Here is what you may not know about the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not just a picturesque spot for tourist photos, it is also one of the world's greatest locations for capturing unique travel memories. With millions of annual visitors, this centuries-old icon holds a rich tapestry of history and surprises. Beyond its captivating lean, there are intriguing facts that make it even more interesting. 

Here are some interesting facts you may not know about this iconic structure.

Construction of the Tower of Pisa spanned two centuries

In 1173, construction began on a bell tower in Pisa, reaching the third story by 1178 with an initial tilt northward. Military conflicts halted work until 1272, then paused again after 12 years due to another war. The final phase resumed in the early 14th century, concluding with a bell chamber installed in 1372. This extended historical journey reflects the tower's resilience against adversities.

The tower's tilt worsened over time

As time passed, the ground beneath the tower weakened, leading to a gradual tilt from 0.2 to 5.5 degrees by 1990. Engineers stabilized the soil and introduced anchors to counteract the lean. Despite achieving a more secure stance, tipping continued. In 2008, a second effort successfully stopped further slouching. A 2022 analysis revealed a self-correction of 1.6 degrees since 2001, with the initial improvement noted in 2018, signifying a significant reversal in the tower's tilt.

The tower tilts due to flawed construction plans

The Leaning Tower of Pisa's iconic tilt stems from a flawed foundation and the unstable Pisan ground. However, could have been prevented if the planning was a little better. The tilt only became evident after the addition of the third story. The instability was recognised early on during the two-century construction. When construction resumed in 1272, it only worsened the issue. This is because additional stories shifted the tower's centre of gravity, which caused a reversal in its tilt direction.

The tower served as a military base in World War II

Despite its standout appearance, the German army deemed the tower a strategic lookout during World War II. Its towering silhouette, though potentially vulnerable, served as an advantageous vantage point for optimal surveillance across the adjacent flat landscape. The unique structure, rather than being a liability, became an asset for military observation, showcasing how practical considerations often override conventional expectations during wartime.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of many leaning towers in the city

Several other structures in Pisa face foundational instability due to the soft grounds of the river city. Notably, San Nicola, a 12th-century church situated approximately half a mile south of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, exhibits a mild lean. Additionally, San Michele degli Scalzi, an 11th-century church about two miles east of this duo, stands with a more pronounced 5-degree tilt.

An Antarctic rock dome is named after the tower

Discovered by the French Antarctic Expedition, a sizable rock dome in Antarctica's Geologie Archipelago is named after Italy's iconic tower. This 27-meter-long formation, initially identified on Rostand Island in 1951, is affectionately known as "Tour de Pise" due to its striking resemblance to the famous building.

Italy's Leaning Tower of Pisa stands as a renowned landmark and a global architectural icon. If you want to see it up close, the best visit the Tower is between April and May.