The Leaning Tower of Pisa (LTP)

I did make it up the LTP!

This is the view as we were lined up waiting for admission, security check etc.  No bags were allowed, but my camera and water carrier were ok - just.

Entering....

you can see and feel it is seriously tilted.

And looking outside.  Another view of the tilt - and security.

Looking up.  The section where the bells are is now covered by glass.

Then upwards.  Estimates of the number of steps varies, but 296 and 297 are the most common.  This includes the last level up to the bells which I guess is about 40 steps.  All the steps are quite low-rise, which makes them nowhere as strenuous as, say, getting up St Marys,.  The steps are deep enough for secure footing - so nothing to trigger my anxiety!

The 6th level appeared surprisingly quickly.  Then came the last 40 or so steps to the bells.  They are narrower, and more worn, but still enough area to get your foot on them!

These are the main stairs, looking downwards.

Then the level with the bells.  Some pics.
This seemed to be the tenor, hung on the side least likely to aggravate the tilt.

They are chimed.

And it is possible to climb above the bells.  But not today..

And the view.  There is the cathedral.

And this...

And the view down Via Santa maria.  The hotel is marked!

And lastly, remember those military types with guns in the fourth picture? Their transport was parked outside the cathedral.