Where is the city of Pisa? Sights of Pisa, Italy: photos and descriptions, must-sees, interesting facts and reviews from tourists. How to get there from Pisa train station

Pisa - small town ok, located near the Ligurian Sea. In the past it was a port, but now it’s just very beautiful tourist centre, famous throughout the world for his “Leaning Tower”. But Pisa is famous not only for this attraction. A bunch of unique places and ancient monuments of Italian architecture attract tourists from all over the world.

What to see in Pisa on your own?

Beautiful places and main attractions: photos with descriptions in Russian.

Monumental Cemetery (Campo Santo)

Founded in 1278. The outer wall is formed by 43 blind arches. Below them are tombs decorated with marble. Some of the tombs are located on the central lawn. And today they are buried in Campo Santo famous people and clergy.

There are three chapels on the territory - the Ammanati Chapel, the Del Pozzo Chapel and the Aulla Chapel. The latter contains a lamp; Galileo Galilei used it for his experiments. In addition to burials, you can examine sarcophagi and admire Roman sculptures. And also study the preserved frescoes of famous Italian masters.

Cavalieri Square

The oldest square in Pisa. Located near the Square of Miracles and surrounded by palaces and churches. Cozy place, where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle and feel the medieval atmosphere. In the old days, the city forum, now a cultural center and venue for celebrations.

The Palace of the Order of Knights (Palazzo della Carovana) is located on the square; the façade is painted with zodiac signs using the sgraffito technique. In honor of the founder of the order, Cosimo de' Medici, there is a statue in front of the palace. Now the building houses the Higher Normal School.

Pisa Baptistery

The Pisa Baptistery is considered the largest in Italy. The height is 55 meters, the diameter is more than 100 m. The three-tiered structure made of marble is decorated with stone carvings, graceful arches, and faces of saints. The baptistery was built over two centuries, which led to a mixture of Gothic and Romanesque styles of architecture. The interior is known for its unique acoustic properties.

The temple is famous for its 13th century hexagonal pulpit and font. Galileo Galilei was baptized here. No less interesting are the frescoes on themes from the Old Testament and scenes from the life of Christ.

Botanical Garden of Pisa

Botanical Garden Pisa is considered the oldest on the planet. It occupies 3 hectares of area. Walking along the shady paths of the garden, you can admire 550 species of plants. Various plantings of woody, medicinal, marsh, and Mediterranean plant species. An arboretum with stunning cedars and magnolias occupies a significant place. There is a collection of African cacti, as well as orchids, camellias and other flowers. The selection of plants “Flora of the Pharaohs” is interesting - they were used in Ancient Egypt like food, medicine and cosmetics.

Square of Miracles

Piazza de Miracoli is the main square of the city. She is the most extraordinary and original. Three snow-white marble buildings create a harmonious ensemble. A characteristic feature is the location of religious buildings on a large area, not squeezed between other buildings, and the absence of a solid stone pavement between them - the entire space is filled with green lawns, which creates an amazing combination.

The main attractions of Pisa are concentrated on it. It is a cultural monument of world significance, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1987.

Here is the famous Cathedral (Duomo), built at the beginning of the 12th century.
Everyone associates the city of Pisa with the falling Leaning Tower of Pisa, the construction of which lasted from 1173 to the middle of the 14th century.

Another decoration of the square is the Pisa Baptistery, reconstructed in 1278.

Cathedral (Duomo)

Located in the very center of the Square of Miracles (Cathedral Square). Construction began in 1063 under the leadership of Bishop Busqueto. Dedicated in honor of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

It was originally planned in the form of a Greek cross with five naves. After the changes were made, three naves remained and the temple took on the shape of a Roman cross. The temple was built in a mixture of different styles - Romanesque, Moorish, Byzantine, which gives it a unique appearance.
The consecration of the cathedral took place in 1118 by the Pope himself. At the end of the 16th century there was a fire in the cathedral, which destroyed almost all works of art. Only a mosaic from the early 14th century depicting Christ has survived to this day.

The facade is decorated with columns supporting arches, statues, and stone carvings, which gives it airiness and lightness.

The interior of the cathedral is characterized by multi-colored masonry imitating the Byzantine style. The ceilings and vaults are richly decorated with gilding, frescoes, stucco, and carvings.

• Address: Piazza Duomo, Pisa, Italy.
• Working hours:
  - October: from 10 to 19.
  - November and February: from 10 to 17. From December 25 to January 7 - from 9 to 18.
  - March: from 9 to 18 (until March 13),
  — from March 21 to September: from 10 to 20.
• Entry closes 30 minutes before closing.
• Liturgies: daily 8 - 9:30.
• Cost of visit: € 2.00.
• From November 1 to March 1 - free.

Leaning Tower of Pisa (Torre pendente)

A world-famous symbol of both the city of Pisa and the whole of Italy. It is the active bell tower of the Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta). Construction began in 1173. There is no specific information about the architect in historical sources. Construction was repeatedly suspended and resumed.

The tower acquired its unusual inclined appearance due to an error in the calculations of this unknown designer. On sandy soils, it shrinks on one side already at the stage of constructing the first floor. Further attempts to complete the tower did not bring success. Only in the 19th century was the upper tier completed with almost no slope.

After construction was completed, a lot of money and time was spent on strengthening the bell tower. Thanks to work carried out in 1996 to excavate the soil and install cables inside the tower structure, it was possible to stop the increase in the angle of inclination.

It is also famous for the fact that the medieval scientist Galileo Galilei, a native of Pisa, conducted his experiments on gravity on this bell tower.

• Address: Piazza del Duomo, Pisa, Italy.
• Opening hours: daily - from 8.30 to 20.30, from June 14 to September 15, even night visits are allowed (from 20.30 to 23.00).
• Cost of visit: € 18.

University of Pisa

The year of foundation of the university is considered to be 1343, when the right of public education and recognition of the qualifications of graduates was assigned to it by a bull of the Pope. Not many educational institutions of that time had such status.

The subjects taught at that time were theology, civil and canon law, and medicine. The university was then called “Studium”. The university was closed and reopened several times. In 1544, a Botanical Garden was founded under him, which is still in operation today.

In the 15th century, a new building for the university was built on the territory of the ancient square, the gate of which was decorated with a cherub. Since then it has become the symbol of the University of Pisa.
Galileo Galilei studied and then taught at the university, and was a professor of mathematics from 1582 to 1592.

Currently, students are taught at 11 faculties. There are 5 museums on its territory. In the medical museum there is an anatomical exhibition somewhat reminiscent of the St. Petersburg Kunstkamera.

• Address: Lungarno Pacinotti, 43 - 56126 Pisa,

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

This is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture. Built in 1230, it was called Santa Maria di Pantenovo. In 1333, she acquired a sacred relic - a thorn from the crown of thorns placed on the head of Jesus. After which they began to call her “Back” (thorn).

In the second half of the 19th century, the church was dismantled and moved to a new location, as a result of which it was slightly modified. Now it stands at the very edge of the Arno embankment, next to the bridge.

The cladding of the temple uses white, pink and gray marble, alternating with stripes. On the facade, the entrance openings are surrounded by semicircular arches. Above them rise triangular pediments with rose windows. And in the middle there is a chapel with a figure of the Virgin Mary and Child surrounded by angels. The right side is decorated big amount columns, statues, amazing carvings, medallions.

The interior of the church consists of a single hall, the ceiling of which was painted in the 19th century during restoration. It is decorated with a sculpture of Our Lady of the Rose, which preserves traces of the original painting from the mid-14th century. In the niches are statues of the holy apostles.

• Address: Lungarno Gambacorti, 56125 Pisa PI. Opening hours: daily except Monday.

Church of San Ferdiano (Chieza di San Ferdiano di Pizza)

The first written evidence of the temple dates back to 1061. The Buzzaccherini-Sismondi family was considered the patrons of the church, dedicating it to the Great Martyr Martin. The church was built with three aisles and austere.

The facade of the church is strict and unpretentious, made in the ancient Roman style. Rectangular window and door openings are decorated with columns with flat arches without any frills or special decorations. High above the entrance, in the central nave, there is a large window with arched openings. On either side of it are diamond-shaped windows.

