As we approached the area where the tower was situated we could see the dome of the Duomo. Then, as my eyes focused on the dome, I could see the top of the tower. What a sight! It was really exciting. As a kid I remember reading a few history books with the tower in it. Never did I imagine to see it, it was exciting. Construction began in 1173 and was completed in 1372. The soil was soft on one side and over the years began to sinkon one side, giving it a tilt. It was closed for about 10 years as it was too unsafe to enter but was reopened when they were able to tilt it back half a degree. Fun fact: it is said that Galileo stood on the top floor of the tower and dropped two cannon balls of different size to prove that the balls would still at the same time despite their side difference. Also, during WW2 it was discovered the Germans were using the tower as an observation post. They thought it was too beautiful to destroy so left it standing.
I was fortunate to climb its 290+ steps to the top. You could feel gravity pull you. There is a beautiful view from the top where you can see the whole city.
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