The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Located in Pisa, Italy, the tower is instantly recognizable because of its unusual tilt. Millions of tourists visit it each year, and countless photographs are taken of people pretending to “hold it up.” However, beyond its lean and playful reputation, the tower has a long and fascinating history filled with surprises. Here are some of the most interesting facts about the Tower of Pisa that reveal why it remains one of the world’s greatest wonders.
1. It Was Never Meant to Lean
The tower’s most famous feature—its tilt—was actually a mistake. When construction began in 1173, the builders intended it to stand perfectly straight. The lean began only five years later when the first three floors were completed. The soft soil beneath the foundation could not support the tower’s weight, causing it to sink on one side.
2. It Took Nearly 200 Years to Complete
The tower was not built in one lifetime. Construction stretched from 1173 to 1372, taking almost 199 years to finish. Wars, financial problems, and structural difficulties caused long breaks in construction. These pauses allowed the ground to settle and helped prevent the tower from collapsing.
3. It Is a Bell Tower
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not just a monument—it is a bell tower for the nearby cathedral in the Piazza dei Miracoli. It holds seven bells, each tuned to a different musical note. The largest bell, called L’Assunta, weighs over 3.5 tons.
4. It Has a Curved Shape
Because builders tried to fix the lean by making the upper floors taller on one side, the tower has a subtle banana-like curve. This makes it unique among famous buildings.
5. Galileo and the Tower
According to legend, Galileo Galilei, who was born in Pisa, dropped two objects of different weights from the tower to prove that they would fall at the same speed. While historians debate whether this really happened, the story connects the tower to the history of science.
6. It Has Been Closed for Safety
In 1990, the tower was closed because engineers feared it might collapse. After 11 years of careful work, the tower was stabilized and reopened in 2001.
7. It Is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The tower is part of the Piazza dei Miracoli, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
8. It Survived Earthquakes
Despite its lean, the tower has survived several major earthquakes. Its soft foundation and tilt actually helped absorb shock waves.
9. It Is Made of Marble
The tower is built mainly from white and gray marble, giving it a bright and elegant appearance.
10. Millions Visit Every Year
The Leaning Tower attracts millions of visitors who climb its 294 steps and enjoy the view from the top.
Conclusion
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is more than just a leaning building. It is a symbol of history, creativity, and human determination. What started as a construction error became one of the most loved landmarks on Earth.