Pisa

The city of Pisa, one of Italy’s historic Maritime Republics, is known worldwide for its iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. The tower is, in fact, the bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, located in the celebrated Piazza del Duomo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Rising 187 feet (57 meters), or 191 feet (58.36 meters including its foundation level), the tower was built over the course of two centuries, between the 12th and 14th centuries. Its famous inclination measures approximately 3.97 degrees from the vertical axis. A universal symbol of Pisa – and of Italy itself – the Leaning Tower is rightfully considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

At the heart of Piazza del Duomo – also known as Piazza dei Miracoli – stands the Cathedral of Pisa, officially the Primatial Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. A masterpiece of Pisan Romanesque architecture, the cathedral is a powerful testament to the wealth and prestige achieved by the Maritime Republic of Pisa at the height of its power. Beyond the Piazza del Duomo, visitors are encouraged to explore Pisa’s medieval historic center, rich in monuments and crossed by the Arno River.

Pisa is also a vibrant university city and, as such, enjoys excellent road and rail connections. From the Forte dei Marmi-Seravezza-Querceta train station, departures to Pisa are frequent throughout the day. San Rossore station is the most convenient for visiting Piazza dei Miracoli, while Pisa Centrale is ideal for those wishing to explore the historic center and shops.