Written by Soudip
September 1st 2014Other Places
You Are Here
Home > Italy > Bourbon Tunnel Historical Facts and PicturesThe Leaning Tower of Pisa Historical Facts and Pictures
Situated in the famous cathedral square of Italy, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a bell tower, which remains as a gem among the classic marvels of the Piazza dei Miracoli. Built in 12thcentury Rome, the tower is a marvelous embodiment of ancient roman art & architecture. This symbolic tower of glory & prosperity is also the 3rd oldest building in medieval Europe.
Construction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa
There has been a big controversy regarding the actual architect of the tower. This famous construction was first attributed to the local architect Bonanno Pisano, whereas later studies have suggested that, Diotisalvi could be the original architect. True to its name, the tower was originally slanted at an angle of 5.5 degrees due to the flawed construction made on the unstable ground of heavy clay. Unable to bear the weight of the tower it started leaning with the completion of 3rd floor. The construction was ceased before it was finally resumed and completed in 1372 under Giovanni de Simone who made one side taller than the other to make up the tilt.
Architecture and Design
The 58.37m high archetypal Romanesque-style tower with a cylindrical composition with many columns & arches, had also incorporated a Gothic flair later by introducing the bell chamber. The ground floor with geometrical patterns everywhere, the blind pergola in the base, the columns with capitals which are essentially classical Corinthian, are the most astonishing. There are 6 large open galleries within the tower. In 14thcentury a clock was installed on the 3rd floor. The famous Gothic bell chamber in the belfry at seventh floor comprises 7 major bells, one for each note in the musical scale.
This wonderful sight is also enriched with historical facts. It has survived severe attacks of the world wars and it is where Galileo carried out his famous experiment.
Category
ItalyWritten by Soudip
September 1st 2014