This bell tower takes its name from the fact that it was
designed by the great artist Giotto. It rises, slender and
sheer, to the right of the cathedral. It is clad in polychrome
marble. Its plan is square and it is reinforced at the corners
by octagonal buttresses. It stands 84.7 m. tall. Giotto first
began work in 1334. By the time the artist died, he had
completed only the lower order, with its distinctive reliefs set
in hexagonal panels. Work continued under the supervision of
Andrea Pisano and was completed in 1359 under Francesco Talenti
who was responsible for the top three floors, which are marked
by broad gabled twin- and three-light mullioned windows. These
lighten the massive structure, which terminates in a high
crowing cornice. The sculptures, reliefs and statues are an
integral part of the structure and not mere decorative elements
For any information: Campanile di Giotto Tel. 055 2302885 (Opera
del Duomo) Open 8.30 19.30; Admission: € 6.00