anchored to the ground.
Interesting facts about the Leaning Tower of Pisa at a glance: