Campanile di Giotto (Giotto's Bell Tower), Florence (must see)

The renowned Bell Tower of Giotto is a standalone belfry that belongs to the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral in Florence. It was designed by the acclaimed painter and architect Giotto di Bondone, after whom it is named. Giotto is widely regarded as the first in a line of great Italian artists who contributed to the Renaissance. Soaring to a height of 85 meters, this tower stands as a remarkable example of Florentine Gothic architecture, adorned with intricate sculptural decorations and vibrant marble embellishments.

Tragically, Giotto passed away during the tower's construction, and the project had to be finished by two other architects. In addition to his contributions to Renaissance architecture, Giotto also left his mark as a skilled painter and sculptor. His artistic legacy is evident in the exquisite white, green, and red marble adornments on the tower, as well as the grand figurative cycle within the belfry, which he left unfinished.

Exploring the interior of the tower is possible, and of the three major tall structures in Florence, climbing this one is arguably the easiest. Despite the seemingly daunting 414 steps, the staircase is designed in a way that allows for rest stops along the way. Each level within the tower houses a large bell, totaling seven bells—one for each musical note. Unlike the crowded spaces of the Duomo Cathedral and the Arnolfo Tower in the Old Palace (or "Palazzo Vecchio"), the resting areas within the Giotto Tower are relatively spacious and engaging, offering visitors diverse and remarkable views of the city below.

From the very top, one can observe the Cathedral's dome and the Baptistery of San Giovanni from a unique and somewhat unconventional perspective. The sweeping view of Florence includes its timeless alleys and rooftops that have retained much of their charm over the past five centuries.

Tip:
Please note that admission to the Bell Tower is included in a combo ticket that grants access to other sites within the Duomo Cathedral complex. Keep in mind that you have 72 hours, starting from the first use, to visit all the Cathedral sites. Unlike the Duomo, no reservation is required for the belfry, although you may need to wait in a queue to enter. Fortunately, the line is usually short and moves swiftly.