The interior of the temple, despite the fire at the end of the 17th century, was preserved quite well. The huge painted cross attracts attention. The vaults of the central nave are decorated with frescoes. Numerous marble columns supporting the vaults of the naves are decorated with carved capitals.

Nearby buildings house the offices of various public organizations related to the Catholic Church.

• Address: Piazza San Ferdiano, 1−3 56126 Pisa PI, Italy

National Museum of San Mateo

The museum is located on the right bank of the city, on the embankment of the Arno River. The museum building dates back to the 11th century. It originally housed a monastery. In the 13th century, reconstruction was carried out to increase the area of ​​its buildings.

The museum's exhibitions contain magnificent collections of historical, cultural values ​​and archaeological finds. For a long time, the museum collected everything valuable and beautiful that was in collapsing or closing churches.

The museum's exhibits date from the 12th to 17th centuries, with works of art dating from the 13th to 15th centuries representing the greatest artistic interest. Among them are a collection of painted crosses, a Bible from 1168 with illustrations, various sculptures by outstanding masters, and unique paintings by artists of the Tuscan school.

The complex of buildings of the National Museum itself is also interesting. It contains a courtyard surrounded by a gallery with columns and arches, which was built in the 15th century.

• Address: Piazza S. Matteo In Soarta, 1, 56126, Pisa PI, Italy
• Opening hours: Monday - Friday - from 9.00 to 14.30, Saturday - from 9.0 to 13.30.
• Cost of visiting: full - 6.50 euros, reduced - 1.5 euros.

Basilica of San Piero Grado

Is one of the oldest Christian churches on the territory of Italy. Located in the quarter of the same name near the city. There is a legend that at this place in 44 AD. Saint Peter set foot on Italian soil and celebrated his first mass.

Excavations have shown that the basilica stands on the site of an ancient Roman sanctuary and an early Christian temple. The building that has survived to this day dates back to the 10th-11th centuries. On the plan it has a cruciform shape with a nave in the middle and borders on the sides. On the south side there are three apses.

The exterior of the basilica, designed in the Romanesque style, is strict and majestic in its solitude and significance. The outer walls are made of rough yellowish stone. The facade of the basilica is decorated with pilasters, arches and bowls with some Islamic overtones.

The interior decoration is distinguished by a large number of ancient frescoes dating back to the 14th century. Above the supposed place of the first prayer of St. Paul's ciborium was erected on the soil of Italy in the 15th century. The main altar is decorated with a large wooden crucifix.

• Address: Via Vecchia Marina 5, San Piero a Grado - Pisa, Italy.
• Opening hours: daily from 8.00 to 19.00
• Cost of visiting: admission is free.

Church of San Sisto

Located in the historical center of the city, near the Square of Miracles. The first mentions of it appeared in the 11th century. At that time, important notarial acts were performed in the temple, and documents on them were kept.

The church is dedicated to Saint Sixtus, who was the patron saint of the city. After the horrific defeat in the naval battle of Milor on the day of St. Sixtus, the townspeople no longer began to honor the saint.

The exterior of the temple is designed in the Romanesque style, strict, without unnecessary decorations, made of grayish-sand stone. A classic three-nave plan was used. On the facade, each nave has its own portal, decorated with an arch. The naves are separated by pilasters. In the central one above the entrance there is an arched window with a cross above it.

The interior decoration of the church is modest; the side chapels are separated from the central aisle by ancient Roman columns with pilasters. A copy of the 14th century painting “The Virgin and Child,” a medieval ship’s wheel, and the tombstone of an Arab emir are kept here.

• Address: Piazza Buonamici, Pisa
• Opening hours: 8.00−17.00

Palazzo della Karovano

It is an undoubted decoration of the Square of the Knights (Piazza dei Cavalieri). The palace was built for the knights of the Order of St. Stephen by order of the Duke of Tuscany, who founded this order. Initially, the palace was called, like the square, Palazzo della Caballero (Palace of the Knights). The order was originally intended to fight the Saracens. Later, his knights began to escort caravans with cargo, and future knights were trained in this palace. And so this name stuck to it.

Built in 1662 - 1664. The design of the façade makes this palazzo unique. Its main decoration is a gable staircase with a balustrade. The entire facade is painted with symbolic signs of the zodiac and various allegories of chivalry. In the niches above the windows are busts of Tuscan dukes, who were also masters of the order.

Particularly interesting in the interior of the palace is the stained glass window depicting a knight's cross on the roof above the top flight of the main staircase. The building currently houses the École Normale Supérieure University.

• Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri.

Scotto's Garden (Giardino di Scotto; Cittadella Nuova)

The garden is located on south coast of the Arno River, on the site of the former new Cittadella Nuova, a fortress that was located on the Fibonacci embankment between the Victoria and Fortezza bridges.

In this part of the city in the 13th century, artisans engaged in the production of ceramics lived. For its manufacture, as well as for smelting bells, some plants specially planted in this area were used.

The garden was originally laid out in the mid-14th century during the first Florentine conquest. Subsequently, the citadel was destroyed during the uprising, and the park was badly damaged. With the re-arrival of Florentine power and the pacification of resistance, it lost its defensive purpose and was dismantled.

In 1178, the merchant Scotto, after whom the park is named, acquired it and began construction of a palace surrounded by a large garden. The construction and formation of the park was entrusted to the architect Giovanni Caluri.

Currently, it hosts various entertainment events.

• Address: Lungarno Leonardo Fibonacci, 56125 Pisa
• Opening hours: daily.

Museum of Ancient Ships (Museo delle navi antiche)

During renovation work in 1998 at the San Rossore station, builders discovered 30 ancient ships. Their age ranges from the 2nd century BC. until the 7th century AD In ancient times there was a port in this place.

Almost half of the discovered ships and boats were in perfect condition due to being in the ground without access to oxygen. Fishing nets and rigging, things belonging to sailors, various amphorae, jewelry, anchors, and work tools were found in the holds. The ships found belong to different areas of the Mediterranean.

The building of the ancient Arsenal, built by the Tuscan Duke Casimo I for the storage and repair of his fleet, was given over to the museum.

Now the museum has two halls in which the best-preserved ships are exhibited. The remaining finds are still under restoration. The museum premises are being completed to expand the exhibition.

• Address: Via Ranussio Bianchi Bandinelli, Pisa
• Opening hours: Friday - Sunday 10.00−11.00, 14.30−16.30.
• Cost of visiting: adult - 6 euros, children under 6 years old - free.

Church of San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno

The Church of St. Paul bears great resemblance to the Duomo Cathedral. Before its construction it was the main cathedral of the city. It is located on the banks of the Arno River, as the name suggests.

The first information about it dates back to the beginning of the 10th century. It has a characteristic appearance of the Romanesque-Pisan style, which has features of both Romanesque buildings and Arabic features. From 1565 to 1798 the church was administered by the Order of St. Stephen. After its abolition it became a parish church.

The façade is decorated with three portals with solid arches above them and stone carvings. The three upper tiers contain galleries with rows of columns and arches. The plan has the shape of a cross. The central nave is separated from the side borders by rows of marble columns decorated with carvings. In the center it is crowned with a dome.

The interior is richly decorated with frescoes by ancient masters with images of the Madonna and Child, and a medieval Crucifixion is kept. But the most unusual attraction of the church is the ancient Roman sarcophagus, which was used as a tomb.

• Address: Pizza, San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno, 21

Citadel with Guelph Tower (Torre Guelfa)

This is one of the very interesting attractions of Pisa. In the Middle Ages, Guelphs were the name given to participants in the movement to reduce the influence of the Holy Roman Emperor in Italy and strengthen the power of the Vatican.

The citadel was built in the mid-13th century. Located in the western part of the Arno River embankment and was integral part city ​​defensive wall, which performed a protective function against attacks from the sea.

From the first half of the 15th century, it housed the garrison of the city of Pisa. The citadel is located next to the bridge. During the reign of the Medici, an arsenal was built nearby, which now houses a museum. Over time, the sea went away, the river became shallow and sea ​​vessels they could no longer approach the city.

