CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – For generations of Panthers, the Campanile has been one of the University of Northern Iowa’s most recognizable landmarks. A new digital exhibit now lets website visitors explore the historic structure from perspectives they may never have seen before.

Developed by the UNI Museum, the interactive experience uses 360-degree photography to create a virtual tour of the Campanile’s exterior and interior. Visitors can look around the structure, travel through its different levels and explore points of interest highlighting its architecture, history and original musical instrument.

“There has always been a curiosity of what’s inside the Campanile. This digital tour allows all people – regardless of age or mobility – to see a long-hidden part of our campus story,” said Nathan Arndt, director and chief curator of the UNI Museum. “Curating a digital tour not only provides a unique viewing opportunity, but it also allows us to embed historical details and share them with current and future Panthers, and the wider community.” 

The exhibit also connects visitors with the history behind the Campanile’s construction. Among its featured elements is a recording of UNI President Mark Nook recreating a radio address originally delivered in 1925 by President Homer Seerley.

The Campanile digital tour is now available through the UNI Sesquicentennial Celebration website, allowing Panthers to explore the landmark from wherever they are. Its debut comes just ahead of the Campanile’s official 100th anniversary on September 19.

Visitors can also explore more of UNI’s history through sesquicentennial exhibits across campus, with the core exhibit housed in Rod Library. Additional digital exhibits available online include a history of Malcolm Price Laboratory School, the evolution of general education requirements, an interactive historical timeline and profiles of notable individuals connected to the university.