The Leaning Tower of Ząbkowice Śląskie

The Leaning Tower in Ząbkowice Śląskie, known as the "Silesian Pisa," is a medieval monument standing 34 meters tall with a deviation from the vertical of 2.14 meters, making it the tallest leaning tower in Poland. There are 139 steps leading to the top. The tower has a defensive character, as evidenced by the thick walls in its lower sections. The history of the structure dates back to pre-location times, with an uncertain hypothesis about a castle built by the Świdnica dukes. In the 14th century, the tower was converted into a belfry for the parish church of St. Anne, and its construction was likely completed in 1413. In 1598, the tower tilted by 1.5 meters, possibly due to tectonic movements or insufficient construction. After a fire in 1858, the Prussian authorities planned to demolish it, but the structure was eventually rebuilt, and its crown was changed to an attic. The Leaning Tower has become part of Ząbkowice's cultural landscape, hosting the annual "Days and Nights of the Leaning Tower," which attracts tourists with concerts, happenings, and exhibitions. In 2000, the tower was entered into the register of historical monuments, and after a renovation in 2019, it is open to visitors daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Due to the poor condition of the building, it was temporarily closed in 2018. The Leaning Tower remains an important tourist attraction in Lower Silesia, combining rich history with engaging cultural events.