You've seen it in movies, cartoons, and countless tourist pictures. But once you come out of Pisa's bustling streets and finally have a clear view of the Leaning Tower, you'll understand why it's such an icon. This uncanny building is actually the bell tower for the nearby Cattedrale Metropolitana Primaziale di Santa Maria Assunta. Make the most out of your visit to Piazza dei Miracoli by seeing both!
Upon entering the piazza, your eyes are instantly drawn to the unmistakable tower – but that's just the beginning. It's no surprise that this place is called the 'Square of Miracles'. Plus, so much went wrong during the history of the Leaning Tower – from a famously poor foundation to the Nazis using it as a lookout – that its continued existence is indeed miraculous.
Once you finish gasping at the stunning marble exterior of the Torre di Pisa (and taking a few 'Look at me, I'm holding up the tower!' pictures), ascend the tilted campanile. From its top, you'll get fabulous views and maybe even hear its seven bells ringing – one for each musical note.
The tower also had a near-miss in 1944, but it was saved by its beauty. American Sergeant Leon Weckstein was so taken by its splendor that he resisted calling an artillery strike on the Nazis who were using the tower as an observation post.
If you were already leaning towards visiting these two places, remember that the tower underwent long periods of closures in the past, so its structure could be strengthened. Right now you can see it and climb it in all its glory. Seize the day!
