Great Pisa! Main attractions. What to see Church of Santa Maria della Spina

Travel notes, day 2

Only very ordinary people who know nothing more about Pisa can go to Pisa just to look at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. These people often spend only a few hours in the city and leave without seeing or learning anything else. When I first came to Pisa, that's exactly what I did. I arrived, looked at the tower and left, immediately forgetting everything like a bad dream. I would never have returned here if not for Anton Borisovich Nosik:

"Another 26 million Chinese and Italians follow the same path every year. It's a beaten track - it's like coming to Moscow, seeing Red Square and returning to the airport (and according to the behavior of the GPS at the Kremlin, both are right in Vnukovo). If you understand that Moscow is not just Red Square, then there should be the same awareness about Pisa. In addition to the tower, there is amazing architecture, museums, antiquity, history - all this is in abundance here. But all this is poorly documented, and in this there are no serious documents about the Republic of Pisa except for the Divine Comedy, but the traces of past times are very well preserved here.

In addition to history, in Pisa there is such an interesting phenomenon as modern Italy. Pisa is a very good city to live in, it is the exact opposite of Venice. It is a very small, quiet and cheap city, but at the same time it is absolutely cosmopolitan and university. In Venice, the bulk of the population is people 80+. And in Pisa, the majority of the inhabitants are young people, students and teachers. Half of the largest buildings in the city are universities, so Pisa is full of youth and fun. At the same time, tourists do not spoil the internal market of Pisa at all, as happens in Rome and Venice. Because the bulk of normal business in Pisa is still focused on locals. This can be seen in the prices of coffee, food, clothes and everything else. The main buyer in Pisa is a local, not a tourist. For tourists, there are only clay Leaning Towers of Pisa on the refrigerator. And if a tourist wants to buy shorts, then no one will rip off a lot of money from him just because he is a tourist. If in Moscow these shorts cost 50 dollars, then in Pisa they are sold for 10 euros.

01. There are wonderful street cafes everywhere in Italy. It is enough to put tables, chairs and umbrellas on the pedestrian street - and already buzz.

02. Another example of a good street cafe. Here, just give free rein, they are trying to build some kind of bulky structures, fence off with fences, make some kind of extensions. This, of course, is no good, because a street cafe should not only bring profit to businessmen, but also be an adornment of the city, make it comfortable and pleasant for walking, enliven. Because people sitting on the street immediately transform the urban environment.

03. There are a lot of beggars in Italy. Beggars often sit with animals and press for pity.

04. Press kiosk

05. Squares and streets turn into markets in the morning. In general, during the day the same area can be a food market, then a clothing market, then tables of cafes and restaurants will appear there. At lunchtime, the square will be completely empty, in the evening young people will walk there, and at night some kind of disco will begin. Every public space is constantly changing throughout the day.

06. Food markets unfold in just a few minutes.

07. Products are mostly local. Usually the trader signs what goods they brought from where, especially if the products are from Italy and in this case Tuscany.

08. Sicilian tomatoes - 128 rubles per kg, zucchini - 193 rubles. per kg. Fennel - 128 rubles, asparagus - 385 rubles, pumpkin - 160 rubles.

09. Peaches - 193 rubles per kg, cherry - 385 p.

10. Mushrooms at a discount: 642 rubles per pound

11. Different varieties of tomatoes from 225 to 450 rubles per kg.

12.

13. Beans - 385 rubles. per kg, zucchini for 258 rubles. We eat zucchini like zucchini, only the lower part, and in Italy they also eat flowers. Salads, pizzas are made from them, and in general these flowers are a rather important component of the national cuisine.

14. The seller at the butcher's shop

15. Wherever you go in Italy, it is, of course, fantastically delicious. And not only pastas and pizzas, which we are already used to here, but anything in general: salads, meat and seafood - everything is prepared from the freshest local products. You can safely go to any institution and die of pleasure.

16. Shop with truffles. Now is not the season, so the truffles are only canned.

17. Apparatus for the sale of cigarettes. You can only buy them if you have a local ID. That is, tobacco is only for Italians) They insert their IDs, the machine checks the age of the buyer and only then issues the goods. But a tourist can always ask a local to buy him cigarettes, and he will certainly help.

18. In honor of the next anniversary of the march of Mussolini's supporters on Rome, the local Pisan authorities decided to recall that Mussolini also persecuted the Jews. In fact, Jews remember exactly the opposite - that under Mussolini they lived here absolutely calmly, but as soon as he was overthrown in 1943, the Holocaust began immediately. But the Pisan authorities have a different version of events: in the 38th year, Mussolini also passed a discriminatory law against the Jews. And in memory of this event, they made a city route through Jewish places.

19. Anton Borisovich Nosik says that Pisa is similar to St. Petersburg.

20. Street art

21. Streets of Pisa

22. Walking around Pisa is a pleasure. Big old town that is well preserved. Yes, there are no sidewalks and some good public spaces, but the very charm of the narrow streets of the old city is what is missing in Russia.

23. We do not have medieval cities in the form in which they have been preserved in Europe. In Russia, cities were not built of stone, and since then, at best, we have left the Kremlin, and, of course, you will not find residential buildings.

24. It is difficult even for two people to pass each other on these streets.

25. But all these houses are residential, everything is real.

26. There is a well-known anecdote about the origin of the Russian word "stibrili" - about how Julius Caesar crossed the Tiber and was left without a horse. And the student who hears this from the professor asks: did something happen to Julius Caesar near Pisa? So, in the photo - a monument to the king and unifier of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II. In all other cities of Italy and in all the paintings you see Victor Emmanuel on horseback. Actually, it is only because they recognize it that it is an equestrian statue. But in Pisa, he was just left without a horse ...

27. Toilet

28.

