Torre del Mangia Siena - Tuscany

The Torre del Mangia is the bell tower of the Palazzo Publicco on Piazza de Campo in Siena. The tower was built in the first half of the fourteenth century by the Rinaldo brothers.
What is special is that the top of the 88 meter high tower is built in a different style than the bottom. Like the Palazzo Pubblico, the bottom is built in the Gothic style, while the top has a much more modest style. This was added to the tower a little later. There had just been a plague epidemic in the city which could explain the change of style. The bells of the tower are still used during special holidays and of course during the Palio.
The tower can be visited and climbed. You should keep in mind that it is a long climb up narrow stairs. You will be rewarded with a beautiful view over Siena and the surrounding hills and valleys.

Willem Vandenameele