About Giotto's Bell Tower
Experience the magnificence of Giotto's Bell Tower in Florence, Italy. This striking Gothic masterpiece, standing tall next to the Florence Cathedral, is a testament to the city's artistic legacy. Marvel at the intricate marble carvings and delicate architectural details that adorn the tower's façade.
Climb the 414 steps of Giotto's Bell Tower for awe-inspiring panoramic views of Florence's iconic landmarks, including the famed Brunelleschi's Dome and the picturesque cityscape.
A visit to Giotto's Bell Tower is a journey into the heart of Renaissance art, offering a glimpse into the artistic brilliance of the renowned painter and architect Giotto di Bondone. Whether an art enthusiast or a traveler seeking breathtaking vistas, this iconic tower promises an unforgettable experience in the cultural treasure trove that is Florence.
Giotto's Bell Tower Highlights
• As per the report released by Opera del Duomo Museum, the height of Giotto's Bell Tower is approximately 85 metres or 277 feet.
• As you climb up to Giotto's Bell Tower, it shows the difference between the height of the bell and the Duomo.
• Giotto's Bell Tower was constructed by three prime architects, including Giotto, Andrea Pisona and Francesco Talenti.
• While examining Giotto's Bell Tower, you will come across polychrome marble encrustations and rich sculptural decorations on its walls.
• The Giotto's Bell Tower, or the Florence Bell Tower, is classed horizontally into five major stages.
• The attraction has 415 steps that you need to climb to reach the top of the tower. It takes nearly 45 to 50 minutes to climb up and come down.
• Inside, the building is just as lavish as its exterior, with a grand staircase, an intricate ceiling, and a number of beautiful stained glass windows.
• Stop by exciting cafes and restaurants on your way to Giotto's Bell Tower to satisfy your hunger pangs. You can also pay your visit to Florence Cathedral and Duomo, which are located close by.
How To Reach Giotto's Bell Tower
By Foot- The total distance between Florence city centre and Giotto's Bell Tower is 650m. This distance can be covered on foot within 4-5 minutes.
Recommended Read: Things To Do In Florence
Best Time To Visit Giotto's Bell Tower
Summers and spring are considered the best places to visit as the temperature remains ideal for moving around and exploring. Mornings are considered to be the best time as it is less crowded during the early hours of the day. However, if you want to witness the mesmerizing sunset from 277 feet above the ground, visiting in the evening would be the ideal choice.
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Giotto's Bell Tower Other Essential Information
Tips To Visit Giotto's Bell Tower:
- The stairways are narrow; hence it is suggested to keep children safe while climbing.
- All foreign tourists need to carry their visa details and passports at the arrival gate.
- This tour will include a lot of walking and climbing; therefore, avoiding heels and uncomfortable clothes is recommended.
- Only 45 minutes will be given to climb up to the top of Giotto's Bell Tower.
- To avoid any last-minute cancellations, book your tickets online.
- Pictures and films taken inside the exhibit halls may be used only for personal purposes.
- Make sure to carry sunscreen and a cap or hat to protect yourself from the scorching heat.
The Hexagonal Panels
The hexagonal panels designed on the Florence bell tower represent the history of mankind starting from the west side and are inspired by Genesis. The seven hexagonal panels made in the South represent Gionitus or Astronomy, Medicine, Hunting, the Art of Building, Wool-working, Daedalus or flight and Phoroneus or Legislation. The east side of the building features five panels that show liberal arts: Social Justice, Navigation, Agriculture, Euclid and the Art of festivals. The north side of the building shows Sculpture, Harmony, Grammar, Phidias, Painting, Music and Poetry, Logic and dialectics, Arithmetic and Geometry.
The Lozenges
Coming on the next level is the Lozenges, representing a marble figure that represents the concept of universal order and also showcases the story of Redemption of Mankind. The statues are placed more as an integral part of the attraction rather than being just decorative items and requires individual consideration from the visitors.These representations include: The Planets, The four Cardinal Virtues, Geometry, Grammar, Astronomy, Music, Baptism, Holy Order and many more.
The Statues In Niches
On the next level, there are four statues on each side which have been designed in different eras. The statues on the East were designed by Andrea Pisano while Prophets designed in the South side are made in the classical style which are attributed to Maso di Banco and the four Patriarchs and prophets in the East were designed between 1408 and 1421. The North side also features four statues namely, Prophet, Habacuc, Jeremias, and Abdias.
The Three Top Levels
Built by Francesco Talenti from 1348 to 1359, each of these levels was larger than the last one. Thus, they look exactly the same in size when viewed from the bottom. From the top level, visitors can take a panoramic view of the surroundings.
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