29. Even in Pisa there are traffic jams. But there are no underground passages.

30. Only scooters can enter some streets.

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32. Entrance to local buses is only through the front door, as in Moscow. It's bad, it shouldn't be.

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34. This is one of the most famous monuments of Tuscan Gothic - the chapel of Santa Maria della Spina. It is built around a relic - a thorn from the crown of thorns of Jesus Christ.

35. But it doesn’t matter, it’s just one of the greatest monuments of Gothic that originated a thousand years ago. It is very cool in terms of sculpture, architecture, engineering and design.

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37.

38.

39. Artifacts of antiquity come across everywhere.

40. Here you can see the remains of the renovation of the Medici. The same thing often happened to us in the 90s and zero, when historical buildings were mutilated for modern needs. In Italy, too, this is, only it was done a long time ago.

41. These marks are like scars on the body of the city. It can be seen that the once beautiful buildings were simplified, chopped off and adapted to the needs of new generations.

42. Now, of course, this is unthinkable, but before people had a simpler attitude to history. You can imagine how many centuries the thinking of some Russian building owners has lagged behind the thinking of Europeans.

43. This is a monument to Ferdinand I, who at the age of 14 received the rank of bishop. He was the fifth son in the family, and it was clear that the fifth son would never make the career of a duke. So he had to serve as a bishop. But in general, he never put on a cassock, because after the death of his brothers, he was nevertheless appointed Grand Duke of Tuscany. And it turned out that he was a normal man: he freed the prisoners, allowed them to practice different religions, allowed them to print books in different languages, opened the port of Livorno. The city was very grateful to him, so this statue was erected in his lifetime in his honor. Ferdinand will rule for another 14 years, and a monument to him has already been erected. In front of him, women with children kneel - this symbolizes that he freed many prisoners accused of fighting against the Medici.

44. Garbage cans

45. Tanks are opened with a special magnetic card that residents have.

46. ​​Underground garbage cans are also opened only with a card. A footpath was made around so that, God forbid, someone would not park.

47. Bakunin lived for some time in Italy - though not in Pisa - and even tried to organize an uprising here. According to Bakunin, many anarchists are still fanatic, including European ones. Apparently, they left graffiti.

48. Scooter parking

49. Here Muslim Indians sell halal meat.

50. There are many Africans in the city who are trying to sell souvenirs.

51. And in general, there are quite a lot of migrants in Pisa, a lot of Arabs. Basically, they are engaged in begging, selling all sorts of junk, standing on all streets, especially where there are tourists.

52. A special postal car, which is allowed to deliver correspondence along pedestrian streets.

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55. There are many cyclists in the city.

56. It’s just possible to do without a car, but there are still cars.

57. This is one of the elements of Piazza dei Cavalieri (Square of the Knights). Church of the Order of Saint Stephen, personally designed by the famous art historian Giorgio Vasari. It is part of the general Cavalieri complex, a very beautiful church. This is how the Medici asserted their cultural presence.

58. Church of San Rocco, it was founded in the 11th century, and inside it was completed already in baroque times, in the 17th century. But basically all these ceilings and layouts are from the 11th century.

59. Enhanced security is on duty near the main attractions.

60. Sculpture "Fallen Angel"

61. And here is the tower. At the top you can see the flag of Pisa.

62. Of course, everyone photographs her endlessly.

63. Pisa Cathedral in honor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

64. Box with relics of various saints. If they were brought to the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, this would be enough for Moscow to stand in an endless queue. And here they do not cause any excitement.

65. Baptistery of Saint John. That is the place where they are baptized. It is even older than the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

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67. They don't know how to lay asphalt here. They laid new asphalt, made markings, but look at the edges. This, of course, is nonsense, you can't do that.

68. Everything is already falling apart.

• Pisa is known to the world thanks to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Tourists who think the tower is the only attraction here will miss out on the rest of the wonders of architecture and art in this beautiful city.
• The half-hour walk from Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles) to the train station winds through a pedestrian street full of attractions, shops and restaurants. The best way to get to know Pisa is to walk along the streets as the center is very small.
• The city comes alive thanks to students who organize parties, shows and cultural events. They fill the central street of the city at night. The University of Pisa has 60,000 students when the total population of the city is about 100,000. You will feel the student spirit as soon as you leave the touristic Campo dei Miracoli.

• Pisa is a quiet city, you don't have to worry about your safety (except in some places at night, like the area around the station). Be that as it may, you should take the obvious precautions (if you are staying in a very cheap hotel, keep valuables with you) and beware of pickpockets in tourist areas.
• You can book a hotel in Pisa at, and you can check if there is a better price anywhere else at. Some travelers prefer to rent private apartments - you can see such offers. If you are looking for a package tour from Russia to Pisa - go

How to get there

By plane

Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport

Tuscany's main airport with several airlines making hundreds of departures per day, both domestic and international. Countless companies offer charter flights from several European and non-European destinations. Flying to Pisa is really easy and convenient: the most famous and cheapest airlines serve flights to Pisa. You can choose the best option. The airport is located close to the city center - in just a few minutes you can reach the center by bus, train or taxi. The airport can also be easily reached on foot, which takes about twenty minutes.

Don't expect the airport to be open 24/7. Many small airports in Europe operate on a fixed schedule.

How to get to the city?

You can buy bus tickets at the information desk in the arrivals hall. The bus (The Red Line or LAM Rosso to Jacobo) runs every 10-15 minutes. The bus goes to Piazza dei Miracoli and to the central station. Since the ticket vending machine "speaks" only Italian, it is better to buy tickets at the information desk. The cost of one ticket is €1.20, but if you buy them from the bus driver, it will cost you €2.00. You can buy a ticket in all shops and bookstores. Now an automated road is being built, along which it will be possible to move between the airport and the station.

