Piazza dei Miracoli
By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 21 January 2024
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The Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, although they call it by its alternative name: Piazza del Duomo. Whilst you may not have heard of the Piazza, it's highly unlikely that its main monument will have escaped your attention.
Occupying the eastern end of the Piazza and the cover page of thousands of guide books is the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. |
This in itself makes the square the main visitor attraction in the Tuscan city of Pisa, but there's so much more to see around just this piazza alone. The centrepiece is the beautiful Pisa Cathedral which stands between the Leaning Tower and the glorious Pisa Baptistery at the western edge.
As if those three signature buildings weren't enough to whet the appetite, the northern edge of the square is occupied by the Camposanto Monumentale, a lavish cemetery that was built using "holy ground" from Jerusalem. The southern edge of the Piazza is home to the Museo delle Sinopie while the north and western fringes are protected by the crenellated city walls.
As if those three signature buildings weren't enough to whet the appetite, the northern edge of the square is occupied by the Camposanto Monumentale, a lavish cemetery that was built using "holy ground" from Jerusalem. The southern edge of the Piazza is home to the Museo delle Sinopie while the north and western fringes are protected by the crenellated city walls.
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Piazza dei Miracoli, also known as the Square of Miracles, is a magnificent architectural complex located in Pisa, Italy. This historic square is renowned for its exquisite collection of medieval buildings, including the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, making it one of Italy's most iconic and visited landmarks.
History
The history of Piazza dei Miracoli dates back to the 11th century when Pisa was a flourishing maritime republic. The square was originally conceived as a religious center to showcase the city's wealth and power. Construction of the buildings began in the late 11th century and continued over the following centuries.
Key features
- Leaning Tower of Pisa: Undoubtedly the most famous attraction in the square, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a freestanding bell tower that began tilting during its construction due to an inadequate foundation. Today, the tower leans at a noticeable angle, attracting millions of visitors who come to marvel at its architectural wonder.
- Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: The magnificent cathedral, also known as the Duomo, dominates the square with its impressive Romanesque architecture. The facade is adorned with intricate sculptures, and the interior houses stunning artwork, including frescoes, mosaics, and the famous pulpit by Giovanni Pisano.
- Baptistery of St. John: Adjacent to the cathedral, the Baptistery is a circular building with a stunning dome. It is renowned for its acoustics, and visitors are often treated to beautiful choral performances.
- Camposanto Monumentale: The Camposanto is a monumental cemetery located on the northern side of the square. It is a cloistered structure housing frescoes and artwork from different periods. The garden within the Camposanto provides a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere.
- Museo dell'Opera del Duomo: This museum houses an impressive collection of sculptures, artifacts, and religious relics from the buildings in the Piazza dei Miracoli. It offers visitors a deeper understanding of the history and artistic significance of the complex.
- Ticketing Information: To enter the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Camposanto, and the Leaning Tower, visitors need to purchase tickets. Tickets can be bought on-site or in advance, and it's advisable to book the Leaning Tower climb in advance due to limited daily entries.
- Accessibility: The Piazza dei Miracoli is located within walking distance from Pisa's city center. The square is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore all the attractions on foot.
Piazza dei Miracoli
City: Pisa
Province: Pisa Region: Tuscany Landmarks: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Baptistery, Pisa Cathedral Close by: Museo delle Sinopie, Borgo Stretto, River Arno Recommended accommodation: Hotel di Stefano |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
Year: 1987
Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
Year: 1987