During World War II, it was heavily damaged during bombing. The restoration was carried out in 1956, giving it the most original appearance.

• Address: embankment of the Arno River.

Church of Santo Sepolcro

The exact date of construction of this church is unknown, but it is assumed that its construction was in the first quarter of the 12th century. It was originally built by order of the Hospitallers. Its name means “Church of the Holy Sepulchre” and it was intended to store relics brought from the Holy Land by Bishop Dagobert after participating in the First Crusade, when crusading knights captured Jerusalem in 1099. Its multifaceted shape evokes associations with the real Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount.

The church has an octagonal shape, on each side there are two arched windows, and an octagonal dome rises in the center of the roof. Outwardly, it resembles a defensive tower - the influence of the customer knights was felt.

After the liquidation of the Hospitaller Order, the Church of Santo Sepolcro was owned by the Knights of Malta. After the abolition of this Order in 1817, it began to gradually collapse. During the restoration in 1849, the temple was returned to its original medieval appearance. The tomb of Maria Mancini, a 15th-century fresco depicting the Madonna and Child, is kept here.

• Address: piazza S. Sepolcro, 56125 Pisa PI.

Museum Ospedale Nuovo di Santo Spirito

Among the bright, light-filled attractions of Piazza del Duomo, this building causes some confusion among visitors. A long, gloomy, squat building, without much decoration, in sharp contrast to the Gothic masterpieces located nearby.

Initially, it was not intended for the ascension of the spirit, but for the mortal body. Since 1257, it has housed a hospital for the poor, wandering pilgrims, and abandoned children.

During the reign of the Medici, the hospital was remodeled in accordance with the Florentine style of the time, with rectangular windows and sandstone finishing.

Currently, there is a museum of sinopias - a rough drawing of a fresco, which seems to be from the inside out. After the bombing in 1943, many frescoes were damaged in Campo Santo. They were removed for restoration, and underneath them were these sinopias, made using the same technologies as the original ones.

• Address: Piazza del Duomo, Pisa, Italy.
• Opening hours: in winter - 9.30 - 16.30, in summer - 8.00 - 20.00.
• Cost: 6 euros.

Museum "Opera del Duomo"

Located next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The construction of the building dates back to the 12th century, commissioned by the Archbishop of Pisa for the College of Priests. In the 17th century, the premises were transferred to the construction of a seminary, then the Academy of Fine Arts was located, and even later a convent was settled.

And only in 1986, a museum was founded here, which stores the most valuable objects and parts of the interiors and decorative finishes of architectural monuments located on the Square of Miracles.
The museum houses works by outstanding sculptors Tino da Camaino and Giovanni Pisano. Among the particularly interesting exhibits there are authentic 15th-century doors by the architect Bonanno Pisano with relief images of scenes from the life of Christ.

Also among the exhibits, the sculpture “Madonna and Child”, made by Giovani Pisano, deserves special attention. Previously, it was located above the Bonanno portal.

• Address: Piazza del Duomo, 23, 56126 PI, Italy
• Opening hours: 8.30 - 17.30
• Cost of visiting: 10 euros for visiting all monuments.

Palazzo del Orologio (Palazzo della Gherardesca)

It is often called the Clock Palace. Located in Piazza Cavalieri on the north side next to the Palazzo della Carovana.

On the left side of the building, in which the outlines of an ancient tower can still be seen, according to legend, Count Gherardesca and his relatives were starved to death at the end of the 13th century.

By the beginning of the 17th century, the building acquired its modern appearance. The architect Giorgio Vasari connected the Ugolino tower with the neighboring palace, standing at an angle to it, with an elegant arch. The result was an original palace in the shape of a book.

Like all the buildings on this square, the palace was owned by the Order of St. Stephen. It housed a hospital for old knights. At the end of the 17th century, a clock and a small bell on the roof appeared on the middle part of the palace.

For some time at the beginning of the 20th century, the building was owned by a descendant of Count Gherardesque. Currently, the École Normale Supérieure houses its library there.

• Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri.

Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri

Another ancient landmark of Piasa dei Cavalieri. Bala was built at the end of the 16th century. The Duke of Tuscany, Casimo I de' Medici, being Master of the Order of St. Stephen, ordered the reconstruction of the square and all the buildings on it were built for this Order.

The church building was built on the site of an older Romanesque structure. The facade is decorated with a red and white Maltese cross. Above the portal is the Medici coat of arms, surrounded by balls and with the same Maltese cross. Externally, the church is designed in the Renaissance style.

The interior decoration of the church is very interesting and original. The vaults are decorated with frescoes, images of the Maltese cross in relief medallions, and sayings from Holy Scripture. The walls are decorated with Turkish banners and ship lanterns obtained in naval battles of the 16th - 18th centuries. The main altar is made of multi-colored marble with gilded sculptures.

• Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri.
• Opening hours: daily.
• Cost of visiting: free.

Medici Palace

It is located a few hundred meters southeast of Piazza Duomo. Construction began in the first quarter of the 13th century on the foundations of a building from the 11th century.

After the conquest of Pisa by Florence, the palace became the property of the Medici family. The King of France, Charles VIII, was a guest in this palace in 1494.

WITH late XIX century, the restoration of the palace was carried out by order of the daughter of Vittorio Emmanuel II. As a result, it acquired a neo-Gothic appearance with arched windows and an attached turret with crenellated ends. The outer walls are clad in rough, uncut stone, giving it a rugged, warlike appearance. One of the corners of the building is decorated with the Medici family coat of arms.

The courtyard is surrounded by a gallery decorated with graceful columns. The palace itself is three-story. On the upper floor there were living rooms, on the lower floors there were magnificently decorated halls for holidays and celebrations. The palace had its own chapel, richly painted with frescoes. Now the palace houses the prefecture.

• Address: Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini, 7, 56127 Pisa PI, Italy

Art Museum Blue Palace (Palazzo Blu)

Located in the historical center of the city on the Arno River embankment. The palace is not characterized by architectural delights. It is especially noteworthy and original due to its unusual dark blue coloring, which was discovered during the restoration of the building.

This color is not typical for Italian architecture. After the reconstruction of the palace, it was sold in the 18th century to the head of the Greek-Russian College. Since cultural cooperation between Italy and Russia was greatly developed at that time, the Blue Palace was decorated in the style of St. Petersburg palaces and painted in the dark blue color characteristic of St. Petersburg architecture.

Currently it hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events Pisa. The main advantage of the Blue Palace is its interiors, which have preserved their original interiors and furnishings.

• Address: Lungarno Gambacorti 9.
• Opening hours: 10.00−15.00.
• Cost of visiting: free.

Piazza delle Vettovaglie

The formation of the square took place in the middle of the 16th century during the reign of the Medici dukes. They built a lot of new buildings in the city or reconstructed old ones.

Here was a very busy quarter, in which the palaces of the famous Visconti and Erisi families coexisted with merchants' shops and boarding houses.

The square has a quadrangular shape, surrounded by Renaissance-style galleries with arcades and columns topped with capitals. Grayish sandstone was used in the construction of the buildings.

It was adapted for a market where a large number of products were sold. To maintain cleanliness and hygiene, a fountain was built, fed from an aqueduct.
On the ground floors there were shops, the upper floors were occupied by residential premises for rent.

And in modern conditions area remains shopping center city, there are many shops, boutiques, cafes and restaurants.

• Address: Piazza delle Vettovaglie, 38, 56126 Pisa.

Palazzo al Borgo di Corliano

In a cozy valley between the cities of Lucca and Pisa there is a magnificent villa. Nearby is the small cozy town of San Giuliano Terme.

It was built for one of the rich merchants of Pisa as a summer residence. Next to the villa there are outbuildings dating back to the 17th century and of historical value. The facade is decorated with a gable porch with a niche in the center. The portal is surrounded by pilasters, with three arched windows on each side. In the center of the building there is a dome on a drum, in which arches are cut. The outer walls are painted with graffiti with various symbols and allegories.

