Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is an iconic Italian landmark, known for its distinctive tilt. It is a freestanding bell tower located in the Cathedral Square of Pisa, Italy. The tower is recognized worldwide as one of the most recognizable and unique structures, and has become a symbol of Italy.
The Origin of the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The construction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa began in 1173, during the medieval period. The tower was designed to be a bell tower for the nearby Pisa Cathedral. The tower was intended to stand at 60 meters tall and was designed with eight floors. The project was commissioned by the Pisa Cathedral’s governing body, and the tower was constructed on a soft soil foundation, which would later prove to be the cause of the tower’s lean.
The Construction of the Tower Begins
Construction on the tower began in 1173, under the direction of Bonanno Pisano, a well-known architect and sculptor of the time. The tower was constructed in the Romanesque style of architecture, which was popular during the medieval period. The first three floors were completed before the lean began to occur, and at that point, the tower was already beginning to lean slightly to the north.
The First Signs of the Tower’s Lean
By the time the fourth floor was being constructed, the lean had become noticeable. The construction team attempted to compensate for the lean by making the next floors slightly taller on the north side than the south. However, the lean continued to increase, and by the time the seventh floor was completed, the tower was leaning at an angle of about five degrees.
Halting of Construction
In 1185, construction was halted due to political conflicts and wars. This pause gave the soil more time to settle, which caused the tower to sink further into the soft ground and increase the lean. Construction was not resumed until almost 100 years later, in 1272.
Resuming Construction Amidst Complications
When construction resumed, the architects attempted to reduce the lean by adding more weight to the higher side of the tower. However, this only added to the problem, and the tower continued to lean. Despite the ongoing complications, construction continued until the tower was completed in 1372.
Completion of the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The tower was completed in 1372, after almost 200 years of construction. The final height of the tower is 56 meters on the high side and 55.86 meters on the low side, with a lean of approximately four degrees.
The Tower Throughout the Centuries
The Leaning Tower of Pisa has been a popular tourist attraction since the 19th century. Throughout its long history, the tower has been used for various purposes, including as an observation tower, a watchtower, and even as a military lookout during World War II.
Structural Changes to the Tower
The tower has undergone many changes over the centuries, including the addition of seven bells, the removal of the bells in the 20th century due to the tower’s instability, and the installation of a counterweight system to stabilize the lean.
Efforts to Stabilize the Leaning Tower
In the late 20th century, efforts were made to stabilize the tower and prevent it from collapsing. This included the installation of a counterweight system that reduced the lean by approximately 45 centimeters.
The Tower Today: A Popular Tourist Destination
Today, the Leaning Tower of Pisa continues to be a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can climb up to the top of the tower and enjoy views of the surrounding city. The tower also serves as a symbol of Italy and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Conclusion: The Tower’s Legacy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa has become an iconic symbol of Italy and a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of medieval architects. Despite its ongoing lean, the tower has stood for almost 900 years and continues to inspire awe and admiration in visitors from around the world. Its legacy as one of the most unique and recognizable structures in the world is sure to continue for generations to come.
