The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous landmarks. Its construction began in 1173 as the bell tower of Pisa Cathedral.

 

 

Shortly after building started, the tower began to lean because the soft ground could not support its weight properly. Construction was interrupted several times and took nearly 200 years to complete. Engineers tried different methods to reduce the tilt during construction. Despite its lean, the tower remained standing through wars, earthquakes, and centuries of use. Modern restoration work stabilized the structure and reduced the angle of lean. Today, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.