Piazza dei Cavalieri
By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 30 December 2023
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The Piazza dei Cavalieri is an historic square in Pisa city centre. It was once the headquarters of the Knights of St. Stephen, a military order established by Cosimo I de Medici, of whom there is a statue in front of the Piazza's Palazzo della Carovana, now a school.
The edges of the Piazza are fringed by series of historic buildings including the Torre dell'Orologio and the Chiesa di Santo Stefano. |
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Profile
Piazza dei Cavalieri, also known as Knights' Square, is a historically significant square in Pisa, Italy. The square has a long and storied history that dates back to the medieval period when it was known as Piazza dei Mercanti (Merchants' Square). In the 16th century, the square was redesigned by the renowned architect Giorgio Vasari under the patronage of Cosimo I de' Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany.
The square was renamed Piazza dei Cavalieri in honor of the Knights of St. Stephen, a military order founded to defend against pirates and corsairs in the Mediterranean. The order was headquartered in the nearby Palazzo della Carovana. Today, the square remains a focal point of historical and cultural significance in Pisa.
The square was renamed Piazza dei Cavalieri in honor of the Knights of St. Stephen, a military order founded to defend against pirates and corsairs in the Mediterranean. The order was headquartered in the nearby Palazzo della Carovana. Today, the square remains a focal point of historical and cultural significance in Pisa.
Key features
- Overview: Piazza dei Cavalieri is an impressive square that reflects the grandeur of Renaissance architecture and holds numerous architectural and historical treasures.
- Palazzo della Carovana: Dominating one side of the square is the Palazzo della Carovana, also known as the Palazzo dei Cavalieri. Designed by Giorgio Vasari, the palace served as the headquarters of the Knights of St. Stephen. Its facade is adorned with decorative elements and coats of arms, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Renaissance era.
- Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri: On the opposite side of the square stands the Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri, also designed by Giorgio Vasari. The church's facade features intricate marble work and an elegant bell tower. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful artwork and architectural details.
- Statue of Cosimo I de' Medici: In the center of the square, visitors will find a statue of Cosimo I de' Medici, who played a crucial role in the redesign and transformation of the square during the Renaissance.
- History and Symbolism: Piazza dei Cavalieri bears witness to significant historical events and changes in power throughout the centuries, from being a medieval marketplace to a place of political and military importance. The square is a symbol of the Knights of St. Stephen's influence on Pisa's history.
Visitor information
- Location: Piazza dei Cavalieri is located in the city center of Pisa, close to other popular landmarks such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Piazza dei Miracoli.
- Visiting Hours: The square is open to the public at all times, and visitors can explore its architectural wonders and historical significance freely.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours of the Palazzo della Carovana and the Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri may be available, offering visitors deeper insights into the square's history and the remarkable art and architecture it houses.
- Accessibility: The square is easily accessible on foot, as it is a pedestrian-friendly area.
- Nearby Attractions: Piazza dei Cavalieri is conveniently located near other attractions in Pisa, making it an ideal stop during a sightseeing tour of the city.
Piazza dei Cavalieri
City: Pisa
Province: Pisa Region: Tuscany Close by: Borgo Stretto, Piazza Dante, Leaning Tower of Pisa Recommended accommodation: Hotel di Stefano |