The vaults of the central hall and lobby are painted with amazing frescoes of the 18th century with images of the signs of the zodiac, castles, and the villa itself. Spread around big park on several hectares, which received its present appearance in the 19th century.

Church of St. Nicholas (Chiesa di San Nicola)

A few hundred meters south of Piazza Duomo is the Church of St. Nicholas. The first mentions of it are found in documents of the 11th century. It was made in the Romanesque-Pisan style. Stone from different quarries was used for construction, so the walls have a non-uniform color.

The façade was built in the 12th century. It is decorated with an entrance portal framed by pilasters, arched windows, and mosaics. Above the portal there is a round rose window, typical of Gothic style. During the reconstruction carried out in the 17th century, the Chapel of the Sacrament and two side altars were built.

To the left of the entrance stands an amazing bell tower, not inferior in beauty to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. And it also has a slight bias. The octagonal tower is decorated with pilasters connected by arched arches. At the top there is a hexagonal belfry with arched windows. There is a bell hanging in each window. It ends with a cone-shaped dome. At the bottom, the belfry is surrounded by an arched gallery, which makes the bell tower look like the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The temple is decorated with the creations of masters of the Baroque era; statues of the 14th-15th centuries by Giovani and Nino Pisani are kept here.

• Address: Via Santa Maria, 2, 56126 Pisa PI
• Opening hours: from 9.00 to 18.00
• Cost of visit: free

Pretorio Palace

Next to the Ponte di Mezzo on the Galileo promenade is the Praetorian Palace. It was built in the Middle Ages, for some time it was the residence of the governor, the Academy of Arts and even a prison.

Built, as often happened in those days, by merging two towers. To make the association more harmonious, it was decided in 1785 to reconstruct the building. The façade was completely rebuilt, decorated with marble tiles and friezes, and a clock tower was installed.

Palazzo Pretorio has been destroyed several times throughout its history. In 1846, as a result of an earthquake and during the bombing of the Second world war. In the fifties, during restoration, it was strengthened with reinforced concrete structures, the portico along the facade was expanded, and the height of the tower itself was increased. Currently, the Palace houses the city library.

• Address: Lungarno Galileo Galilei, 43, Pisa, 56125, Italy.

Church of Sant'Antonio (Chiesa di Sant "Antonio Abate)

It was built in 1341 at the same time as the abbey. In 1392, a reconstruction was carried out, the results of which have not been preserved. At the beginning of the 15th century, the facade was decorated with a two-color marble group. The façade is decorated with three semicircular arches supported by white marble pilasters. The portal is decorated with a series of pilasters supporting tapering arches.

The upper tier, separated from the lower by a strict cornice, is decorated with a relief coat of arms with monograms. The tympanum of the pediment is smooth, without decorations.

The interior of the church is ascetic, without elaborate decorations. The walls are lined with gray-white stone with horizontal stripes. The main altar, made in the form of a central and two side niches, is decorated with a gilded crucifix against the backdrop of a pointed arched window and organ pipes. Our side ones are decorated with iconostases.

But of particular interest to tourists is the mural on the back wall of the church, made in 1989 by Keith Haring in the graffiti style and called “Tuttomondo”. Image size 1000×1800 centimeters.

• Address: Piazza Sant'Antonio, Pisa, Italy.
• Opening hours: daily.
• Cost of visiting: free.

Quarter of San Martino

In the southeast of the city is the quiet and modest district of San Martino. It runs parallel to the Galileo Galilei promenade and Via San Martino.

The main attraction of this area is the Church of the Holy Sepulcher (Chiesa di Santo Sepolcro). It is notable for the fact that it contained relics brought from Jerusalem and captured during the Crusades. With its octagonal appearance, the church resembles the Jerusalem Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount.

The undoubted decoration of the quarter is the Lanfranchi Palace - one of the oldest and most beautiful palazzos in the city. Famous for the large reliefs depicting coats of arms that decorate its walls.

In the same block is one of the favorite recreational spots of the townspeople, the magnificent Scotto Garden, or as it is also called Cittadella Nuova.

Via San Martino can be proud of a large number of beautiful palaces - Palazzo Cervoli, Palazzo Tizzoni.

In silence from the main tourist routes You can fully enjoy the beauty and spirit of the medieval city.

Natural Park "San Rossore Massaciucoli"

The park is located on territory previously occupied by swamps and creeks on the sea coast of two provinces - Pisa and Lucca. The Arno and Serchio rivers, overflowing, gradually brought soil here from the upper reaches. Under the Medici Dukes, land reclamation work was already carried out on these fields.

The ecosystem of this park is rich in diversity. It combines and coniferous forests, and rolling dunes, and luxurious beaches. The most good beaches think Marina de Vecchiano and Tirrenia. Significant wetland areas are the San Rossore marshes and Lake Massaciuccoli.

The characteristic features of the park are the richness of reliefs, including dunes, swamps, beaches, cultivated areas, and forests. This allows numerous birds and wild animals to live freely in this territory.

In the territory Natural Park there are three villages whose residents engage in traditional activities economic activity: livestock breeding, sheep breeding, pine nut collection, agricultural activities. Also famous are the horse races held every year in the village of San Rossore.

Palazzo dei Lanfranchi

The name of the palace comes from the aristocratic Lanfranchi family, which bought and restored the house in 1539.

The palace is a striking example of medieval architecture of Pisan - the result of combining several tower houses from the turn of the 13th-14th centuries into a single whole.

The façade was designed according to the wishes of the Lanfranchi family and retains some Renaissance elements. The building's masonry features modern white stone in stark contrast to the ancient brick walls.

The entrance portal is framed by stacked columns supporting the balcony. Above it is a relief coat of arms. The windows are framed by pilasters and stacked columns.

Now the palace houses the city Graphics Museum, which has a permanent exhibition and regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.

• Address: Lungarno Galilei, 9 - Palazzo Lanfranchi 56100 Pisa
• Opening hours: from 10.30 to 18.30
• Cost of visit: 3 euros.

Palazzo Cevoli

One of the luxurious palaces that adorn Via San Martino is Palazzo Cevoli. Since the 18th century, it belonged to a wealthy Pisan family, originally from the village of the same name among the Tuscan hills.

The palace building combines two towers, which are relatively well preserved. The façade is decorated with several columns on which arches rest. The windows are decorated with platbands and cornices. The interiors are richly decorated with frescoes.

During the renovation work, fragments of 14th-century frescoes with images of saints' heads were discovered.

The Danish king Federico IV, who was in Florence not only on a political but also a romantic visit, lived for some time in Palazzo Cevoli. In honor of this visit, inscriptions in Latin were made on the pediment.

• Address: Via San Martino, 108, Pisa, Italy.

Italian elegance, unique atmosphere, friendliness, comfort and coziness - this is what modern Pisa means!

The city of the Leaning Tower is famous all over the world. It would be wrong to think that the tower alone attracts tens of thousands of tourists here every year. Of course, the times when the glory of Pisa, a formidable maritime power, thundered throughout Europe are long gone. Unique buildings remain from those times: churches, towers, city walls. Today Pisa is a small city with a population of about 100 thousand people, more than half of whom are students of the famous University of Pisa. So, in addition to visiting historical sights, there is something to entertain yourself in the city.

Tourists usually leave Pisa, as they say, “for dessert”. In fact, the city is not big; a day is enough to explore it. Just believe me, this day should be full. In this article I will tell you what you need in Pisa see,where to go And what to try.

In Pisa, despite her small sizes, there is what and where to choose from housing. Of course, the most expensive hotels located in the center: on the Arno and in the Centro Storico. The price is determined by proximity to attractions and views from the room window. The closer your hotel is to the Leaning Tower, the higher the price. Often these hotels occupy ancient buildings that are not equipped with elevators, have no parking, and the size of the rooms is simply tiny.

I must say that area around the train station not as noisy as others Italian cities. There are many hotels, hostels, B&Bs. Even if the views from the window are not the most picturesque, modern hotels will offer you spacious rooms with all amenities, there are also free parking, some hotels offer shuttle buses to the airport. And all this at quite affordable prices. In addition, the walk to the same Piazza dei Miracoli from here is only 20-25 minutes.

