After 11 Years Closed, Lean Correction Stabilizes Pisa Tower by 1.5 Degrees

The Story Behind the Leaning Tower of Pisa

According to УНІАН — Туризм: Renowned worldwide as a symbol of Pisa, the Leaning Tower was shut to visitors in 1990 due to its dangerous tilt. At that time, the tower leaned approximately 5.5 degrees, dangerously close to the critical threshold of 5.44 degrees. Following an 11-year closure, it reopened to the public on December 15, 2001. Extensive engineering efforts carried out between 1998 and 2000 successfully reduced the tower's tilt to about 3.97 degrees, shifting the top back by 44 centimeters.

Construction of the tower began in 1173, and it weighs roughly 14,500 tons. Before its closure, more than 31 million tourists had visited this historic landmark. The stabilization process involved 870 tons of lead counterweights, steel cables, and reinforcing hoops. Key foundation work included carefully excavating around the base from 1998 to 2000, removing nearly 70 tons of soil beneath the structure. These preservation measures cost close to 28 million euros (around 1.3 billion Ukrainian hryvnias).

Current Condition and Visitor Information

The tower remains stable and accessible to tourists after the restoration, though it will never stand perfectly vertical due to the soft soil and unique architectural design. Since reopening, the tower has straightened slightly by about 4.5 centimeters through the late 2010s. Visitors can climb the 251 steps to the top, with the experience typically lasting around 30 minutes.

• In 2026, standard admission costs 20 euros, while combined tickets are priced at 27 euros.
• Children under 8 are not permitted inside, and minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Large suitcases are prohibited in the Piazza dei Miracoli; the maximum allowed bag size is 20×30×38 cm.
• Handbags and luggage must be stored free of charge in the cloakroom.
• Electronic tickets can be shown on a phone if they include a scannable barcode.

The tower’s lean was caused by its foundation resting on soft clay soil, which ironically helps absorb seismic vibrations. Medieval builders attempted to correct the tilt by adding extra stones on one side, resulting in the tower’s characteristic slight curve. Today, the Leaning Tower of Pisa remains a major tourist attraction and a testament to both historic architectural challenges and modern engineering achievements.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa stands as both an architectural marvel and a showcase of engineering breakthroughs that have preserved it for future generations.

Author Unknown

The stabilization project marked a crucial milestone in the tower’s history, ensuring visitor safety and preserving this iconic cultural landmark. It continues to draw tourists worldwide, illustrating the historical obstacles architects faced and celebrating the success of contemporary engineers in conserving heritage sites.