Giotto's Campanile, Bell tower in Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Italy
Description
Giotto's Campanile is a freestanding bell tower of white, green, and pink marble on Piazza del Duomo in Florence, Italy. The facade shows Gothic arches, pointed windows, and geometric patterns rising through multiple stories, with sculptures in niches and relief panels at the base.
History
Construction began in 1334 under Giotto di Bondone's direction and continued after his death in 1337 with Andrea Pisano and later Francesco Talenti. Completion came in 1359 with a design that departed from the original plan and received a more stable upper finish.
Culture
The name honors Giotto di Bondone, though he worked on it for only three years. The bells still ring for religious festivals and special occasions, while visitors can study the relief panels showing crafts and biblical scenes on the lower floors.
Practical
The climb of 414 steps leads to an open observation platform offering views of the cathedral dome and Florence's rooftops. The stairs are narrow and steep, so the ascent is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
Did you know?
The base forms a perfect square with sides measuring exactly 14.45 meters (47.4 feet), giving the tower a rare geometric precision. Several of the original sculptures by Donatello and other artists have been moved to the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo for conservation and replaced with copies.
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Tuscany brings together some of the most important signs of Italy's past, spread across Florence, Pisa, and Siena. Each city has its own special sites: Pisa’s Leaning Tower is one of Italy’s most famous structures, while Florence has the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral with its large dome, the...
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