The Field of Miracles in Pisa: Explore European History

At the last leg of our trip to Italy we took a day trip to Pisa. A city rich in history and culture, is a gem nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. While it’s often synonymous with its famous leaning tower, there’s so much more to explore.

Pisa is about an hour and a half just west of Florence, Italy.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

You can’t miss the Leaning Tower of Pisa when visiting Pisa. This architectural marvel, part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, began leaning during construction due to unstable foundation soil. The tilt has been partially corrected, but it remains a fascinating sight.

View from below or climb the 294 steps to the top for a breathtaking view of the city. Don’t forget to snap the classic tourist photo ‘holding up’ the tower. The best spot for this is on the

Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles)

Why You Can’t Miss It: The Leaning Tower is just one part of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The Piazza dei Miracoli is home to an ensemble of stunning medieval architecture including the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Campo Santo (cemetery).

What to Do: Stroll around the piazza to admire the grandeur of the Romanesque architecture. Visit the Cathedral and Baptistery, and take in the serene beauty of the Campo Santo with its exquisite frescoes.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta – Cattedrale di Pisa

The heart of the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is an architectural masterpiece. Its intricate facade and majestic interiors showcase the artistic and cultural prowess of medieval Pisa.

What to Do: Explore the cathedral’s interior, marvel at the ornate pulpit by Giovanni Pisano, and don’t miss the impressive mosaics and artworks.

The Baptistery of St. John- Battistero di San Giovanni

My personal favorite place we visited in Pisa was the Battistero di San Giovanni. The largest of its kind in Italy, is renowned for its remarkable acoustics and stunning architecture blending Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Experience the acoustics firsthand during the periodic demonstrations, where a single note echoes beautifully. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Camposanto Monumentale

This is a resting place but a treasure trove of history and art. The walls are adorned with frescoes, and the cloister is a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist spots.

Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

This museum houses a collection of art and artifacts from the Piazza dei Miracoli, offering deeper insights into the history and artistry of the cathedral and the other buildings in the square.

Borgo Stretto

Why You Can’t Miss It: Borgo Stretto is a charming street lined with medieval arcades, shops, cafes, and historical buildings. It’s a perfect place to experience the local vibe and enjoy some shopping or a relaxing coffee.

Stroll through the street, enjoy the local boutiques, and indulge in some authentic Italian cuisine at one of the many cafes and restaurants.