An 86-metre scaffold erected in just over four months will support a five-year restoration of the Florence landmark while keeping it open to visitors.
Scaffolding has been completed around Giotto’s Bell Tower in Florence, clearing the way for the historic landmark’s first full internal and external restoration.
The 86-metre structure uses Layher’s modular steel system and was designed by Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore in collaboration with Tecno System Appalti and Layher S.p.A.
The Opera confirmed completion on 1 October, following just over four months of assembly. The restoration is expected to take around five years and cost more than €7 million, funded entirely by the institution.
The scaffold has been configured around the tower’s changing geometry and projecting architectural features, with working platforms arranged to meet the restoration team’s needs.
Samuele Caciagli, head of the Opera’s technical office, said the design sought to avoid altering the tower’s structural equilibrium while keeping its architecture visible. Components and equipment have also been selected for recovery and reuse on future projects.
Work will progress from the top down, revealing restored sections in stages. Caciagli told Italian news agency askanews that the scaffold had been designed to leave at least 60% of the marble surfaces visible.
The first stage will involve diagnostic investigations and preliminary tests to confirm the restoration approach before treatment of the stonework begins.
Visitors will continue to be able to climb the tower’s 414 steps and reach its rooftop terrace throughout the works, although views may be partially restricted.
Construction of the bell tower began under Giotto in 1334 and was completed by Francesco Talenti in 1359. Its exterior is clad in white, red and green marble.
Assembly of the scaffold also had to accommodate a pair of nesting peregrine falcons.
A photographic survey of the tower’s 149 putlog holes identified a female incubating eggs on the west side. Working with bird conservation organisation Lipu and other specialists, the Opera rescheduled assembly to avoid disturbing the nest.
Three chicks subsequently hatched and fledged successfully.
Featured image: The completed restoration scaffold around Giotto’s Bell Tower, pictured beside Florence Cathedral. Courtesy: Opera di Santa del Fiore/foto Fabio Muzzi
