The Leaning Tower of Pisa

[Michael Kenner]

One of the major tourist destinations of the world - and a must-visit one is - the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the freestanding bell tower of the cathedral of Tuscany's city of Pisa. Prior to restoration work which is said to have started between 1990 and 2001, this tower is said to have leaned at an angle of 5.5 degrees (it's now 3.99 degrees).

The Pisa tower is one of the four buildings which usually make up the cathedral complex, the Campo dei Miracoli or Piazza dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles). It's constructed of white marble, with 207 columns ranging around eight stories, and looks something like a massive wedding cake. This architectural splendour is a sight to see - and anyone seeing cannot help but think - will it in fact fall over some day! :)

image: www.atravelbook.com