Bus station

The bus station is opposite the airport. Once you're in the city, it's easy to locate all the main attractions that are within walking distance. If you are taking the bus from the train station, then you will need to cross the road in front of the station and go right.

If you prefer a more convenient way to travel, a taxi will cost you around €6-8. Otherwise, as an alternative, you can pre-order transport to the airport. This service is especially convenient for large groups.

"Easy Private Taxi" will provide transportation to the city for €36 Mercedes class E, €43 minivan.

123 Transfers offers transport to the city for €37.50 sedan (3 people), €50 minivan (8 people).

By car with a companion

This is one of the most convenient ways to get to Pisa. You can spread the costs and make travel cheaper. You can find a car that will take you to Pisa on the website: Passaggio.it

By train

In Pisa, trains run daily to Florence and to Lucca (usually every hour), you can also get there by bus, there is an international airport.

Pisa Centrale is the main station in Pisa. Trains from Rome to Genova stop at Pisa Centrale. If you plan to move only within Pisa, then this is also convenient. Pisa Centrale has left-luggage offices available from 6 am to 9 pm. The storage of each bag costs three euros. If you are in the city just to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, then you can go down to the Pisa S. Rossore station, which is closer to the tower. Be sure to check the train schedule as not all trains may stop. Be that as it may, there are regional trains to Florence that run every hour at the forty-sixth minute (as of July 9, 2012).

Clue:

Pisa - the time is now

Hour difference:

Moscow 1

Kazan 1

Samara 2

Yekaterinburg 3

Novosibirsk 5

Vladivostok 8

When is the season. When is the best time to go

Pisa - monthly weather

Clue:

Pisa - monthly weather

Main attractions. What to see

Pisa is divided into four historical squares. There is something to see, in addition to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Several different routes are available.

Piazza dei Miracoli or Field of Miracles located in the north of the center of Pisa. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing the various sights of the city:

Other historic buildings include: the Church of San Rocco, the Rectory, the Palazzo Carovana and the Palazzo dei Dodici.

Museo di San Matteo, Piazza San Matteo, 1, lungarno Mediceo, +39 50 541865. This is a fantastic history and art museum whose buildings are full of paintings. It is quite small, but one of the largest for Tuscan Renaissance painting, located in the premises of the monastery of San Matteo. This treasure is overlooked by many tourists.

Lungarno Mediceo and Lungarno Pacinotti on the north side of the Arno River, Lungarno Galilei and Lungarno Gambacorti on the south side: these coastal streets give Pisa a completely unique character, especially in the evening when the lanterns are reflected in the waters of the Arno. Along the Lungarni are interesting places:

Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza XX Settembre, two opposite town squares, at the ends of the Ponte di Mezzo (middle bridge). Considered the center of the city. From Piazza Garibaldi begins Borgo Stretto - an old street with many shops, which together with Corso Italia create a pedestrian zone (interrupted only by a bridge), which is the city center. In Piazza XX Settembre you can find the Logge dei Banchi, a textile market building from the 1600s and the town hall in the Palazzo del Comune.

Santo Sepolcro, on Lungarno Galilei, is an octagonal Romanesque church with a conical spire built by Diotisalvi.

Ussero Café, founded in 1775, lungarno Pacinotti 27. Monument to Italian culture in the 1400th Palazzo Agostini, on Lungarno. In 1839, the first meeting of the Congress of Italian Scientists took place here.

Santa Maria della Spina. A very small gothic church on Lungarno Gambacorti, built in 1230 to house a spike from the crown of Jesus. This church is considered one of the most prominent representatives of Gothic art. In view of its small size, the church was moved a little higher from the Arno River in 1800 to protect it from flooding.

Giardino Scotto, on Lungarno Fibonacci at the end of Lungarno Galilei. Former fortress, converted into a public park, open in summer for open-air cinema screenings, concerts and other events.

La Cittadella (The Citadel). Fortress at the end of the Lungarno Simonelli, built to guard the entrance to the river Arno, as well as a former shipyard from the Middle Ages.

University Botanical Garden, via Luca Ghini 5. The first botanical garden in Europe, commissioned by Cosimo de' Medici in 1544. The garden is open weekday mornings, admission is free.

Beautiful Romanesque churches - San Paolo a Ripa d "Arno, San Michele in Borgo, San Paolo with a gallery of sculptures inside.

Tuttomondo, mural by Keith Haring. Keith Haring visited Pisa and fell in love with the city, so he decided to paint a magnificent mural as a gift. Although it is incredibly large, it is easy to miss, so be careful. It is located between Giuseppe Mazzini and Massimo D "Azeglio, not far from Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.

Food. What to try

Make it a rule not to eat near the Leaning Tower of Pisa as the prices are high and the quality is low. Instead, go to the central part (5-10 minutes walk from Piazza dei Miracoli). You will find very good and cheap restaurants there. For example, there are nice cafeterias with respectable prices in the small but lively vegetable market, Piazza delle Vettovaglie. Also Via San Martino, not far from the south bank of the river, there are a couple of places with good food and low prices.

It is known that not far from the Leaning Tower of Pisa, in via Roma, there is a good Indian restaurant with a great atmosphere and very good, though not always cheap, dishes. Piazza dei Miracoli has a good restaurant-pizzeria Kinzica. In any case, don't miss the Salza, at Borgo Stretto, with delicious chocolates, sweets and pastries of all kinds. Don't sit inside, if only because you end up paying €10 for two coffees.

Finally, there is a good pizzeria next to the Hostel, on the road leading to Leclerc.

Safety. What to watch out for

Don't buy sunglasses, umbrellas, and other knick-knacks from illegal vendors. Stay away from fake luxury items. Upon arrival in Pisa, tourists are surrounded by merchants. Some may be pushy or openly aggressive. Even a simple “No thanks” can attract unwanted attention. Better to just ignore them. Don't be afraid to be rude.

