The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the freestanding bell tower of Pisa Cathedral and one of Italy’s most recognisable landmarks. Set in the Piazza dei Miracoli, it began to tilt during construction, which started in 1173, as its foundations settled unevenly in soft ground. Look closely and you can see how later builders compensated for the lean by adjusting the upper floors.
The tower is also a striking example of Romanesque architecture, with tiers of pale marble arches reflecting the wealth of Pisa’s maritime republic. It forms part of the UNESCO-listed Piazza dei Miracoli, alongside the cathedral, baptistery and Camposanto cemetery. Engineers stabilised the tower around the turn of the 21st century, allowing visitors to climb it again.
The ascent is part of the appeal: worn marble steps and the shifting angle of the staircase make the climb feel slightly disorienting. From the top, this Pisa viewpoint offers a sweep over the cathedral, the city’s rooftops and the surrounding countryside. Back on the lawns, the familiar forced-perspective photos are hard to resist, but leave time to appreciate the square’s architecture too.
Tower entry is timed and places are limited, so book ahead, particularly in the warmer months. Children under eight cannot climb, and bags must be left in the luggage storage. Visit early or late in the day for softer light and a quieter square; Pisa Centrale is roughly a 25-minute walk away.