Leaning Tower Of Pisa
Discover useful information and tips for visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and experience an unforgettable journey exploring a monument that is unique in the world.
Tower of Pisa: the tickets most chosen by travelers
Leaning Tower of Pisa: the tower that defies time and balance
An iconic and unmistakable symbol not only of the city but of all Italy, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is world-renowned for its spectacular inclination and the fascinating history it carries with it.
Built starting in 1173 by architect Bonanno Pisano, the tower was not originally intended as a defensive structure, but rather as the bell tower for the cathedral, designed to be a monumental testament to the greatness of the Maritime Republic of Pisa. However, even from the construction of the first floors, a shift caused by the unstable, clay-like ground became apparent. The inclination thus became the defining feature of a structure that has defied the laws of balance and the passage of time for centuries.
Standing about 58 meters tall, the tower dominates the magnificent Piazza dei Miracoli, an extraordinary place where the white and grey marble arches create light play and symmetrical patterns typical of Pisan Romanesque architecture. The ascent, marked by 251 steps trodden by millions of visitors over the centuries, provides the chance to experience the fascinating asymmetry of the structure, feeling every detail of its unique lean.
From the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the view stretches over not only the square and the city but also the rolling landscape of the Tuscan countryside, offering a spectacular vista and a unique atmosphere that blends history, architecture, and the unmistakable charm of medieval engineering.
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Useful Information for visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Opening hours - the Leaning Tower of Pisa is open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM in winter and from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM in summer, with extended hours until 10:00 PM from June 17 to August 31. The last entrance is allowed 30 minutes before closing.
Accessibility - children under 8 years old are not allowed to climb the tower, while minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The tower is not recommended for people with cardiovascular or mobility conditions for safety reasons: the steps are narrow and the floor is uneven and slippery. Those with specific needs, further details can be obtained by contacting the Opera della Primaziale Pisana (OPA). For visitors with disabilities, accompanied by a caregiver, it is possible to request free entry during designated hours.
Booking - to avoid long lines and choose the most convenient time for your visit, it is best to book tickets online in advance. Tickets are not sold exclusively for the tower; you must purchase access to the cathedral as well. Alternatively, guided tours are available, which also include entry to the stunning Baptistery of Piazza dei Miracoli.
Last Minute Tickets - if you haven't booked in advance, you can still purchase last-minute tickets online or directly at the site. However, be prepared for long waiting times, especially during peak seasons.
Tower of Pisa: tips for your visit
FAQ about the Tower of Pisa
1. What caused the Tower of Pisa to lean?
The Leaning Tower of Pisa began to lean during its construction in the late 12th century due to the unstable, soft soil on which it was built. The clay and sandy ground could not support the weight of the tower, causing the foundation to sink unevenly. Over time, this led to the gradual tilt that has become the tower's most iconic feature
2. Can you still go up to the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
Yes, visitors can still climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The tower is open to the public, and walking to the top is a popular activity for tourists, offering breathtaking views of Pisa and its surroundings. However, access to the tower is regulated, with strict rules regarding who can climb it. Adults over 18 can climb the tower without restrictions, but minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 8 years old are not permitted to enter for safety reasons. Visitors with certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular or mobility issues, are also advised against climbing the tower.
3. Is it free to visit the tower?
No, visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa is not free. The entry fee to climb the tower depends on the ticket options you choose. Tickets typically start at €20, which includes access to the tower as well as entry to the Cattedrale di Pisa. Additionally, there are combined ticket options available that allow access to other attractions in Piazza dei Miracoli, such as the Battistero.
3. How long does it take to walk up the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
Climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa typically takes around 30 minutes. The ascent involves 251 steps to the top, and visitors can enjoy the view from each of the levels along the way.
4. What time of day is best to visit the tower?
The best time to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa is early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during peak tourist seasons. These times tend to be less crowded, providing a more relaxed experience. Visiting at sunrise or sunset also offers beautiful lighting for photographs. To make sure you can visit during the ideal time, it's a good idea to book your tickets in advance. This way, you can secure the time slot that best fits your schedule and avoid long queues.
5. What are the opening hours?
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM in winter and from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM in summer, with entry allowed up to 30 minutes before closing. From June 17th to August 31st, the opening hours are extended until 10:00 PM. Early closing is observed on June 16th and August 9th.
6. Can I purchase a single ticket to visit the Tower and the other attractions in Piazza dei Miracoli?
Yes, of course. Remember: there isn't a ticket just for the Leaning Tower. Instead, you can choose from packages, like Tower + Cathedral or Tower + Cathedral + Baptistery. By booking online, you can select a reserved entrance to the Tower or a guided tour of the Cathedral, which helps skip lines during peak times. This way, you’ll uncover the secrets of all the attractions in Piazza dei Miracoli while enjoying a seamless visit.
How to get to the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Getting to the Leaning Tower of Pisa is quite simple, especially if you're arriving by train. If you alight at Pisa's central station, there are several options to reach Piazza dei Miracoli, where the Tower is located.