While low prices are tempting, especially when you're on a tight budget, please be aware that lately the Italian police have been fining tourists for buying from illegal merchants. These fines can be very hefty (up to €1,000). In front of the Tower there are several merchants who are allowed to sell various items. Be responsible and buy from them. Legal traders are located at the stalls along the main road.

Things to do

On June 16, the Luminaria festival takes place in Pisa, in honor of the patron saint (San Ranieri). At sunset, all the lights along the Arno die out and over 10,000 candles are lit. Various actions take place in the streets, and the night ends with a big fireworks display.

Another summer attraction is the Gioco del Ponte (Bridge Game). Held every year on the last Sunday of June, when the two parties (Tramontana and Mezzogiorno, geographically separated by the Arno River) take part in a historic procession in the company of 709 extras, and then compete with each other in physical strength. Teams of twenty try to conquer the Ponte di Mezzo (the main bridge in Pisa) by pushing a cart off the bridge to force the opposing team off the bridge.

Mineral springs

Casciana Terme: The thermal water in Casciana Terme has been used since ancient times. In recent years, its use has been expanded to modern methods of rehabilitation and treatment of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, treatment of digestive functions.

San Giuliano Terme: water with a positive effect and calcium-magnesium water with sulphates, rich in vital healing elements, gushing at the foot of the San Giuliano mountain from the source, where various springs originate, collected in two groups and called "Oriental Baths" (temperature 40°C) and "Western baths" (temperature 38°C).

Education

Pisa School of Advanced Studies of St. Anna or Scuola Superiore Sant "Anna. A public university of applied sciences, formed from the Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa (School of Higher Education in Italy, i.e. Scuola Superiore Universitaria).

Location: Scuola Superiore Sant "Anna, P.zza Martiri della Libertà, 33 - 56127 - Pisa ()

Scuola Normale or Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa was founded in 1810 by decree of Napoleon, as a branch of the Parisian École Normale Supérieure. Recognized as a "national university" in 1862, a year after the reunification of Italy, and named during this period the "Normal School of the Italian Kingdom". (School of Higher Education in Italy i.e. Scuola Superiore Universitaria).

Location: Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa - Piazza dei Cavalieri, 7 - 56126 Pisa ()

The University of Pisa or Università di Pisa is one of the oldest universities in Italy. It was officially founded on September 3, 1343 by decree of Pope Clement VI, although lectures on law have been held in Pisa since the eleventh century. The University has the oldest botanical garden in Europe, i.e. Orto botanico di Pisa, founded in 1544.

Location: Università di Pisa - Lungarno Pacinotti, 43 - 56126 Pisa ().

Generally speaking, the beach resorts of Tuscany, where Pisa is actually located, are discussed in detail in the article "From Florence to the Sea". If you are interested in where you can go from Pisa to swim and sunbathe, then all the options discussed in this article are quite suitable. Moreover, getting from Pisa to the Tuscan beaches is even more convenient than from Florence, since Pisa is much closer to the sea. Not far from here and to the beaches of Eastern Liguria (read more about them in this review). Nevertheless, here we will talk about several resorts located near Pisa, which often escape the sight of tourists who independently organize a beach holiday on the Tuscan coast. First of all, we are talking about places like Marina di Pisa(Marina di Pisa), Tirrenia(Tirrenia) And Calambrone(Calambrone).

Of these, in relation to Pisa, the closest seaside town of Marina di Pisa is just 20 minutes away by bus.

So, let's take a closer look at these places.

First of all, it is worth noting that neither Marina di Pisa, nor Tirrenia, nor Calambrone, in terms of tourist popularity, can be compared not only with the popular resorts of Versilia, but also with the relatively calm resorts located south of Livorno (Marina di Cecina, San Vincenzo, etc.). However, it cannot be said that there is no resort life in this area. Not at all. Here you can find excellent beaches (both paid and free), and the beautiful sea, and clean air, and entertainment (including bars, discos, a small amusement park), and inexpensive fish restaurants, not to mention pizzerias, gelateria, etc. .P. However, Marina di Pisa, Tirrenia and Calambrone are more like places for a quiet and inexpensive family vacation: there are no luxury hotels or many kilometers of shopping streets here (although there is where to play golf). Perhaps the busiest place is Marina di Pisa, which gives the impression of a city, albeit not a big one (in the evenings, the center of public life is the embankment). Tirrenia is much quieter and calmer, and Calambrone in this sense is completely wilderness.

Speaking of sea and beaches, then first of all it is worth focusing on Tirrenia. The beaches here are sandy, spacious and quite clean. There are not many free public plots, but still there is a choice (you can’t compare with any Viareggio). In addition, in hotels in Tirrenia, the cost of using the beach infrastructure (chaise lounges, umbrellas, etc.) is often included in the price of accommodation (see, for example, Miramare Resort and Orchidea Marina), which for the most part hotels in the same Viareggio despite higher prices. In short, Tirrenia is a great budget alternative to the beach resorts of Versilia, especially for families with small children. Near the coast, the sea here is shallow, but still quite clean even at the height of the swimming season.

The beaches in Calambrone are no worse than in Tirrenia, but they are closer to the port of Livorno, which can hardly be considered a plus. Marina di Pisa is also not without flaws. The local beaches are mostly pebbly and rocky, and the stones are quite large and sharp, so it is better to swim in special shoes. Sandy beaches can also be found, but they are mostly paid and at the same time noticeably inferior to the beaches of Tirrenia and Calambrone. Someday all this economy will be brought to mind, and then Marina di Pisa will turn into a real beach resort.

