Leaning Tower of Pisa
Toscana
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, located in the Piazza del Duomo in Pisa, Tuscany, is the iconic freestanding bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Construction began in 1173 and spanned nearly two centuries, finally completed in the 14th century. Its notable tilt, currently about 5.1 degrees, results from unstable, soft ground beneath its foundation that started to subside during early construction phases. The tower stands approximately 58 meters tall and weighs over 14,000 tons, featuring six levels of arcades and blind arches with a curved architectural line. It functions as the cathedral's campanile, housing seven bells corresponding to musical notes, the largest weighing over three tons. The tower has undergone numerous restoration and stabilization efforts, notably in the 19th century and throughout the 20th century, to prevent collapse and preserve its unique posture. Managed by the Opera della Primaziale Pisana, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Piazza dei Miracoli and remains one of Italy's most recognizable monuments and a symbol of architectural resilience and medieval engineering.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to book tickets in advance due to high demand. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Discounts are available for children, seniors, and groups. Wear comfortable shoes as the climb involves 273 steps. Note that access may be limited for visitors with mobility issues. Guided tours provide richer historical context and architectural insights.
Faits intéressants
- •The tower’s tilt is approximately 5.1 degrees, greater than the original 3.97 degrees recorded in earlier times.
- •It contains seven bells, each tuned to a musical note, with the largest bell weighing over 3.5 tons.
- •The tower has 273 steps leading to the top.
- •Despite its lean, the tower has survived numerous earthquakes and wars.
- •It is part of the Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
Histoire
Construction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa started on August 9, 1173, initially designed by architect Diotisalvi or possibly Bonanno Pisano.
Early construction halted after the foundation began to sink due to soft, unstable soil, causing the characteristic lean.
Work resumed in 1275 under Giovanni di Simone and Giovanni Pisano, who added three more floors with a slight curve to counteract the tilt.
The bell chamber was completed in the mid-14th century.
In the 19th century, restoration efforts isolated the base and investigated the soil conditions, revealing underground water as a cause of instability.
In the 20th century, attempts to stabilize the tower included injecting cement and soil extraction, with varying success.
Today, the tower is stabilized and open to visitors, symbolizing medieval ingenuity and preservation efforts.
Guide du lieu
Base and Foundation1173
The foundation is shallow and built on soft, unstable soil composed mainly of clay, which caused the tower’s characteristic lean shortly after construction began.
Arcade Levels12th-14th centuries
The tower features six levels of arcades with blind arches, creating a curved, elegant silhouette that visually compensates for the lean.
Bell Chamber14th century
Completed in the mid-14th century, the bell chamber houses seven bells, each corresponding to a musical note, used historically to mark time and religious ceremonies.
Stabilization Works19th-20th centuries
Multiple restoration campaigns, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries, stabilized the tower, including soil extraction and cement injections, preventing collapse and reducing the tilt.
Contact
Téléphone: 050 835011