1. From stop "Stazione 1", take Line 1+ (direction Park Pietrasantina), which runs every 10 minutes and will take you directly to stop "Torre 1," just in front of Piazza dei Miracoli.
2. Alternatively, you can board Line 4 at stop "Stazione 8," which runs every 20 minutes and drops you off at "Del Parlascio," also very close to the Tower.
3. If you're arriving by bus from Sesta Porta, in Via Battisti you can take various lines (60, 70, 80, 120, 130) that all stop at "Torre 1," bringing you right into the heart of the city.
4. Arriving by air? The process is just as straightforward: take the PisaMover shuttle from the airport to the central station, then proceed as if arriving by train, following signs to the nearby stops leading to the Tower.
5. For those who don't mind walking, you can reach Piazza dei Miracoli with a pleasant 1.7 km stroll, crossing the Arno River and passing by the Botanical Gardens and Museum.
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Best attractions around Tower of Pisa
Tower of Pisa: info, tickets and visits
The Tower of Pisa is perhaps the first thing that comes to mind, along with the Coliseum, when we talk about Italy (after pizza of course). It is an iconic monument, not to be missed, to visit absolutely when traveling in Italy. Then let’s prepare our visit to the best!
Vedi ❯The best tours to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is located in Piazza dei Miracoli, the vibrant heart of the city, and is easily accessible by foot or public transport. Its strategic location allows visitors to combine their visit with other attractions in the square, such as the Cathedral, the Baptistery or the Cemetery.
The tower is open every day from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with varying hours throughout the year, and the last entry is usually allowed half an hour before closing. Especially during peak seasons, it's advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines and ensure quicker access.
The visit lasts about 30 minutes and starts at a price of 20 Euros, but access is not allowed solely to the tower. The minimum ticket includes entry to the Cathedral, or you can choose to purchase combined tickets to visit other attractions in the square or the city:
1. Leaning Tower and Cathedral - choose your preferred time to climb the tower and visit the stunning Pisa Cathedral.
2. Leaning Tower, Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery - a guided tour that also includes entry to the Baptistery, or if it is closed, a ticket for the Cemetery.
3. Leaning Tower and Cathedral: guided visit and food tour - in addition to the attractions of Piazza dei Miracoli, you can explore the charm of the local culinary traditions.
Discover other attractions of Piazza dei Miracoli
In the heart of Piazza dei Miracoli, two wonders complement the majesty of the Leaning Tower of Pisa: the Cathedral and the Baptistery.
- The Pisa Cathedral, founded in 1064 and consecrated in 1118, is an example of Romanesque architecture with Arab influences. The building features a striking black-and-white exterior that blends Roman and Eastern elements, such as the elliptical dome. The interior is decorated with marble and monolithic granite columns, housing exceptional works of art, such as the Giovanni Pisano's pulpit.
- The Baptistery of San Giovanni, founded in 1152, was designed by Diotisalvi and later expanded by Nicola Pisano in the 13th century. With a diameter of 107.24 meters and a height of 54 meters, it's renowned for its impressive double dome and the extraordinary acoustics, which turn the building into a natural musical instrument.
History of the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Renowned today as one of Italy's most recognizable symbols worldwide, the history of the Leaning Tower of Pisa began as an ambitious architectural project. Built by Bonanno Pisano and other master builders of the time starting in 1173 as the cathedral’s bell tower, its construction was marked by difficulties from the start. Even in the early years, the leaning of the structure became apparent, caused by the soft and unstable ground on which it stands.
During the Middle Ages, its inclination became a distinctive feature, both fascinating and a source of concern. Despite numerous efforts to correct it, the tower has always maintained its leaning position, and only with recent restoration work has it been stabilized, preventing the imminent risk of collapse. Today, the tower stands as a testament to the perseverance of its builders, in an eternal challenge against gravity, symbolizing how, sometimes, beauty can emerge from an unexpected mistake.
Curiosities about the Tower of Pisa
Why is the Leaning Tower of Pisa inclined?
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is inclined due to the soft and unstable ground on which it was built, causing the foundations to sink from the early years of construction. What began as a soil issue, however, resulted in one of the most unique and spectacular monuments in the world!
The bells of the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The bells are a central feature of the tower's structure, part of Pisa's tradition and cultural heritage. Seven bells ring from the bell chamber, each with a specific function, from marking the hours to celebrating religious events. The largest is the Bell of the Assumption, dating back to the 17th century, while the oldest is the Pasquereccia bell, from 1262, named for its use during Easter celebrations.
Other inclined towers in Pisa
Although the Leaning Tower of Pisa is probably the most famous inclined tower in the world, it is not the only structure in the city with this characteristic. Pisa also hosts two other inclined towers: one is the bell tower of the Church of San Nicola, known for its octagonal shape and slight inclination caused by unstable ground, similar to that of its more famous counterpart. Another, with an even more pronounced inclination, is the tower of the Church of San Michele degli Scalzi, which leans at a 5% angle due to the sandy and clay soil on which it is built.