Finally, let's say a few words about another interesting place, located a little to the north, not far from the town of Torre del Lago Puccini. This - Marina di Vecchiano(Marina di Vecchiano), already actually Versilia, but still quite, completely different. What is remarkable about this place? The fact that this is the territory of the Migliarino, San Rossore and Massaciuccoli Natural Park (Parco Naturale Migliarino - S. Rossore - Massaciuccoli). The local beach is often called "wild", which, in general, is true, although there are paid areas equipped with everything you need. The most remarkable thing is that, unlike Versilia, there are no crowds on the beach and no massive development along the coast, and even the sea seems to be a little deeper than in Viareggio, which is very close (in fact, “wild” beaches stretch from here and almost to Viareggio).

It is more convenient to come here by car (there is usually enough parking space for everyone), but if you want to take a walk, then by and large you can walk from the railway station of the same Tore del Lago Puccini. Again, if desired, in this town or in its immediate vicinity, you can stay for a few days. The closest hotel to the sea is Hotel Turandot. By the way, nearby, on the shores of Lake Massaciuccoli, is the villa of Giacomo Puccini, which is worth a visit if only to diversify a lazy beach holiday, even if you are not a big fan of classical music.

In conclusion, we note once again that through Pisa you can get not only to the above, but also to many other resorts, including, again, not only the hackneyed Vesrilia, but also the island of Elba, and San Vincenzo, and many other interesting places. Read more about them.

In Pisa, a provincial Tuscan town, known throughout the world for its Square of Miracles and its main decoration - the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it is best to come in late spring and early summer. This time is ideal for leisurely walks along the embankments, evening gatherings in outdoor cafes and sightseeing, because there is something to see here besides the main symbol of the city. Consider the seasons, when else is it worth going to Pisa and why.

Winter

Winter in Pisa is the time of grandiose sales, lasting from the beginning of January to the end of February. By the end of winter, discounts reach a dizzying 70 percent, but the assortment and sizes at this time leave much to be desired. The weather at this time is not happy: fogs are regular, cold icy winds, it rains, although not as often as in autumn. The days are often sunny, the thermometer rarely drops below 8 degrees, but cold gusts of wind, high humidity and fog do not in any way favor long walks.

Spring

Spring is probably the most pleasant time to visit Pisa. The picturesque Tuscan hills and valleys are covered with young greenery, the bright sun, blue sky and green grass in the Square of Miracles emphasize the whiteness of the marble and the elegance of the buildings. There are not so many people here compared to summer, prices are still not very high. However, in March-April it is still rainy and quite cool at night.

Helpful answer?

Helpful answer?

Helpful answer?

Helpful answer?

Pisa weather monthly:

Month	Temperature		Cloudiness	Rainy days / Precipitation	Number of solar hours per day
	Happy	At night
January	10.2°C	6.0°C	41.3%	5 days (67.1 mm.)	9 a.m. 21m.
February	10.9°C	6.1°C	42.7%	6 days (79.7 mm.)	10 a.m. 30m.
March	14.3°C	8.2°C	34.3%	5 days (86.8 mm.)	11h. 56m.
April	18.4°C	11.1°C	27.4%	4 days (50.2 mm.)	13h. 27m.
May	21.1°C	12.9°C	25.1%	4 days (57.7 mm.)	14h. 44m.
June	26.5°C	17.0°C	15.1%	3 days (36.9 mm.)	15h. 23m.
July	29.6°C	20.0°C	12.1%	3 days (33.8 mm.)	15h. 4m.
August	30.5°C	20.5°C	10.2%	1 day (18.1 mm.)	13h. 57m.
September	25.9°C	17.5°C	18.4%	4 days (52.9 mm.)	12h. 30m.
October	21.2°C	14.2°C	29.8%	5 days (80.7 mm.)	11h. 0m.
November	15.4°C	10.4°C	38.4%	7 days (97.8 mm.)	9 a.m. 41m.
December	11.9°C	7.6°C	37.9%	4 days (69.7 mm.)	8h. 59m.

* This table shows average weather data collected over more than three years

REVIEWS OF TOURISTS:

Pisa in 4 hours

Our goal during the next Italian trip was a seaside holiday in the small town of Follonica in Tuscany. We traveled by train, accompanied by our Italian friends. They strongly recommended that we make a four-hour stop in Pisa, and then follow our route on the next train. We were worried that we had a lot of bags with us, and since the city is popular with tourists, there might not be places in the luggage room. But fortunately, for 10 euros, we fit all of them in one spacious luggage compartment right at the railway station in Pisa. We didn’t have much time at our disposal, but we didn’t take a taxi, and in about 25 minutes we walked from the station to the square where the famous tower is located. Hundreds of tourists immediately catch the eye, trying to take a photo with the tower in the palm of their hand or keeping it from falling with both hands. Near the leaning tower is the Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery. The entire ensemble is made in one white color, around a neatly trimmed green lawn. We had very little time, and to get inside the tower, we had to stand in line for an hour and a half. But we got the general impressions and after having a bite in a street cafe, admiring these amazing architectural structures, we already ran to the railway station.

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Prices for holidays in Pisa. August 2018.

tour cost

A bus ticket from Lviv to Florence costs from 80 to 100 euros. You don't need a visa if you have a biometric passport. You can get from Florence to Pisa by train - the ticket is about 10 euros. A hotel room costs about 30-40 euros. Hostel - from 15.

Food and products

Panino or bread sandwich with different fillings from 4. For example, panino with tuna, tomatoes and lettuce - 6-7. A glass of wine - from 6 euros. Pasta with chicken and vegetables somewhere in the center will cost 8, salads - 7-15. Farther from the center is cheaper. A slice of spinach pie - 2. Products in the supermarket at affordable prices: half a baked chicken - 2-2.6 euros. Chocolate Lind - 1. Paste - from 0.5. Lots of delicious cheeses. Mozzarella - 0.57. A stick of parmegiano regano - 3. A small package of grana padano - about 4-7. Fruits are some expensive. The cost of a raspberry vessel is 200 grams - 3-4.

