The city of Pisa with its picturesque Campo dei Miracoli treated as one of the main tourist destinations of Italy. Duomo, Falling Tower and Camposanto are the unsurpassed masterpieces of the Middle Ages.
These buildings were built in the time of Golden Era of the city when Republic of Pisa was the one of the main marine forces of Europe. The fleet of Pisa took part in the The First Crusade and thanks to it Crusaders were able to capture important ports on the Middle East.
Decline of the city began after the city’s harbor (which was built by Romans) has been filled with silt and sea retreated from the city. Once Pisa lost its marine power the city quickly declined and fall under the rule of the neighboring Florence.
I can’t say that Florence domination was harsh for the city. The rulers of Florence did a lot for the Pisa. For example, they established University in the city which still is one of Italy’s major high schools.
After the World War II Pisa has been transformed into the industrial center. But all factories in the city located on its suburbs and they not prevent you to test a charm of this magnificent city.
Most of the city’s visitors restrict themselves by the Campo dei Miracoli. But here I want to give you a glance on the others monuments of the city and instigate you to stay here a little more.
Next to the Campo dei Miracoli you will find the Piazza dei Cavalieri – mediaeval heart of the city. Later this square has been redesigned by Vasari and became the headquarter of the Knights of St Stephen. In front of their main office - Palazzo dei Cavalieri – there is statue of Cosimo I who was founder of the Order. Next building to Palazzo dei Cavalieri is Santo Stefano church inside of which you can find flags captured in marine battles with Turks.
If you cross Piazza dei Martiri della Libertа you will find Santa Caterina church which originates from 1251. It’s nice example of Romanesque architecture in the city. Don’t miss the works of Nicola Pisano inside as well as the 14th century murals Triumph of Thomas Aquinas.
Next to it there are Roman remnants – ruins of Roman Bath complex which presumably has been built in the first century. Also San Zeno – oldest church in the Pisa – stands close to the ruins.
The Via Dini which merges into the Borgo Stretto lays on your way to the Arno River. Borgo Stretto is a pedestrian area with a lot of restaurants and cafes. Also on the Borgo Stretto you will find the local market.
Another wonderful church in Pisa – San Michele – stands on the site of ancient Roman temple.
Going further on Borgo Stretto you will find the main bridge of Pisa – Ponte di Mezzo. If you cross the river you will reach the University district of the city which is located near the Piazza Dante. City’s botanical garden – Orto Botanico – which originates from 1591 lies just behind of this square.
Another interesting sight of the Pisa – Arsenale Mediceo – located at the Lungarno Simonelli street. Today this building is a home for the Roman war ships which were excavated in 1998 on the site of ancient Roman port.
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