Ep 7. Leaning Tower of Pisa: The New Mystery

In this episode of Unearthed, the team travels to Italy to investigate the Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of the most famous and iconic structures in the world. Despite being a symbol of architectural failure and instability, the tower has stood for over 800 years, surviving numerous earthquakes and bouts of instability. But what secrets does this tower hold, and what new mysteries can be uncovered about its construction and history?

The team begins by examining the foundation of the tower, which is composed of layers of clay, sand, and other debris. Using ground-penetrating radar and other tools, they are able to create detailed images of the subsurface layers and discover that the tower is not supported by a solid foundation, but rather by a series of wooden pilings driven deep into the ground. This discovery sheds new light on the engineering of the tower and offers clues to its remarkable durability.

The team also investigates the tower's architecture and construction, examining the materials used and the techniques employed by the builders. They discover that the tower was built in several stages over a period of two centuries, with each new stage adding to the structural complexity and the overall tilt of the tower. They also find evidence of hidden chambers and passageways within the tower, suggesting that it may have been used for purposes beyond those of a simple bell tower.

As the team delves deeper into the history of the tower, they uncover a number of surprising facts and legends. For example, they learn that the tower was once used as a laboratory by Galileo Galilei, who used it to conduct experiments on gravity and acceleration. They also investigate claims that the tower was intentionally built at a tilt, possibly as a symbol of Pisa's defiance against its enemies.

Throughout their investigation, the team must contend with the unique challenges posed by the tower's lean. Using state-of-the-art equipment and advanced techniques, they are able to create detailed 3D images of the tower's structure and pinpoint areas of instability. They also work closely with a team of engineers and architects to develop new strategies for stabilizing the tower and preventing further tilting.

In the end, the team's investigation sheds new light on the construction and history of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, revealing its secrets and mysteries to the world. Through their groundbreaking research and innovative techniques, they help to ensure that this iconic symbol of Italian culture and history will continue to stand for centuries to come.