Souvenirs and other goods

In August, sales, I bought a summer dress for 5 euros, a rag bag for 2, a T-shirt for 2 and from a new collection for 10, magnets from 1 euro, postcards from 0.5.

What to take with you on vacation?

I recommend bringing running shoes or other sports shoes. After all, it is by walking a lot on foot that you can see more. On the way to the main square, you can admire the embankment, architecture and stunning views of the Arno River from there. Sunglasses, beach gear, a foot patch (here it costs more and is better to have on hand) and sun cream for the face will also come in handy.

Where is the best place to stay?

Housing near the Leaning Tower of Pisa is quite expensive. It is better to stay in a hotel or hostel near the railway station. From there it will be about 20-30 minutes walk to the center, at the same time you can see the city properly. Prices: about 40-50 euros for a simple room, in a hostel - even cheaper.

What to do at the resort?

Of course, when it comes to Pisa, the famous Leaning Tower immediately comes to mind. Although they say that there is nothing else there, but this is not so. Finding out where Piazza dei Miracoli is located is easy - everyone goes there. Therefore, you can join the flow of tourists and go quietly. Climbing the tower costs 18 euros. Next to it is the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.

On the Square of Miracles you will see the largest baptistery in the world, it is called San Giovanni. The cost of a ticket to these two buildings is 5 euros. Nearby is a monumental cemetery, there are chapels and ancient frescoes. You can also take a walk to the square of the knights, where the University of Pisa and various palaces are located, go to the botanical garden and the national museum of San Matteo.

From Pisa, the sea can be reached by bus or by car. Many tourists and locals go to popular destinations such as Marina di Pisa (pebble beaches) and Tirrenia (beautiful sandy beaches). Nearby is the island of Elba and the resort town of Viareggio.

There are many different cafes in the city where you can have a delicious lunch. In institutions that are located near the main Square of Miracles, the prices are quite expensive. Good trattoria San Omobono, with excellent food. Lunch will be about 20 euros.

Pros of staying in Pisa

The undoubted advantage of Pisa is that it is located near the sea and other beautiful places in Tuscany. By train and bus you can easily get to any city.

Should you visit Pisa?

If your task is to swim, sunbathe and see the beautiful, magical Tuscany, of course, you should come to Pisa. The town is very conveniently located, and in itself it is cozy and calm. You can travel around the area and enjoy a beach holiday.

Pisa is a small town located near the Ligurian Sea. In the past, a port, and now just a very beautiful tourist center, known throughout the world for its "Leaning Tower". But not only this attraction is famous for Pisa. Many 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)

Laid down 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, famous people and clergymen are buried at Campo Santo.

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

Piazza Cavalieri

Pisa's oldest square. It is located near the Square of Miracles and is surrounded by palaces and churches. A cozy place where you can relax from the hustle and bustle and feel the medieval atmosphere. In the old days, the city forum, now a cultural center and a venue for holidays.

The Palace of the Order of Knights (Palazzo della Carovana) is located on the square, the facade 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-tier structure made of marble is decorated with stone carvings, graceful arches, faces of saints. The baptistery was built over two centuries, which led to a mixture of Gothic and Romanesque styles of architecture. The interior space 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 the themes of the Old Testament and scenes from the life of Christ.

Botanical Garden of Pisa

The Botanical Garden of 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, Mediterranean plant species. Not a small place is occupied by an arboretum with stunning cedars and magnolias. There is a collection of African cacti, as well as orchids, camellias and other flowers. An interesting selection of plants "Flora of the Pharaohs" - they were used in ancient Egypt as food, medicine and cosmetics.

Square of Miracles

Piazza de Miracoli is the main square of the city. She is the most unique 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 whole 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 importance, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1987.

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

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

Cathedral (Duomo)

Located in the heart of Miracles Square (Cathedral Square). Construction began in 1063 under the direction 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 the form of a Roman cross. The temple was built in a mixture of different styles - Romanesque, Moorish, Byzantine, which gives it a unique look.
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 beginning of the 14th century depicting Christ has survived to this day.

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

The interior of the cathedral is characterized by multicolored 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.
• Entry fee: € 2.00.
• From November 1 to March 1 - free of charge.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The world-famous symbol of both the city of Pisa and all of Italy. It is the current 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 sloping appearance due to an error in the calculations of this unknown designer. On sandy soils, it shrunk to one side already at the stage of building the first floor. Further attempts to complete the tower were unsuccessful. Only in the 19th century was the upper tier completed with almost no slope.

After the construction was completed, a lot of money and time was spent on strengthening the bell tower. Thanks to excavation work carried out in 1996 and the installation of cables inside the tower structure, it was possible to suspend 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 in 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).
• Entry fee: €18.

University of Pisa

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

Of the subjects at that time, theology, civil and canon law, and medicine were taught. The university was then called the Studium. The university was repeatedly closed and reopened again. In 1544, the Botanical Garden was founded under him, which is still functioning.

In the 15th century, a new building for the university was built on the territory of the ancient square, to the gates of which a cherub was adorned. Since then, it has become a symbol of the University of Pisa.
Galileo Galilei studied and then taught at the university, 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 exposition of something like the St. Petersburg Kunstkamera.

• Address: Lungarno Pacinotti, 43 - 56126 Pisa,

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

This is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture. Erected 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 that, they began to call her "Spin" (thorn).

The church was dismantled in the second half of the 19th century 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 facing of the temple used 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 is a chapel with the figure of the Virgin Mary with the Child surrounded by angels. The right side is decorated with a large number of columns, statues, amazing carvings, and 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 retains traces of the original painting of the mid-14th century. In the niches are statues of the holy apostles.

