Campanile in Florence is one of the most beautiful medieval towers in Italy. It was built according of Giotto’s designs and adorned by sculptures designed by Donatello and others great artists. The construction of Campanile began in 1334 under Giotto’s supervision who has been hired by Florence’s authorities for this job. Officially Giotto held title of “capo maestro”. But before his death in 1337 Giotto has finished only first tier.
After the Giotto’s death the work over Campanile has been under supervision of Andrea Pisano who just finished the work over Baptistery south doors. Pisano followed the Giotto’s blueprints and erected the second level of the tower. After Pisano the work over Campanile was continued under leadership of Francesco Talenti. He had not changed the original design of the tower but made corrections in construction’s calculations.
The height of Campanila is 84.7 meters. Interesting that when it was finished in 1324, it bypassed the ban of Florence not to build very high towers in Toscana. This ban appeared in medieval Florence in times of civil war, when different districts of city waged war one with another. To fortify themselves they built high towers. To prevent fortifying of their power and influence, central authorities of Florence proclaimed special decree which prohibited to build high towers.
Façade of the tower is adorned by the statues which portray the plots of the biblical themes. These statues are work of Giotto and Pisano. But today visitor can see their copies; the originals are kept in the Museum of Duomo which located behind the Cathedral.
As in the case of the Dome of the Cathedral you can climb to the Campanile. But be prepared to this action. Campanile doesn’t have a lift so you will all job itself. And you should overcome 414 stairs to reach the top. Of cause you will be rewarded by the magnificent view of Florence below.
