5 interesting things to discover in Pisa
Beyond the Tower: legends, archaeological discoveries and mysteries that render Pisa even more fascinating
Pisa is world-famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, yet the city conceals much more than the distracted eye might notice. Amid tilted monuments, heroic legends and surprising archaeological discoveries, strolling around Pisa means discovering unusual details that tell stories of science, mythology and human ingenuity. In this article, we take you on a discovery of 5 interesting sites to observe Pisa from a different, intriguing and surprising perspective.
1.Other slanting towers besides the Leaning Tower of 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.
How to reach
Via S. Michele degli Scalzi, 167, 56124 Pisa PI, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)2.The Aries constellation in the historic center
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.
How to reach
Piazza del Duomo, 23, 56126 Pisa PI, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)3.The Roman Shipyard
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.
How to reach
Lungarno Ranieri Simonelli, 16, 56126 Pisa PI, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)4.Galileo’s Lamp
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.
How to reach
Piazza del Duomo, 11, 56126 Pisa PI, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)5.The Legend of Kinzica de’ Sismondi
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.
How to reach
Via S. Martino, 21, 56125 Pisa PI, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)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.
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