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

Church of San Ferdiano

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 three-nave, 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 and 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 of the end of the 17th century, has been 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.

The 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 Matteo

The museum is located on the right-bank part 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 XIII century, reconstruction was carried out with an increase in the area of ​​​​its buildings.

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

The exhibits of the museum belong to the XII-XVII centuries, while the greatest artistic interest is represented by works of art dating back to the XIII-XV centuries. Among them is a collection of painted crosses, a Bible of 1168 with illustrations, various sculptures by prominent masters, and unique paintings by artists of the Tuscan school.

The complex of buildings of the National Museum 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 9.00 to 13.30.
• The cost of visiting: full - 6.50 euros, preferential - 1.5 euros.

Basilica of San Piero Grado

It is one of the oldest Christian churches in Italy. It is located in the quarter of the same name near the city. There is a legend that in 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 century. On the plan it has a cruciform shape with a nave in the middle and borders on the sides. There are three apses on the south side.

The external appearance of the basilica, sustained in the Romanesque style, is strict and majestic in its loneliness 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 touch.

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

• Address: Via Vecchia Marina 5, San Piero a Grado - Pisa, Italia.
• Opening hours: daily from 8.00 to 19.00
• Admission fee: Free entry.

Church of San Sisto

It is located in the historical center of the city, not far from the Square of Miracles. The first mention of it appeared in the XI century. At that time, important notarial acts were performed in the temple, documents on them were kept.

The church is dedicated to Saint Sixtus, who was the patron saint of the city. After the horrendous defeat in the naval battle of Mylor on the day of St. Sixtus, the townspeople no longer honored the saint.

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

The interior 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 steering wheel, and a tombstone of an Arab emir are kept here.

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

Palazzo della Carovana

It is an undoubted decoration of the Knights' Square (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. In the future, his knights began to escort caravans with goods, and future knights were trained in this palace. And so the name stuck with him.

Built in 1662 - 1664. The decoration of the facade gives this palazzo an originality. 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 there are busts of the Tuscan dukes, who were also masters of the order.

Particularly interesting in the interior of the palace is a stained-glass window depicting a knight's cross on the roof above the upper flight of the main staircase. Currently, the building houses the University of the Higher Normal School.

• Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri.

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

The garden is located on the south bank 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 the smelting of bells, some plants specially planted in this area were used.

Initially, the garden was founded in the middle of the XIV century during the first Florentine conquest. Subsequently, the citadel was destroyed during the uprising, the park was badly damaged. With the re-emergence of Florentine power, the pacification of resistance, it lost its defensive purpose and was dismantled.

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

At present, it hosts various entertainment events.

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

Museum of Ancient Ships (Museo delle navi antiche)

During repairs 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 this place in ancient times there was a port.

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

The museum was given the building of the ancient Arsenal, built by the Duke of Tuscany Casimo I to store and repair his fleet.

Now the museum has two halls, which exhibit the best preserved ships. The rest of the finds are still under restoration. The premises of the museum are being completed to replenish the exposition.

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

Church of San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno (Chiesa San Paolo a Ripa d "Arno)

St. Paul's Church bears a strong 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 X century. It has a characteristic appearance for the Romano-Pisan style, which has the features of both Romanesque buildings and Arabic features. From 1565 to 1798 the church was administered by the Order of Saint Stephen. After its abolition, it became a parish church.

The facade is decorated with three portals with solid arches above them and stone carvings. In the upper three tiers there are galleries with rows of columns and arches. In plan it looks like a cross. The central nave is separated from the side limits 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 depicting the Madonna and Child, and a medieval Crucifix 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

Guelph Citadel (Torre Guelfa)

This is one of the very interesting sights of Pisa. Guelphs in the Middle Ages were called 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 middle of the XIII century. It is located in the western part of the embankment of the Arno River and was an integral part of the 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 next to the bridge. During the reign of the Medici, an arsenal was built nearby, which now houses a museum. Over time, the sea left, the river became shallow and sea vessels could no longer approach the city.

During the Second World War, during the bombing, it was badly damaged. 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 the time of its construction in the first quarter of the XII century. It was built originally by order of the Hospitallers. Its name means "Church of the Holy Sepulcher" and it was intended to store relics brought from the Holy Land by Bishop Dagobert after participating in the first crusade, when in 1099 the crusader knights captured Jerusalem. With its multifaceted shape, it 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 knights-customers affected.

After the liquidation of the Order of the Hospitallers, the Knights of Malta owned the church of Santo Sepolcro. 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 appearance of the Middle Ages. It houses the tomb of Maria Mancini, a 15th-century fresco depicting the Madonna and Child.

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

Museum of the Ospedale Nuovo di Santo Spirito

Among the bright, bright sights of Piazza del Duomo, this building causes some bewilderment among visitors. A long, gloomy, squat building, without any special decorations, in sharp contrast with the Gothic masterpieces located nearby.

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

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

Currently, there is a museum of sinopia - a rough drawing of a fresco, which seems to be from its inside. After the bombing in 1943, many frescoes were damaged in Campo Santo. They were removed for restoration, and under them were these synopia, 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" (Museo dell "Opera 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 equip the seminary, then the Academy of Fine Arts was located, and even later the convent settled.

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

Also among the exhibits, the sculpture "Madonna and Child" by Giovanni 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
• Admission fee: 10 euros for viewing all the monuments.

Palazzo del Orologio (Palazzo del Orologio; Palazzo della Gherardesca)

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

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

By the beginning of the 17th century, the building acquired a modern look. The architect Giorgio Vasari connected the Ugolino tower with the neighboring palace, standing at an angle to it, with a graceful arch. The result is an original palace in the form of a book.

