Pisa: A Traveler's Guide to Leaning Tower and Beyond
Updated: May 12
If the city of Pisa is known today, it is because of its single most iconic symbol which attracts millions of visitors each year and that is the Leaning Tower of Pisa. When I was a child, my papa had taken me here as part of his many sea voyages to Italy. I don’t have any recollection of it but the small statue of Leaning Tower of Pisa in my house kept as a decorative item served as a constant reminder of my dream to see it up close one day. And that day dawned. On a hot sultry summer day in Italy, here I was with my two kids in tow, just like papa. I wasn’t sure that I would be blown away, but mesmerized was I! It’s towering height and splendor commanded attention, leaving an idelible impression on me who had the privilege of witnessing its grandeur in person. My kids, Kiu and Arya, were intrigued and their eyes brightened up with a sense of wonder upon seeing its sheer beauty.
Agenda: Pisa - A Traveler's Guide to Leaning Tower of Pisa and Beyond
Leaning Tower of Pisa (Torre Pendente)
The Leaning Tower of Pisa was originally built as a freestanding bell tower for the nearby Pisa Cathedral, which is part of the larger Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) complex in Pisa, Italy. It is widely believed that the architect Bonanno Pisano created the original design . The primary purpose of the tower was to house the cathedral's bells and serve as a symbol of the city's wealth and power. The tower's construction began in 1173 and continued over several centuries. History has it that the tower was designed to have a circular base and a height of approximately 56 meters (183 feet). However, due to the soft ground and inadequate foundation the tower started to lean gradually.
Why is Leaning Tower of Pisa so popular?
In all the precision around us, just imagine a tall tower starting to lean quite dangerously, tilting at an angle of about 3.99 degrees, yet standing tall magnificently. And it is this distinctive tilt that has made it the most famous landmark in the city. Despite efforts to compensate for the lean, including adjustments in the construction of upper levels, the tower continued to lean. This iconic symbol of Pisa was proclaimed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World for its outstanding Romanesque architecture.
We noticed a huge number of tourists ushering towards the tower in great hurry to catch the queue to climb to the top of the tower. Tourists had their A game, showcasing their professional poses for the best photo opportunity. Mine tried a few too, though very amateur. They tried to support the tower with their hands, creating a playful illusion of support. Others opted to hold the tower between their fingers, meanwhile some simply clicked photos with the backdrop of the tower, allowing the tower’s opulence speak for itself. How iconic is this tower, that people from every walk of life sought to create lasting memories, immortalizing their experience with the Leaning Tower in a single picture.
Since we had booked our tickets online, all we had to do was keep our handbags in the lockers in the locker room which was 100 metres away from the tower. It is advisable to prior book your tickets, as there can be limited availability to climb the tower. There is a specific time at which you can enter the tower and it’s recommended to follow the time limit offered to stay up in order to enjoy the stunning views of Pisa. It takes approximately 1 hour to go up and come down. With a total of 294 steps to ascend, its quite a rigorous physical walk up the stairs to the top. At the time of my visit, there was a restriction in place for kids below 4 years of age to ascend the tower as children need to have the physical capability to climb the narrow, winding staircase. However, I guess the age limit has changed to children being at least 8 years old to climb the tower. Children between the ages of 8 and 18 must be accompanied by an adult while climbing the tower.
With all our tickets checked and with adrenaline pumped, we were all set to climb to the top of the tower. My husband stayed back with the kids playing on the green lawns of the square while we made our ascend. The climb to the top involved ascending a narrow, spiral stoned and uneven staircase that winds its way up the inside of the tower. It is but obvious but to exercise caution while ascending and descending this staircase. As I climbed, I felt a bit claustrophobic due to the massive stone walls and intricate brickwork, however the several resting levels with wider spaces helped with the ventilation and kept me going. You will find many architectural features that showcase corrections in the lean made during its subsequent construction phases. Upon reaching the top, we exclaimed in delight thanks to the breathtaking panoramic views of Pisa and its environs. From one side, you can witness the domes of the cathedral and baptistery and from the other side you can get a view of the red roofed buildings of the town. Sitting at this vantage point, I video called my mom and dad and showed them the spectacular views from atop which hadn’t changed a bit since they last saw it 35 years ago.
After capturing several photos of the cityscape views, the Duomo and tower, it was time to descend the tower. We had a limited amount of time at the top to enjoy the views and take in the experience. The duration is typically around 15 minutes, but it can vary depending on the size of crowd. We followed the same spiral staircase fairly quickly. After we descended the tower, we headed towards the other architectural marvels of Pisa. Once we descended the tower, we headed towards the other architectural marvels of Pisa.
