Monumental Cemetery of Pisa: Description, History, Frescoes and Curiosities

If you are planning a trip to Pisa and would like to visit the Monumental Cemetery, you are in the right place! In this article, I will offer you a comprehensive guide on how to get to this amazing attraction, where to buy tickets and what the prices are, as well as the best times to visit this place rich in history and beauty.

I will take you through the history of the Camposanto, revealing the secrets of its frescoes and offering an overview of the art and architecture that characterize this magnificent building. We will explore together the sarcophagi kept inside and discover which illustrious figures from Pisa’s history rest in this sacred place.

So, if you are curious to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Monumental Cemetery and discover all its hidden treasures, keep reading and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Pisa!

Are you ready? Let’s get started!

Wait. Before you start reading the article, a little advice: you should know that the Pisa Cemetery is located in Piazza Dei Miracoli and to visit it you risk running into long lines and losing useful time to visit the monuments in the square. To get inside the attraction by skipping the line at the entrance I recommend you buy your ticket online. Click below to book your admission and enter inside the Pisa Cemetery in an instant.

Description of the Pisa Cemetery

The Old Cemetery of Pisa, located in the renowned Piazza Dei Miracoli, represents a precious architectural and historical jewel of the city. Originally conceived in the Romanesque style, characterized by imposing arches,over the centuries it has undergone Gothic influences, evident in the splendid four-light windows and intricate arches that decorate the structure.

This monumentis not only a burial place, but also a treasure trove of art and history, as it hosts the tombs and funerary monuments of Pisa’s most illustrious families, nobility, guilds, and clergy. Here you can admire a wide variety of funerary monuments, ranging from Roman times through the Middle Ages to more recent times, evidence of the rich history of the city and its most prominent families.

But what makes the Cemetery truly unique is its exquisite fresco cycle, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Pisa. The sinopites of these frescoes, or preparatory drawings, can be seen at the Museo delle Sinopie, also located in Piazza Dei Miracoli, offering visitors a chance to further immerse themselves in the art and history of this extraordinary city.

Ultimately, the Old Cemetery of Pisa is much more than a burial place: it is a true open-air museum, full of artistic and historical treasures that deserve to be explored and appreciated by all who visit the city.

Read on to find out what to see inside the Pisa Cemetery.

Visit to the Pisa Cemetery: what to see

Frescoes of the Pisa Cemetery

The frescoes inside Pisa’s Monumental Cemetery constitute an extraordinary testimony to the city’s art and history. These works of art, painted directly on the walls of the cemetery, tell biblical, mythological and historical stories, offering a fascinating glimpse into the culture and religiosity of the time. Dating from different periods, from the dawn of the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, the frescoes in the Cemetery represent a treasure of inestimable artistic and historical value, testifying to the talent and skill of the artists who created them and to Pisa’s rich cultural tradition.

Triumph of Death (Buffalmacco)

Photo by Wikipedia on www.wikipedia.org

The Trionph of Death by Buonamico Buffalmacco is located on the northeast wall of the Camposanto and was made between 1336 and 1341. It stretches 15 meters and 5.6 meters high. It is one of three scenes executed by Buffalmacco in the Monumental Cemetery gravely damaged during the bombings and fires of World War II. 

The fresco was the subject of a lengthy restoration finished recently, in 2018. 

The theme exhibited repeatedly by Buffalmacco is that of the memento mori that had particular fortune in medieval times. 

The narrative development opens with an evocative and complex scene, located at the top left of the fresco cycle. Here, a group of nobles on horseback encounter a sinister vision: corpses representing in descending order the different stages of body decomposition, overlooked by a hermit who reminds them of the transitory nature of life and the certainty of death. This encounter between nobility and the stark reality of death serves as a warning to the carefree youth, underscoring the fragility and transience of human existence.

On the far right, at the bottom, stands a locus amoenus, an idyllic place of delight, where a procession of nobles revels oblivious to what is happening not far away. However, at the center of the scene, emerges the figure of winged Death, holding the scythe as a symbol of his sovereign power over every living being. Below Death, an expanse of decomposing bodies shows the cruelty and inexorability of human fate.

The souls of the dead, represented in the form of children, emerge from the mouths of the bodies, symbolizing the soul’s liberation from the prison of the mortal body. These souls are then carried away, to the left by winged devils and to the right by angelic figures, representing the final fate of souls based on their earthly actions.

The scene culminates in the upper right quadrant, where angels and demons engage in a struggle to share the souls of the dead, underscoring the conflict between good and evil, between salvation and perdition.

Finally, in the center of the scene, a group of elderly and sick figures plead for death as deliverance from their earthly suffering, highlighting the drama and universality of the theme of death and human suffering.

