Leaning Tower of Pisa

#leaning Tower of Pisa The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a famous freestanding bell tower located in Pisa, Italy. Here are some key facts about it: Basic Facts: • Name: Leaning Tower of Pisa (Torre Pendente di Pisa in Italian) • Function: Bell tower (campanile) of the nearby Pisa Cathedral • Height: About 56 meters (183 feet) • Construction started: 1173 • Completed: 1372 (took nearly 200 years due to interruptions) • Architect: Likely Bonanno Pisano (though it’s debated) Why It Leans: • The lean began during construction due to unstable foundation soil, composed of a mix of sand, clay, and shells. • The foundation was only about 3 meters deep, which wasn’t enough to support the weight. • Over time, the tilt increased and threatened the tower’s stability. Restoration Efforts: • In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, major efforts were made to stabilize the tower. • Engineers removed soil from underneath and used counterweights to reduce the tilt. • Today, the lean is about 3.97 degrees—less than before but still noticeable. Fun Facts: • The tower has 7 bells, one for each musical note. • You can climb the tower using 294 steps. • It’s part of the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -