We were excited to see the amazing Leaning Tower of Pisa! We took the train from Florence to Pisa and then traveled to the Field of Miracles. It includes three matching buildings - the Duomo, the Baptistry and the Bell Tower (or Leaning Tower).
It really is worth seeing. They built the first four levels and knew immediately it was sinking because of the soggy ground. So they abandoned the project for a hundred years. The next three levels were built, purposely slanting the other way a bit. The project was then abandoned for another hundred years. Finally, someone built the top bell part - again, slanting the opposite direction to compensate for the lean. Years later, millions of dollars have been spent trying to fix the lean (and apparently it has done some good), but I think the lean is what gives it its charm (and tourism).
Of course we had to take the cheesy, tourist pictures....it is surprisingly difficult to get that just right!
It really is worth seeing. They built the first four levels and knew immediately it was sinking because of the soggy ground. So they abandoned the project for a hundred years. The next three levels were built, purposely slanting the other way a bit. The project was then abandoned for another hundred years. Finally, someone built the top bell part - again, slanting the opposite direction to compensate for the lean. Years later, millions of dollars have been spent trying to fix the lean (and apparently it has done some good), but I think the lean is what gives it its charm (and tourism).
Of course we had to take the cheesy, tourist pictures....it is surprisingly difficult to get that just right!
A big bonus for us going to Pisa was to see Elder Mendel! We were able to visit for a minute and share some gelato with him. What a great place to serve a mission! We are happy to announce he looks great and is doing well!
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