Member-only story
Leaning Tower of Pisa
A poem honoring an historical force
(Not a member? Read here for free)
The Tower of Pisa universally known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa is the freestanding bell tower of the Cathedral of the Diocese of Pisa, located in the Piazza del Duomo (Square of Miracles) in Pisa, Italy. Standing approximately 56 meters (183 feet) high, the white-marble medieval structure is world-famous for its unintended tilt.
In August 1173, architect Bonanno Pisano began construction of the tower, which proceeded in three stages over nearly 200 years due to various interruptions including wars. It was finally finished in the mid-14th century.
During construction in the 12th century, the tower began to tilt because of an inadequate foundation which was laid upon an unstable mix of clay, sand, and shells. The ground underneath was significantly softer on one side, causing the structure to sink unevenly.
Over the centuries, the lean continually worsened. Between 1990 and 2001, efforts were made to reduce the tilt by approximately 45 centimeters, returning the monument to its position since 1838 and securing its structural safety for the foreseeable future.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa was built for two purposes: as a functional religious role representing a campanile (freestanding bell…
