Pisa

Pisa is a city located in the central part of Italy, within the Tuscany region. It is also situated on the banks of the Arno River. The city traces its origin to antiquity and has several interesting sights to offer its visitors.

Sights & Activities

The Piazza del Duomo is, without doubt, the most famous and most important square in the city. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Four famous buildings can be found in this square. The Duomo is one of the square’s prominent structures, considered to be the city’s cathedral. The structure was consecrated to Santa Maria Assunta or the St. Mary of the Assumption. It is described to be of Romanesque style and construction of the structure began in the 11th century. Its distinctive façade is made of colored marble in its lower part. Inside, visitors can behold its beautiful pulpit that was designed by Pisano. The Duomo also contains the large bronze lamp that became Galileo’s inspiration in formulating the law of the pendulum. The dome is also decorated with frescoes while over the choir entrance hover bronze angels. There is also a large mosaic made by Cimabue and completed in 1302.

Behind the Duomo is the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, which actually functions as the cathedral’s bell tower. The tilt of the tower was caused by poor design and loose substrate. Construction of the structure began as early as 1173 though it took several centuries to reach completion. A number of remedial solutions have been imposed on the tower to prevent further tilting. After the last renovation, it has been reopened to the public who can climb up its steps to get scenic views of the city.

At the other end of the Duomo is the Baptistery, a structure constructed in combined Romanesque and Gothic styles. Work on the baptistery started in 1152 and was only completed in the 14th century. The structure also features a pulpit that was designed by Pisano. For a fee, visitors can also climb up to the dome.
On the northern part of the square is the Camposanto, a walled cemetery that is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Though heavily damaged during World War II, it still bears some impressive frescoes and an antique Greek vase, believed to be made in the 2nd century BC.

Along the banks of the river is a Gothic church of Santa Maria della Spina, which used to house a thorn from the crown used by Jesus Christ. The church presently contains several beautiful sculptures and is worth a visit by anyone interested in religious buildings.

Another impressive structure in Pisa is the Palazzo Reale, which was the official residence of ruling courts in the past. It is now converted into a national museum, though most of its 17th to 19th century interiors have been lovingly preserved. It now showcases impressive collections of art, official portraits, and armors.

Visitors can also take strolls along the old quays of the city, passing some beautiful buildings collectively called the Lungarni. These old buildings, some resembling palaces, are tangible proofs of the city’s illustrious past.

The quay is also the venue for the annual Gioco del Ponte, organized every month of June. Participants get to dress up in medieval costumes and re-enact a number of battles, culminating in pushing a carriage across the ancient Ponte di Mezzo or the Mezzo Bridge. June is also the when the city celebrates the Fiesta di San Ranieri, where the river becomes lined with torches. Other notable buildings in the city are also illuminated during this event.

Weather

The months of July and August are considered to be the hottest in Pisa. With an average of 30°C temperature, most of the locals tend to stay indoors until nighttime, when the air becomes cooler for leisurely strolls and alfresco dining. September signals the start of autumn, when the temperature turns pleasant once again. The same could be said of the months of April to June. These months are also the best times to visit the city. Though winter still has a lot of sunshine, most days are still foggy with frequent heavy rains.