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Places of interest #2 in Ząbkowice Śląskie

Leaning Tower in Ząbkowice Śląskie

4.7 · 6,081 reviews
Historical and inquisitive
Leaning Tower in Ząbkowice Śląskie, Świętego Wojciecha 7, 57-200 Ząbkowice Śląskie, Poland
Interesting facts
1

The tower's tilt was officially measured at 2.14 meters, making it the most tilted structure in Poland.

2

It is often referred to as the 'Silesian Tower of Pisa' due to its notable lean.

3

The tower survived a massive earthquake that struck the region in 1590, which actually shifted the structure further.

4

The base of the tower features walls nearly 2.5 meters thick, designed originally for military defensive purposes.

5

Construction materials include a mix of granite and brick masonry.

6

The tower was part of the original medieval fortification walls that surrounded the town of Ząbkowice Śląskie.

Overview

The Leaning Tower in Ząbkowice Śląskie is a 34-meter-high medieval bell tower that tilts 2.14 meters from its vertical axis. Originally constructed as part of a defensive wall system in the 14th or 15th century, it survived the great fire of 1858 which destroyed much of the surrounding town. The structure features 139 stone steps leading to an observation deck providing views of the town and the Stołowe Mountains. The tilt is believed to be the result of a shifting swampy subsoil during construction. It functions as a local museum site highlighting regional history and seismic phenomena. The tower's walls are approximately 2.5 meters thick at the base. It remains the most prominent architectural anomaly in Lower Silesia. The site was reinforced in the 20th century to ensure structural integrity for public access.

Photo spot

From the street level looking up at the base to clearly capture the angle of the lean against the sky.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable, flat shoes to navigate the narrow and steep stone steps safely.

Visit the exhibition on the history of the town located inside the lower levels of the tower.

Check weather conditions beforehand, as the observation deck is open-air and can be windy.

What to avoid

Attempting the climb if you have severe mobility issues or claustrophobia, as the staircase is very narrow and steep.

Good to know

Operating hours are extended during the summer tourist season; reduced capacity or closures may occur during extreme weather conditions.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45-60 minutes
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn for clear visibility from the observation deck and mild temperatures while climbing.
Address
Leaning Tower in Ząbkowice Śląskie, Świętego Wojciecha 7, 57-200 Ząbkowice Śląskie, Poland
50.589, 16.810
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleMedieval defensive masonry
Key feature139-step stone staircase

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45-60 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn for clear visibility from the observation deck and mild temperatures while climbing..

From the street level looking up at the base to clearly capture the angle of the lean against the sky.

Close by you'll find Castle in Ząbkowice Śląskie, St. Ann Church, Pałac Marianny Orańskiej w Kamieńcu Ząbkowickim.