Here is a selection of discounts from booking.com:

What and where to eat in Pisa

Although Pisa is a Tuscan city, and therefore its cuisine is Tuscan, it still has its own characteristics and nuances. Italian cuisine, as a rule, does not abound in soups. In Pisa you have the opportunity to try San Michele bean soup, frog soup and the famous Pisan tagliatelle, olive and tomato soup.

There are many restaurants and cafes in the city. Restaurants located near Piazza dei Miracoli often do not differ in the quality of food and affordable prices. So follow the rule: eat where the locals eat.

Trattoria San Omobono

Excellent Tuscan cuisine, cozy design, lunch within 20-25 euros. Please note that the trattoria is popular, it is better to reserve seats.

The trattoria is open daily from 12:30 to 14:30 and from 19:30 to 22:00, on Sundays only from 12:30 to 14:30.

Address: Piazza Sant'Omobono, 6.

Pizzeria-trattoria La Buca

Pizza and Tuscan cuisine are in close proximity to the main attraction of Pisa, but there are no abundance of tourists here. Lunch - around 30 euros. It is located right behind Piazza dei Miracoli.

The pizzeria is open every day except Sunday from 12:15 to 14:30 and from 19:15 to 22:30.

Address: Via Galli Tassi, 4 −6b/ Via Santa Maria, 171.

Osteria In Domo

It is located very close to the Square of Miracles, but amazingly, tourists don’t know about it, but local residents very much appreciated. Excellent food, Tuscan cuisine, leisurely and friendly service. The average bill is about 30 euros. The portions are impressive.

Opening hours: daily from 11:30 to 23:00, on Monday from 9:00 to 15:30.

Address: via Santa Maria, 129.

What to see in Pisa

Pisa, unlike Florence, is not so rich architectural monuments. There are far fewer of them here. But with what this city has, Pisa can outshine many of its competitors in the tourism business. I offer you a route through the main attractions of Pisa from the train station to the Square of Miracles.

I'll tell you what to see in Pisa besides the tower.

Map of Pisa

Fetching directions......

Church of San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno

No document indicates when this church was built. The first mentions of it date back to the 10th century. One of the most beautiful Romanesque churches in Tuscany, it has been rebuilt several times. In the 12th century it was given a similarity to a cathedral. The Pisans called and call this church “Duomo Vecchio” - the Old Duomo. Construction of the existing façade of the church began in the 12th century and was completed in the 14th. Stored inside the church 13th century crucifix, frescoes by Buonamico Buffalmacco, "Madonna and Child" by Turino Vanni,Ancient Roman sarcophagus from the 2nd century. Behind the church is the 11th century chapel of St Agatha with amazing wall paintings. Due to restoration work, the church is closed to visitors, but it is worth visiting the building itself - it is very beautiful.

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

Small gothic church on the banks of the Arno dates back to the 13th century.

This elegant architectural box was originally called Santa Maria Pontenovo because it was located near a bridge that was later destroyed. Since the 14th century, a relic has been kept in the church - thorn from Christ's crown of thorns. Therefore the church changed its name to Spina, which means "thorn". In the 19th century, due to the threat of a river flood, the church was dismantled and reassembled on a higher place. The building is richly decorated with statues of famous Pisan masters; marble of different colors is used to decorate the facades of the temple.

The inside of the church is surprisingly modestly decorated. Its main value today can be called the sculptural works of Andrea and Nino Pisano, created in the 14th century.

Church website on the Internet: ilturista.info.

The church is open to visitors:

• from Tuesday to Sunday - from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 15:00 to 18:00,
• on Saturday and Sunday - from 10:00 to 19:00 (April-September), from 10:00 to 14:00 (October-March).

Entrance - 2 euros.

National Museum of San Matteo

On the Arno embankment stands the building of the former medieval monastery of San Matteo, which now houses Art Museum. The collection contains a unique collection of paintings by Pisan and Tuscan masters of the 12th-17th centuries. A priceless collection is kept here archaeological artifacts and items from the Middle Ages. Painted crosses, wooden sculptures, bas-reliefs, ceramics, medieval manuscripts - you will find all this in the halls of San Matteo.

The museum is open every day except Monday from 8:30 to 19:00, on weekends until 13:30.

The ticket costs 5 euros.

Museum website on the Internet: sbappsae-pi.beniculturali.it.

Botanical Garden

The Orto Botanical Garden in Pisa is one of the oldest in the world

The Pisa Botanical Garden was founded in 1544 and is considered the oldest in the world. However, the famous Botanical Garden of Padua disputes this fact. It itself was founded a year later, but the Pisa Garden changed its location several times.

In the Botanical Garden of Pisa today you will see more than 550 different plants. There is a Botanical Museum on the territory of the garden.

Schedule:

• winter - daily from 9:00 to 17:00,
• summer - daily from 8:30 to 20:00.

The box office stops selling tickets one hour before the garden closes.

There is a single ticket to the museum and the garden, it’s worth it 4 euros.

Piazza dei Cavalieri - Square of the Knights

One of the main squares of Pisa lies on the site of the ancient forum Portus Pisanus - the Pisa harbor.

Both in Roman times and during the era of the Pisan Republic, political life was in full swing here. The square was surrounded by churches and palaces; victories were celebrated on the square and city problems were solved. It was here that in 1406 the Florentine envoy declared that the independent Pisan Republic no longer existed. The city was annexed to the Florentine Republic.

In 1558, the Piazza was rebuilt by Giorgio Vasari in the Renaissance style.

The square is crowned by the Palazzo della Carovana, the main building of the University of Pisa. The facade of the palace is decorated with sgraffito - a special technique of wall paintings. The façade is also decorated with 6 busts of the Grand Dukes of Tuscany.

On the other side of the square is the Palazzo dell'Orologio. The building, built in the 14th century, has undergone many reconstructions. In the 16th century, the palace received its current appearance; Vasari worked on its design. At the beginning of the 17th century, the walls of the palace were painted by artists Marucelli and Palladini. The clock was installed in 1696.

Several more palazzos and the Church of St. Stephen overlook Piazza dei Cavalieri. In the center of the square is a statue of Cosimo I de' Medici.

Piazza dei Miracoli - Square of Miracles

This square is a pearl from the collection of attractions of Pisa. This is where all the tourist people flock

The first of the buildings is the Duomo. Construction of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta began in 1064; the cathedral was consecrated in 1118, but work continued. The architecture of the cathedral includes several styles: Byzantine, Lombard, you can even find Islamic motifs, which symbolized military force and the scope of trade of the Pisan Republic. As a result, the style in which the Duomo was built was called the Pisan Romanesque style.

The interior of the cathedral was seriously changed after a severe fire in 1595. Black and white marble walls, gilded ceiling, frescoed dome. Mosaic of the apse, in which he was involved Cimabue, survived the fire, as did the marble pulpit of the work Giovanni Pisano. These masterpieces must be seen. There is a chandelier in the cathedral called "Galileo's lamp". According to legend, observing the swinging of this chandelier, Galileo discovered the isochronism of pendulum oscillations.

Baptistery of San Giovanni built in 1152-1363. It is considered the largest baptistery in the world. The building began to be erected in the Romanesque style and was finished in the Gothic style.

The first tier is decorated with Romanesque arches with narrow windows, the second and third tiers are decorated with double arches and Gothic finials. In contrast to the strict first tier, the upper tiers are richly decorated with stone carvings. The decoration of the baptistery includes many sculptures and busts. The interior decoration of the baptistery is very strict and restrained, which makes a strong impression on visitors.

In the baptistery there is a 13th-century font in which Galelio Galilei was baptized in 1564.

Inside you can see a beautifully crafted pulpit made Niccolo Pisano. It is this pulpit that is considered the first major work of the Italian Proto-Renaissance.

Behind the Duomo stands the same famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, aka the Bell Tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The tower was founded in 1173, construction was completed in 1360.

The project initially had a mistake: a small tower foundation in soft clay-sandy soil.

