Abstract
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not just a quaint curiosity but a magnificent architectural treasure. Over the years its inclination has been increasing inexorably to the point where it is about to fall over. Moreover the stresses in the masonry induced by the lean have brought it close to structural failure. Stabilisation of the tower represents the ultimate civil engineering challenge. This paper describes the history of the tower and the mechanics of its behaviour, understanding of which has proved vital in the development of stabilisation measures. Early stabilisation was first achieved by placing temporary lead weights on the foundation masonry on the opposite side from the lean. Long term stabilisation commenced in February 2000 using a controversial method of soil extraction to reduce the inclination by about 10% – not enough to be visible but enough to substantially increase the safety. A long, tense journey lies ahead of the tower.
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