Leaning Tower of Pisa: Tickets

Leaning Tower of Pisa FAQs

1. Do you need to book tickets in advance for the Leaning Tower of Pisa?

• We always suggest booking tickets online as it saves a lot of time, especially during the peak season months.

2. Can you climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa?

• You certainly can climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa, yes! The inside has stairs on quite a narrow staircase but you are allowed up!

3. Is the Leaning Tower of Pisa safe?

• The Leaning Tower of Pisa is currently safe, yes. It has been through multiple structural renovation projects with the last taking place in the 1990’s and according to records, it hasn’t moved since 2008.

4. How far does the Leaning Tower of Pisa lean?

• The Leaning Tower of Pisa is currently leaning by 3.9 degrees and hasn’t moved since 2008. It was leaning more before, but the last renovation improved it!

5. What caused the Leaning Tower of Pisa to lean?

• The lean is due to a combination of problems including issues with the foundation and soft soil.

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Leaning Tower of Pisa Fun Facts:

1. The Lean/Tilt: The tilt is due to a combination of soft soil and poor foundation. Interestingly, the tilt actually helped preserve the tower because it reduced the pressure on the structure.
2. Cultural Impact: The Leaning Tower of Pisa has inspired countless parodies and replicas around the world. It's even been the subject of popular culture, from cartoons to movies.
3. Astronomical Studies: Galileo Galilei is rumoured to have used the tower to study the principles of pendulums and gravity, though historical evidence for this is sparse!
4. Saved from Destruction: The tower avoided destruction! In 1944 American Sergeant Leon Weckstein was so taken by its beauty that even though the Nazis were using the tower as an observation post, he chose not to destroy with an artillery strike in order to save it.
5. Two Centuries: It took almost 200 years to built the tower due to political issues, funding and other problems.
6. The Masked Architect: There is still a question over who designed the tower. Some say it was Bonanno Pisano and others claim it was Diotisalvi!
7. Has the Lean Stopped: Due to structural works, the tower doesn't appear to have moved in recent times. In fact, the lean has reduced over time!