“When the Leaning Tower of Pisa falls, there will be one less hope in this world...” - it is unknown which great author of this immortal phrase is

The tower began to tilt after the third tier was built. Throughout the history of the tower, Pisan builders repeatedly tried to stop its tilt. At times this was successful. One day they even seriously thought about leveling it completely, but stopped in time: it was the leaning tower that attracted a lot of guests to the city and brought profit. Today, the openwork structure made of white marble attracts crowds of tourists who not only climb its tiers, but also diligently “support” the tower, posing for the photo lens.

Behind the Duomo and the Baptistery is located Campo Santo (Holy Field)- monumental cemetery. It was built between 1278 and 1464.

"Holy" cemetery of Campo Santo

This cemetery is called holy because, according to legend, the cloister building was erected on land from Golgotha, which was brought by the Bishop of Pisa after the IV Crusade.

This building is the last of the buildings that were erected in Piazza dei Miracoli. You can see three chapels, ancient frescoes, Roman and Etruscan tombs and urns.

Opposite the Duomo, the baptistery and the tower is located Sinopia Museum.

Sinopia is a preparatory drawing for a fresco, made on the wall before applying the top layer of plaster, on which the fresco itself was painted.

The uniqueness of the sinopias is that they were applied by the master, and the students then painted the fresco along his contour. Such synopias are collected in the museum.

Working hours:

• Duomo - from 10:00 to 18:00 in winter, from 10:00 to 20:00 in summer;
• Baptistery - from 9:00 to 18:00 in winter, from 8:00 to 20:00 in summer;
• Tower - from 9:00 to 18:00 in winter, from 8:00 to 20:00 in summer;
• Camposanto - from 9:00 to 18:00 in winter, from 8:00 to 20:00 in summer;
• Sinopia Museum - from 9:00 to 18:00 in winter, from 8:00 to 20:00 in summer.

Ticket prices:

• Tower - 18 euros,
• Duomo - Free admission.

Entry to the rest of Piazza dei Miracoli is of your choice:

• one object - 5 euros,
• two objects - 7 euros,
• three objects - 8 euros.

The ticket office is located in the Sinopian Museum and in the building located behind the tower and Duomo.

Tickets can be purchased on the website: opapisa.it.

In Pisa there are many more beautiful and amazing places: museums, churches, medieval towers, remains of a harbour, city walls and gates, palaces. If you wish, you can stay here for another day to calmly explore everything, enjoy a stroll along the Arno embankment, enjoy the peace of a cozy Tuscan city, and in the evening merge with young people in a nightclub or bar.

Nightlife in Pisa

The main bars, nightclubs and discos in Pisa are located along the Arno River. It is always crowded and noisy here, the music never stops.

The Wall Lunch & American Bar.

It is perfect for a holiday with a large group. They have their own signature cocktails.

The bar is open from Wednesday to Sunday, opening hours: from 19:00 to 02:00.

Address: via Cardinale Pietro Maffi, 26.

Although many believe that Pisa- a city of one attraction, Italy can be proud of the Pisans and the unique, distinctive culture that they managed to create.

Pisa: the city of the leaning tower

Even those who have difficulty guessing the existence of the city of Pisa will answer the question without hesitation as to what made the Leaning Tower of Pisa famous. The most famous bell tower in Europe has been inexorably leaning towards the ground for nine long centuries under the influence of subsidence and the armor-piercing gaze of tourists. At first glance it seems that if not for the popularity Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa itself would be lost in the list of other unremarkable Tuscan towns. Let's check if this is true!

What to see in Pisa besides the tower?

It is a shame that the world knows Pisa solely by its unofficial symbol. This is actually the most interesting old City, fraught with many secrets and mysteries, as the photos with the name and description of the sights of Pisa will convince you of.

Sights of Pisa

• Remember how Alice the fox and Basilio the cat invited Pinocchio to the Field of Miracles? I don’t know about the field, but there is the Square of Miracles (Piazza dei Miracoli) in Pisa. It is here that the Leaning Tower of Pisa is located, which does not stand on its own, but is included in the complex of the Pisa Cathedral as a bell tower. And the square is truly a miracle of miracles: wherever you look, it’s a masterpiece of architecture! Ancient Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary(Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta) was built in the medieval Romanesque style and amazes with its grandeur. When you get inside, it simply takes your breath away from the feeling of the infinity of the revealed space that arises thanks to the arched composition and the alternation of white and black marble.

  Did you know? Under the dome of the cathedral there is a chandelier, which local guides stubbornly call “Galileo’s lamp” (Lampada di Galileo). Of course, the great Galileo did not make this lamp and did not even write by its light, but, as they say, looking at its swinging, he developed the theory of pendulum oscillations. We cannot prove this, and therefore we will not refute it!

  
  
• This is also where Baptistery of St. John(Battistero di San Giovanni) - according to art historians, the largest baptistery in Italy (its height is almost 55 meters). The zest of the structure is given by the obvious mixture of stylistic eras: they began to build the baptistery in Romanesque, and finished it in Gothic, so it stands on a base of rounded, restrained Romanesque arches, and the second and third tier stretch with all their might towards the sky with pointed carved teeth.
  
• In the north of the square there is Campo Santo cemetery, or "Holy Field"(Campo Santo), in the center of which, according to legend, there is a capsule with earth brought from Golgotha ​​itself during the Crusades.
  
• Not far from the Square of Miracles on the picturesque embankment of the Arno River there is Agostini Palace(Palazzo Agostini), famous not only for its magnificent facade, decorated with intricate reliefs made of baked clay, but also for the café “Caffé dellUssero” located within its walls, where scientists and cultural figures have been gathering for 300 years. In the same building is the oldest Italian cinema, Cinema Lumiére, where sound films have been screened since 1906.
  
• Even more palaces on Knights Square(Piazza dei Cavalieri), which is no less interesting than the neighboring Square of Miracles, but much less flooded with annoying tourists. Here are the Palace of the Clocks (Palazzo dell’ Orologio) with a belfry on the roof, the Palace of the Order of St. Stephen (Palazzo della Carovana) and two small ancient churches.
  
• Palaces are palaces, but you want to taste Pisan life as it is! When you go wandering around the city, be sure to check out Borgo Stretto quarter. There are no cars here at all: the narrow streets allow you to move around on foot, or at most by bicycle. But there are more than enough cafes and restaurants, so sit down at tables directly under open air and enjoy to your heart's content the aromatic and refined Tuscan cuisine. Pisa serves spicier food than throughout Tuscany. Here you must try the San Michele white bean soup (minestra di fagioli bianchi di San Michele), frog soup (zuppa di ranocchi) and Pisa soup (zuppa pisana). For dessert, ask for Torta co’ bischeri - this is the most popular delicacy in Pisa, but it is prepared according to a special, centuries-old recipe and exclusively during the holidays of the Ascension, St. Michael the Archangel and during the spring fair.

Temples of Pisa

In Pisa great amount ancient temples, each of them has its own special flavor.

Museums of Pisa

No matter how much of a fan of walking excursions you are, sooner or later you will still want to take a breather in some cool place. The ideal solution to this problem is Pisa museums for every taste and color: here you can take a break from the frantic tourist race and learn a lot of interesting things.

What to see in 1 day in Pisa?

Pisa is a small city, its population does not even reach 100 thousand, so with a strong desire and proper organization of time, you can get acquainted with the main attractions of Pisa on your own in one day.

• Start your walking tour With Victor Emmanuel II Square(Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II) - this is especially convenient for those tourists who arrive in Pisa by train, because the square is located across the road from the train station. Stroll the streets of Pisa, go to the Arno embankment and move along it, admiring the beautiful architecture of cathedrals and palaces.
• Of course, include it in your must-see list Square of Miracles, Cathedral, Baptistery and, if you are not afraid, be sure to climb Leaning Tower of Pisa- this is exactly what most travelers frantically strive for in Pisa.
• To be in Italy and not experience the art of sweet-voiced bel canto performers? Well, I do not! Be sure to visit in the evening Verdi Theater(Teatro Verdi di Pisa) – one of the most beautiful opera houses in Italy: the creators of the theater lavishly decorated it with mosaics, columns and paintings. The theater's repertoire includes sold-out classical and modern opera productions, and the auditorium is filled not only with avid music lovers, but also with those most interested in Italian culture tourists.