Tip: Toilets are located within the venue so a pit stop there before heading to the tower is advisable. There are no toilets inside the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Piazza dei Miracoli
As you walk towards the tower from the humongous entrance gates, you will pass the Piazza dei Miracoli. This Square of Miracles which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site houses the Leaning Tower of Pisa, as well as other architectural marvels such as the Cathedral (Duomo), the Baptistery, and the Camposanto Monumentale (monumental cemetery).
Cathedral of Pisa (Duomo)
Located adjacent to the Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles is the magnificent Romanesque church, the Cathedral of Pisa. It is the principal church of Pisa and serves as the seat of the Archbishop. This cathedral was built in the 11th century intentionally adjacent to the tower. To further avoid tilting and provide a solid foundation to the tower, the cathedral provides stability and support to the leaning tower. The use of white marble was also intentional to provide asthethical harmony between the two constructions. Unfortunately we couldn’t make it in time to admire its intricate façade and beautiful interiors. One of the most famous works in the Cathedral is the pulpit by Giovanni Pisano. Worth a visit!
Baptistery (Battistero di San Giovanni)
The Baptistery in Pisa was a place traditionally where individuals were baptized into the Christian faith. It is a circular building with a dome and is one of the largest baptisteries in Italy. It features a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. I was so stunned by its architectural details. With its impressive dome, marble pulpit, and excellent acoustics, no wonder it’s one of the prime attractions in Italy.
Opening times: Sun to Sat - 9 AM to 8 PM
Camposanto Monumentale (Final resting place)
The Camposanto Monumentale’s proximity to the Bapistery is of symbolic significance where the emphasis is on the journey of life from baptism to the final resting place. The Camposanto Monumentale is a colossal cemetery situated beside the Cathedral where the original intention was to be a burial ground for the citizens of Pisa. Similar to the cathedral and the bapistery, the cemetery features a Gothic-Romanesque style with beautiful frescoes and sculptures, making for a tranquil and culturally significant location to explore.
While we explored these architectural marvels, the children thoroughly delighted themselves frolicking through the lawn sprinklers. On a scorching hot day, this indeed was a refreshing and playful addition to our tour.
Borgo Stretto
Just next to the tower, lies Borgo Stretto. This vibrant street in the city centre is lined with shops selling souvenirs (many of them run by friendly Bangladeshi salesmen), boutiques, quirky cafes, and Italian restaurants dishing out very touristic menus. The shops here house variety of colourful bags and souvenirs, perfect to take back home wit you. We picked up 2 small Pisa towers for the kids as mementos from their trip to Leaning Tower. We dined at one of the many outdoor restaurants here, soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Other things to explore in Pisa
Piazza dei Cavalieri
At a 7 minute walk from the Leaning Tower of Pisa is the square right out of the medievel era ‘Piazza dei Cavalieri’. Also known as the Knight’s square, this charming square was once the political centre of Pisa and has a rich historical background. The prominent Palazzo della Carovana is situated here, which boasts the Scuola Normale Superiore, one of Italy's most reputable universities. One, you will notice the grand Renaissance buildings in this square and two, because it is home to Italy’s prestigious universities, the square a lot of students and the vibe is unreal.
Museo Nazionale di San Matteo
Europe can’t be Europe without its impressive museums. One of the notable museums that houses an admirable collection of paintings, sculptures, and artefacts from the Pisan and Tuscan region is the National Museum of San Matteo. The artistic heritage of Pisa comes alive from the exhibits displayed in this museum.
Opening times:
Tue to Sat - 9 AM to 6:30 PM
Sun - 9 AM to 1 PM
Mon closed
Palazzo Blu
A 15 minutes walk from the Leaning Tower of Pisa and on the other side of the river Arno is a reputable art museum known as the Palazzo Blu. It was formerly a noble residence. It hosts various temporary exhibitions and cultural events featuring a diverse range of art and installations from different periods and styles.
Opening times:
Tue to Sat - 10 AM to 7 PM
Sun - 10 AM to 8 PM
Mon closed
River Arno and Bridge of Mezzo
If evening strolls are your thing, then you can easily spend your evening time strolling along the banks of the River Arno. From here you can enjoy attractive views of Pisa. Spanning the river Arno is the Ponte di Mezzo or Bridge of Mezzo and this bridge is quite the center to all the attractions surrounding it. Lungarni is one such place to be where the riverside promendaes run along both sides of the river.
And thus concludes the tale of my visit to this extraordinary architectural marvel, a testament to the limitless human ingenuity and craftsmanship. As I bade farewell, a profound sense of closure washed over me. I couldn't help but reflect on the journey I had taken, from witnessing Pisa with Papa and Mama to now sharing it with my own children. It was a poignant moment, repressing the passage of time and the continuity of generations. The memories created during this visit will forever hold a special place in my heart.
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