The spectacular Giotto’s Bell Tower is a truly stunning sight to see.
Being one of the four principal monuments on the Piazza del Duomo centre. Stretching up 84.7 metres in height, the structure towers above the other buildings and offers climbers extraordinary views of the city and beyond.
The tower features white, red and green marble, matching the neighbouring cathedral adjacent. Making it one of the most beautiful buildings in Italy.
The History of Giotto’s Bell Tower
The tower is one of the 14th century’s best examples of Gothic architecture in Florence. The bell tower’s construction began in 1334, led by the famous architect Giotto, hence the name. However, the work continued well after Giotto’s death, continued by Andrea Pisano to be finished in 1359 by Francesco Talenti. Due to the multiple designers of this tower, each designer put their unique feature within that blended harmonically with the entire structure. Although Giotto designed the entire tower structure, he only completed only the first part of his bell tower, including the hexagonal panels. Once Andrea Pisano began, they created a figurative narrative carved section, whereas Francesco Talenti was the mastermind behind the upper windows.
About Giotto’s Bell Tower
The bell tower’s structure is truly stunning, with the detailed decoration being the main appeal for visitors. Multiple styles are blended, with complex figurative carvings from the Middle Ages, statues from both the 14th and 15th centuries, and spectacular decorative windows which match. Each region of the tower is extremally detailed, with the levels holding a vast history as each section was built slowly and carefully. The meaning behind the work is fascinating in itself, with the lozenges shaped carvings on the tower representing the concept of Universal order and the story of Redemption. In the entire tower, there are seven bells, with each having its meaning and significance. They are known as Misericordia, Apostolica, Santa Reparata, the Assunta, the Mater Dei, the Annunziata and the Immacolata, with the largest bell, weighing 15,860 pounds, Santa Reparata, made to honour the saint the church was originally dedicated to.
Those who would like to enjoy a remarkable view of Florence can make their way up the 414 steps, stopping to see the works of art from a closer view.