Where to go in Pisa with children

If you are traveling with children and are afraid that by the end of the day they will howl with boredom, trailing behind you from Romanesque temple to Gothic temple, think in advance about how you can brighten up such an unenviable fate for your children.

• At the Sunlight Park amusement park Both children and adults will like it. There is a full-fledged water park, an area for children, and cozy cafes.
• IN entertainment center Labirinto di mais di San Rossore you will be invited to walk through a real corn field, and not just a simple one, but with a puzzling maze in the center.
• If the little brats don't run out of steam in the maze, take them to park Il Pineto Parco Avventura: let them have fun on the bungee and walk around suspension bridges among the tree crowns - isn’t this what we all dreamed of in childhood?

Amusement Park Sunlight Park

The city of Pisa and its main attractions on video

Of course, the Leaning Tower of Pisa will not give up its primacy in the tourism market for a long time, but it’s worth thinking about: aren’t we losing too much by focusing on popular attractions? Enjoy watching!

Travel, like life, becomes much more multifaceted if you are not afraid to look for something new, unfamiliar, unexplored, and believe me, this is exactly what awaits you in Pisa!

Thanks to its “leaning” tower, it is one of the most recognizable places in the world. In addition, it is a city of discovery, a famous university, many masterpieces of art, called the “gateway of Tuscany”.

Thanks to the international airport "Galileo Galilei" and a well-developed network railways seems to be an ideal starting point for exploring the entire region and the cities of Florence, Siena, Livorno, Pistoia. As we already said, Pisa The tower is one of the symbols of Italy abroad.

“Pisa, oh Pisa, I glorify you with the melody of the waters that accompanies your quiet life, for those who have at least once seen your heart in the blood of dawn and the sky blooming in the evening with stars and the magic moon.” Gabriele D'Annunzio

But it is also a beautiful historical center with narrow streets and large squares, Renaissance palaces, medieval tower houses, Gothic and Romanesque churches, shops and markets. Anyone who decides to stroll through the streets of this city will have the opportunity to admire the university buildings (1343), which were once palaces of aristocrats. The act of founding the university is the papal bull of Clementius VI, from whose time almost seven centuries have passed.

About 100,000 people live in Pisa, 35,000 of them are students. There are numerous various cultural events, festivals, many restaurants and discos.

- the center of the province of the same name, washed by the waters of the Arno River, one of the four ancient maritime republics. It is best known for its Leaning Tower, the Cathedral and the Baptistery in the Piazza dei Miracoli. Also many are attracted by the Museums of Pisa: the Museum of San Matteo (Museo di San Matteo), the Museum of Contemporary Graphics, the Blue Palace (Palazzo Blu) and Kate Haring’s last great work, “Tuttomondo” (1989). Field of Dreams (Campo dei Miracoli) – world heritage

UNESCO- one of four buildings on the “Field of Miracles” (Square of Miracles), included in the UNESCO list (along with the Cathedral of the 11-12th century, the bell tower (the leaning tower itself is the bell tower) 1173, the Baptistery of the 12-14th century with a diameter of 18 m and cemetery. The cathedral is a striking example of the Pisan Romanesque style. A true masterpiece of architecture, it contains the works of Ghirlandaio, Beccafumi, Andrea del Sarto, Cimabue, Giovanni Pisano, Giambologna. Other architectural monuments include the churches of San Frediano (chiesa di San Frediano) of the 11th-12th century. ., St. Catherine (Santa Caterina) 13-14 centuries, St. Stefano (Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri) 1569 and the palaces of the Hours (Palazzo dell'Orologio) and the Cavalry (Palazzo dei Cavalieri) When you are in the city, walk to the Square of the Cavalry. (Piazza dei Cavalieri), second in importance after the Square of Miracles, named after the papal cavalry military order that was here, known as the Sacred Order of St. Stefano. There are many churches and palaces in this square.

Walking around Pisa, if you walk along Via Santa Maria along the banks of the Arno River, you will see the beautiful Gothic St. Mary's Church(Santa Maria della Spina), which contains the thorn from the crown of Christ. Initially, the church was located very close to the river, but then it was moved due to the threat of flooding (this fate befell many ancient buildings).

The embankment is especially beautiful at night, in the light of lanterns, among the reflections of buildings in the water. This is also where National Museum of San Matteo, it is worth visiting for the works of Giunta Pisano, Simone Martini, Lippo Memmi, Francesco Traini, Masaccio, Beato Angelico, Benozzo di Lese, Ghirlandaio, Nicola Pisano and Donatello. The museum also houses valuable manuscripts, medieval ceramics and wooden sculptures.

One of the most romantic poems of all time, “To Silvia” by Giacomo Leopardi, was written during his residence in Pisa. Those who have walked along the Arno embankment should relate to these lines.

Do you remember, Sylvia, still

Your earthly and mortal life time,

When beauty shone

In your eyes, laughing and clear

And you, thoughtful, smiling,

Have you crossed the threshold of youth?..(translation by Gumilyov)

In the winter and spring of 1828 Leopardi was in Pisa. He lived in the home of a family that rented inexpensive housing to students. The two high windows of his room overlooked the vegetable garden, but with one’s gaze one could take in the entire space to the horizon. The poet went out into the city every day and walked along the embankment with a crowd of people. The daughter of the owners of the house, with whom he was friends, Teresa Lucignani, was always waiting for him on the balcony. She reminded him of Teresa Fattorini, a girl from his native Recanati who died young. Despite all his love for Pisa, Leopardi missed his home and family very much. He poured out all the feelings that he experienced in one of his masterpieces on April 19, 1828.

Second Leaning Tower of Pisa

Not everyone knows that there is another leaning tower in Pisa, less famous and significant than the one that stands in the Square of Miracles, but still capable of attracting the interest of tourists. This Bell tower of the Church of St. Michele 13th century It is also highly inclined.

The city is of Ligurian origin; in the 4th century BC. there was an Etruscan settlement here, and in 179 BC. the territory went to the Romans. They made the city the most important maritime center. The presence of the port had a beneficial effect on it in the Middle Ages, especially during the First Crusade. Later, like many cities on the Mediterranean, it experienced decline, especially due to the opposition of Genoa. The city came under the rule of the Visconti from Milan (early 15th century), then came under Florence. Despite the loss of political independence, it remained powerful cultural center, nurtured by Galileo Galilei, mathematician Leonardo Fibonacci, physicist Antonio Pacinotti. Today it retains the status of the most important research center in Italy.

Natural beauties of Pisa

Green space in the city center – Botanical Garden at the university, the oldest of its kind in the world (1544), and Scotto's Garden(Giardino Scotto), where nature is closely intertwined with history. The garden was designed at the beginning of the 19th century. Giovanni Caluri for the Scotto family.

There is much to admire in and around Pisa, from the Pisa Mountains to the vineyards and olive groves of Volterano, from the Pisa Hills to beaches, dunes and pine groves. You can ride freely here. This is also where Natural Park San Rossore Massaciuccoli (Parco Naturale di Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli), which is a bizarre mosaic of landscapes. It is open all year round and visitors have the opportunity to take excursions on foot, bicycle, horseback or in a carriage. Pisa also has a sea, with beaches, pine groves and Mediterranean shrubs. The proximity to the sea has endowed the city with a relatively mild climate and cleanliness: the sea wind carries away harmful pollution from the city, especially in winter. There are several beaches along the coast, striking in their simplicity and natural beauty.

Neighborhoods of Pisa

In the vicinity of Pisa, a few kilometers from the historical center of the city, in an 18th century palace. The Baths of San Giuliano are located. Carthusian monastery, museum natural history and the medieval fortress of Vicopisano are also worth a visit. Of particular interest is the town of Volterra, where the Etruscans and Romans left their mark. IN medieval fortress San Miniato in November celebrates a gastronomic festival dedicated to the local product - the white truffle. Also from Pisa you can go to Lucca (less than 20 km) and Pistoia (40 km).