Like all buildings on this square, the Order of St. Stephen owned the palace. It housed a hospital for the old knights. At the end of the 17th century, a clock and a small bell tower 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 Gherardesca. At present, the Higher Normal School has placed its library in it.

• Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri.

Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri

Another ancient attraction is the Piazza dei Cavalieri. Bala was built at the end of the 16th century. The Duke of Tuscany, Casimo I Medici, being the 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 building. The facade is decorated with a red and white Maltese cross. Above the portal is the coat of arms of the Medici, surrounded by balls and with the same Maltese cross. Externally, the church is designed in the Renaissance style.

The interior of the church is very interesting and original. The vaults are decorated with frescoes, images of the Maltese cross in relief medallions, sayings from the Holy Scriptures. 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 multicolored marble with gilded sculptures.

• Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri.
• Opening hours: daily.
• Admission fee: free.

Medici Palace (Palazzo dei Medici)

It is located a few hundred meters southeast of Duomo Square. 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. In this palace in 1494, the King of France, Charles VIII, was a guest.

Since the end of the 19th 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 extremities. The outer walls are clad in rough, unworked stone, giving it a stern, warlike appearance. One of the corners of the building is decorated with the Medici family coat of arms.

The inner courtyard is surrounded by a gallery decorated with graceful columns. The palace itself has three floors. Living rooms were located on the upper floor, magnificently decorated halls for holidays and celebrations were located on the lower floors. 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

Blue Palace Art Museum (Palazzo Blu)

Located in the historic center of the city on the embankment of the Arno River. The palace is not characterized by architectural delights. The unusual coloring in a dark blue tone, which was discovered during the restoration of the building, gives it a special noteworthiness and originality.

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

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

• Address: Lungarno Gambacorti 9.
• Opening hours: 10.00-15.00.
• Admission fee: free.

Piazza delle Vettovaglie

The square was formed 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 lively 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 galleries with arcades and columns topped with capitals. Grayish sandstone was used in the construction of the buildings.

It was adapted to the market, which sold a large number of products. To maintain cleanliness and hygiene, a fountain was built, fed from an aqueduct.
Shops were located on the first floors, while the upper floors were occupied by residential premises for rent.

And in modern conditions, the square remains the shopping center of the city, there are many shops, boutiques, cafes and restaurants on it.

• 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 stands a small cozy town of San Giuliano Terme.

It was built for one of the wealthy 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 rises 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 the vestibule are painted with amazing frescoes of the 18th century depicting the signs of the zodiac, castles, and the villa itself. A large park spread over 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 mention of it is found in the documents of the XI century. It is made in the Romano-Pisan style. For the construction, stone from different quarries was used, so the walls have a non-uniform color.

The facade was built in the 12th century. It is decorated with an entrance portal framed by pilasters, arched windows, and mosaics. At the top above the portal is a round rose window, typical of the 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 is an amazing bell tower, not inferior in beauty to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. And she also has a slight bias. The octagonal tower is decorated with pilasters connected by arched arches. At the top is a hexagonal belfry with arched windows. A bell hangs from 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 creations of Baroque masters; statues of the XIV-XV 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
• Admission fee: free

Palace of Pretorio (Palazzo Pretorio)

Near the Ponte di Mezzo bridge on the Galileo embankment 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.

It was built, as was often the case in those days, by merging two towers. In order to give greater harmony to the association, it was decided in 1785 to reconstruct the building. The facade was completely rebuilt, decorated with marble tiles and friezes, and a tower clock was installed.

Palazzo Pretorio has been destroyed many times in its history. In 1846, as a result of an earthquake and during the bombings in World War II. In the fifties, during the restoration, it was strengthened with reinforced concrete structures, the portico was expanded along the facade, 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)

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 façade was decorated with a two-tone marble group. The façade is decorated with three semicircular arches supported by white marble pilasters. The portal is decorated with a row of pilasters holding tapering arches.

The upper tier, separated from the lower one 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 pretentious 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 background of a lancet arched window and organ pipes. Our side ones are decorated with iconostasis.

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 by him "Tuttomondo". The image size is 1000×1800 centimeters.

• Address: Piazza Sant'Antonio, Pisa, Italia.
• Opening hours: daily.
• Admission fee: 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, 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 Lanfranc Palace - one of the oldest and most beautiful palazzos in the city. It is famous for the large reliefs depicting coats of arms that adorn its walls.

In the same quarter there is one of the favorite places of rest of the townspeople, the magnificent Scotto Garden or as it is also called Cittadella Nuova.

Street 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 beauties and spirit of the medieval city.

San Rossore Massachucoli Natural Park

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

The ecosystem of this park is rich in diversity. It combines coniferous forests, free-flowing dunes, and luxurious beaches. The best beaches are Marina de Vecchiano and Tirrenia. Significant wetlands are the marshes of San Rossore and Lake Massaciuccoli.

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

There are three villages on the territory of the Natural Park, the inhabitants of which are engaged in traditional economic activities: animal husbandry, sheep breeding, collecting pine nuts, and agricultural activities. The races held every year in the village of San Rossore are also famous.

Palazzo dei Lanfranchi

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

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

The façade was designed according to the wishes of the Lanfranchi family and retained some Renaissance elements. In the masonry of the building, modern white stone contrasts sharply with the old 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 with pilasters and stacked columns.

Now the palace houses the City Museum of Graphics, 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
• Entry fee: 3 euros.

Palazzo Cevoli

One of the luxurious palaces that adorn the street of San Martino is the palace of the Palazzo Cevoli. Since the 18th century, it has belonged to a wealthy Pisan family, who came from the village of the same name in the Tuscan hills.

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

During the repair work, fragments of frescoes of the XIV century with images of the heads of saints were discovered.

For some time, the Danish king Federico IV lived in the Palazzo Cevoli, who was in Florence not only on a political, but also a romantic visit. 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!