5 interesting things to discover in Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not the only one on a lean: the San Nicola and San Michele degli Scalzi bell towers also have a characteristic tilt. Walking around the city, discovering these lesser-known towers gives an additional perspective on Pisa’s architectural history and the challenge of building on particularly unstable terrain.

Pisa’s 3 main monuments—the Duomo, Baptistery and Tower—are not only religious and civic symbols but with their positioning, reflect the constellation of Aries, the symbol of the city. This astronomical arrangement ties in with the beginning of the Pisan year on March 25, showing how ancient architects integrated knowledge of the sky into their works.

An incredible shipyard with some 30 Roman ships has been discovered beneath the historic center of Pisa, which can be visited through guided tours. This discovery reveals the strategic and commercial importance of the city back in Roman times and offers a unique experience for those who love archeology and history, to be explored hidden beneath modern streets.

In 1592, Galileo Galilei devised the Law of the Pendulum after observing a lamp hanging in Pisa Cathedral. Today, “Galileo’s Lamp” symbolizes the spirit of scientific observation that characterized the scholar and the birth of modern science. Although the present lamp is not the original, the legend remains a tribute to Galileo’s curiosity and ingenuity.

Tradition has it that Kinzica de’ Sismondi saved Pisa from being besieged by Saracen pirates between 1004 and 1005 by raising the alarm while the Pisan fleet was away. The city still celebrates this heroine today. Her statue is encased in a niche on Via San Martino. In 2005, a bronze statue was made for Piazza Guerrazzi. A tale that weaves together courage, legend and civic pride.

Exploring Pisa means being delighted by the hidden details that render the city a unique offering of history, legend and science. Every turn can reveal an unexpected detail, transforming your visit into an unforgettable adventure.