Pisa is a city in Italy, the sights of which we will introduce you to today. Those who believe that, apart from the famous tower, there is nothing to visit here, are very wrong. This city has beautiful streets and churches, a vibrant night life and amazing cuisine. Pisa can teach you how to enjoy a slow life, enjoy the arts and appreciate simple pleasures. At least its residents do this very well.

There are many attractions in Pisa. And it's not just the "leaning tower", which is actually the bell tower of the cathedral. If you want to really get to know this city, spend at least a couple of days there to soak up its atmosphere.

How to get to Pisa

Although this is Small town, only 100 thousand inhabitants, but there is international Airport named after Galileo Galilei. You can get to the city center from the hub by train or bus. There are direct flights from Moscow to Pisa, and from St. Petersburg you can fly here with a transfer in Berlin. You can also fly here via Florence. After all, the airport of this city is only an hour's drive from Pisa. Tourists come to see its sights from other parts of Italy. In this case, it is convenient to come here by rail. Trains come here from Rome, Milan, Livorno, Lucca. The station itself is located two kilometers from the center.

Sights of Pisa: what to see in 1 day

This city is quite small, and even on foot you can get around it in a couple of hours. If you really use public transport, then perhaps by bus number 10, which goes to the beach. Some people recommend renting a bike. But experienced tourists claim that it is best to explore the city on foot.

If you come to Pisa from Rome or Florence, that is, by train, go directly from the station to Piazza del Miraco. The streets along which your route will run are very beautiful. There are many authentic restaurants and original souvenir shops. The journey will take you no more than half an hour.

In Piazza dei Miracoli there is a famous tower, which is actually a bell tower. Other iconic landmarks of Pisa are nearby. It won’t be difficult to see them in one day, because they are all located just a stone’s throw away. This Cathedral The Duomo is the largest baptistery in Italy and the cemetery of Santo Campo.

In the neighboring streets, as well as in another of Pisa’s most beautiful squares, Piazza dei Cavalieri, you can see patrician palaces. Two palazzos are especially luxurious - Orologio and Carovana. And if you have time, visit the Gothic church of Santa Maria della Spina, on the left bank of the Arno River.

Tower

This bell tower began to be built in the 12th century. It was an integral part of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Ascension. But it is interesting that the bell tower itself began to be erected at some distance from the temple itself, which is rare. Perhaps the reason for this was the layout of the square where the cathedral stood. But be that as it may, it was this bell tower, and not the church, that became one of the most visited attractions in Italy.

Pisa stands on clay soils, and when the bell tower was built, it turned out that the soil underneath was subsiding. She began to slowly bend over. Therefore, protective and restoration work on it began in the Renaissance, and continues to this day. The fact is that the bell tower does not just fall, it swings, sometimes returning to a vertical position. This white seven-story tower has ornate architecture, and its snow-white silhouette looks great against the blue Italian sky. Inside it there are covered arched galleries with ornaments with images of sea inhabitants. The bells on the belfry are real - one of them weighs 3.5 tons.

Cathedral

Most tourists who come to see the sights of Pisa focus on the tower. But the Duomo Cathedral is the main building of the Square of Miracles. It is very ancient and built in a specific Romanesque style with Pisan characteristics. It was clearly influenced by Orthodox Byzantine basilicas. The cathedral was built of gray stone and white marble. The façade is decorated with mosaics. It consists of inclusions of colored marble. There are many ancient statues on the facade and exterior of the cathedral. But its interior decoration can be inspected endlessly.

Although the church suffered from fires, frescoes are still preserved on its dome, as well as a mosaic image of Christ and the Virgin Mary. The cathedral houses a priceless 14th-century carved pulpit made by Giovanni Pisano. And the granite columns supporting the vault were moved here after the conquest of Sicily from the Saracens. They used to stand in a mosque in Palermo.

Cemetery and baptistery

To the north of the Duomo, literally in the same square, is the “Holy Field”. This historical cemetery is one of the interesting attractions of Pisa. Legend says that the local archbishop, after returning from the Crusade, threw a handful of earth from Jerusalem at this place. And at first they began to build a church here. But then plans changed, and instead of the temple, a covered cemetery with a Gothic cloister was erected. It consists of two gates and 43 arched galleries. Inside there is a courtyard with chapels. Numerous relics are kept there - fragments of the Cross on which Jesus was crucified, the remains of the Mother of God's clothing, a thorn from the Crown of Thorns.

In the center of the courtyard are collected many sarcophagi from the ancient Roman era. On the territory of the cemetery there is an archaeological museum where you can see Etruscan urns and ancient sculptures. And the covered chapels are painted with frescoes. The Baptistery of San Giovanni is another additional structure that is part of the Duomo, as is the Leaning Tower of Pisa. And it follows approximately the same architectural canons. The Baptistery is overwhelming in its size. At the bottom it is still Romanesque, and at the top it is already Gothic, with characteristic arches in the form of arrows. But since it is made of white marble, it gives the impression of lightness.

Knights Square

But the Cathedral, the leaning tower and the cemetery are not all the attractions of Pisa. What to see here from secular architecture? Of course, the Square of the Knights is the center of the medieval political life of the city. Why is it called that? The fact is that here was the building of the Order of the Knights of St. Stephen. Now one of the university buildings is located here. This square was the center of the city commune. Many of the buildings here belonged to the magistrate, courts, or “people's captains,” as local rulers were called.

The most luxurious mansion on this square is the Palazzo della Carovana. It is also called the Clock Palace. This building combined in one building several more ancient towers. During the Renaissance, the square was redesigned by the Renaissance architect and art historian Giorgio Vasari. The facade of the Karovana Palace was also modernized. Now in its niches there are busts of Tuscan dukes.

In front of the palace there is a statue of Cosimo de' Medici. And opposite the Clock Mansion is the Palazzo del Orologio, which belonged to Duke Ugolino. Dante tells about his unfortunate fate in The Divine Comedy. He was accused of high treason and, together with his entire family, was doomed to starvation in the tower of his own house.

Santa Maria della Spina

This small Gothic church is located on the other side of the Arno. If you find yourself at the Square of the Knights halfway between the river and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, then Santa Maria della Spina is located just across the bridge. It is named after the thorn from the Crown of Thorns of Christ. The church is small, but unusually decorated, even for Italy. Wherever you look, there are sculptures, Gothic rosettes and other openwork decorative elements. The temple was painted by famous masters of the 14th century, among whom were Lupo di Francesco and Andrea Pisano. Although tourists believe that its interior looks rather poor compared to the external luxury.

Festivals and holidays

The colorful events that take place in this city can easily be classified as the attractions of Pisa. The two most famous festivals take place in the summer, a season when many tourists usually come. This is a holiday in honor of Saint Ranieri - "Lanterna". When the sun sets, all the artificial lights in the city go out, but the residents, and all the participants in the holiday, light thousands of candles. And then the real fun begins - concerts, fireworks, shows...

The best way to watch all this is from the bridge over the Arno - Ponte di Mezzo. And on the last Sunday of June you can get into real medieval Italy. Residents of two neighborhoods of Pisa, which are located on opposite banks of the Arno, organize costumed processions. They approach the bridge from both sides, where competitions are held. This has been going on for hundreds of years.

Many travelers, especially those who come to the city for a couple of hours, first of all rush to the tower. But experienced tourists It is not recommended to do this. It is best to end the tour with an acquaintance with the Pisa Bell Tower. The fact is that after five in the evening entry becomes free. And there will be significantly fewer tourists. Then you will be able to feel the indescribable atmosphere reigning around this building.

Tourists are often surprised that the leaning tower actually looks smaller than it appears on advertising brochures, but the Baptistery of San Giovanni is, on the contrary, very impressive. The most best photos According to tourists, Pisa attractions can be done in May and June. Then the city is fragrant with flowering trees, and photographs against this background turn out so colorful, as if you had been in paradise. But in the fall it can rain endlessly here, and you will have to walk under umbrellas all the time. In the summer you can go to the sea, which is located not far from the city.

 

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