The Leaning Tower of Pisa …

Pisa is world famous for its leaning tower. The leaning bell tower, DSC_0866standing 170 feet tall, was built almost 1,000 years ago. It is the largest of its kind in Italy. Seeing it, it is hard to understand how it has remained standing when its foundation is based on sand. Many fear the tower may ultimately collapse and there have been considerable efforts, in recent years, to restore the tower. Today, the lean of the tower is, somewhat, corrected. Locals acknowledge there is a certain charm to the leaning tower and it does make for a great tourist attraction.

The Piazza dei Miracoli, otherwise known as the Square of Miracles, is the common name for the cathedral DSC_0846grounds in Pisa. On the grounds is the cathedral, the baptistery, a cemetery, and the infamous bell tower. Looking at the visitors at the entrance, you get a good sense of the cathedral’s size!

Standing to the west of the cathedral, is the Baptistery.  Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, its construction began DSC_0825in 1152 and it was completed  in 1363. This Baptistery is the largest in Italy, measuring 351 feet around and 180 feet high. The entire Baptistery is made out of marble and it looks spectacular!

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