As a young lad I was intrigued to hear about the tower in Italy that was leaning over and indeed many years later when I paid it a visit it was still an intriguing spectacle.
The free-standing bell tower of the adjacent cathedral began to lean during construction in the 12th century, due to soft ground which could not properly support the structure’s weight. It worsened through the completion of construction in the 14th century and by 1990, the tilt had reached 5.5 degrees.
The structure was stabilised by remedial work between 1993 and 2001, which reduced the tilt to about 4 degrees and hopefully ensures it will stay upright for good.
I can agree that it was a sight i as well was intrigued about after all the times the tower was mentioned in our school books. When visiting two years ago it felt so much smaller than I had imagined 🙂
Yes it is smaller than imagined. Not as underwhelming as Copenhagen’s mermaid.
Yeah, our southern neighbours in Denmark has really been able to create a hype for that small statue. 🙂
But doesn’t the Manneken Pis in Brussels take the price in being much smaller than the crowds foretell? So much people and you need to really get up in front to even be able to see it. (yes, it is the story that is actually more interesting) 🙂
Another you are right. The Mona Lisa too. Tiny picture in thick glass case with massed crowds!
Did you climb to the top?
For some reason it was shut. It was February so maybe out of season
What a shame, it is worth tackling the climb for sure.