The Last Judgment and Hell (Buffalmacco)

The “Last Judgment” fresco, the subject of a recent restoration, presents a distinctive feature compared to Giotto’s depictions. While the Tuscan master usually combines the theme of the judgment of souls and their condemnation in a single scene, Buffalmac chooses to separate the two themes. However, the ways in which they are illustrated remain akin to Giotto’s tradition.

In the upper part of the fresco we can see the heavenly Jerusalem and the hosts of angels and the blessed, contemplating Christ. Christ’s judging hand divides the scene into two sectors: on one side the saved, on the other the damned plunged into a river of fire that drags them toward Hell. A host of angels chase the damned toward the punishments of Hell, wielding swords.

Buffalmacco’s Inferno is depicted in a precise, descending order. In the center stands Lucifer, who devours the damned with three mouths, according to tradition. The digestion and expulsion of the bodies of the damned are also depicted. This depiction cannot fail to call to mind the punishments inflicted on sinners in Dante’s Divine Comedy.

An intriguing hypothesis put forward by Giulia Ammannati, a paleographer and professor at the Scuola Normale di Pisa, suggests that among the depictions of the damned might be the figures of Dante and Virgil. Thus, the patrons of this fresco cycle, the Dominicans of the Convent of Santa Caterina and the Archbishop of Pisa, may have wanted to condemn the Supreme Poet for his works and ideas.

The Thebaid (Buffalmacco)

The fresco of the ‘Thebaid’, measuring 15.6 meters by 6.1 meters in height, although recently restored, results to be the most poorly preserved of those painted by Buffalmacco.

This pictorial representation is divided into various scenes outlining the lives of the saints of the Thebaid, an Egyptian desert region renowned for having been the refuge of hermits.

The central theme of the fresco is thus the ‘Hermitic Life’, highlighting the contrast between the ascetic and spiritual lifestyle of the hermits and the sinful life of the nobles portrayed in the other fresco cycles of the same era.

Other frescoes in the Pisa Cemetery

During the tragic events of World War II, numerous frescoes in the Cemetery were severely damaged by bombing. In particular, a violent attack caused the building’s lead roof to melt.

Among the fresco cycles in the Cemetery, there are works of inestimable artistic and historical value. Prominent among them are:

• “Le Storie di San Ranieri”: This cycle of frescoes depicts the life and miracles of Saint Rainier, the patron saint of the city of Pisa. The images narrate significant episodes of his life and divine interventions.
• “Le Storie di Giobbe”: Created by artist Taddeo Gaddi, this cycle deals with the theme of Job’s vicissitudes. Scenes include Job’s Convocation, Satan’s Pact with God, Job’s Misfortunes and Job’s Patience.
• “Storie dell’Antico Testamento”: This vast cycle of frescoes includes a variety of stories from the Holy Scriptures. Representations include the stories of Esther and Ahasuerus, a Theological Cosmography with concentric circles and angelic hosts, the cycle of Adam and Eve, the story of Cain and Abel, the Stories of Isaac, the Building of the Tower of Babel, the burning of Sodom, the Crossing of the Red Sea, and Moses’ encounter with the tablets of the law. These works offer an extraordinary window on spirituality and biblical narrative in medieval art.

Sarcophagi

The sarcophagi housed in Pisa’s Old Cemetery have a fascinating history and importance beyond their original funerary significance. Originally placed along the sides of the Cathedral, these sarcophagi are eloquent examples of reuse during the medieval and Renaissance periods. In the complex, where monuments of various periods and styles coexist, the sarcophagi add a distinctive element.

Among the most notable sarcophagi are the “Sarcophagus of Hippolytus and Phaedra”, dating from the 2nd century A.D., and that of the “Good Shepherd and the Muses” from the same period. Another work worth mentioning is the “Sarcophagus of the Hunting of Meleager to the Calydonian Boar”, dating from the 3rd century. Their presence also influenced some statuary elements of the Pisa Baptistery.

The reuse of sarcophagi to house the bodies of noble citizens contributed to their preservation and their arrival to the present day.

Inside the Old Cemetery are also numerous Roman epigraphs, which add additional layers of historical and cultural significance to this extraordinary place. Interestingly, the Old Cemetery was one of the first public museums to be established in Europe, further underscoring its importance as a place of preservation and study of the city’s ancient history.

The Pisa Cemetery: history

The legend linking the Monumental Cemetery to the sacred ashes of Mount Golgotha brings an aura of mystery and fascination to its history. However, the original core of this majestic structure dates back to 1278, thanks to the work of architect Giovanni di Simone.

The initial design featured a rectangular floor plan, with two doors opening onto an inner courtyard surrounded by blind arcades on pilasters.

Although the original layout was that of a three-aisled basilica, over the centuries the Cemetery has undergone numerous transformations and structural changes. The floors of the arcades were once the final resting place for distinguished citizens and members of aristocratic families, while various funerary monuments, including sarcophagi dating back to Roman times, found their way along the walls.

What makes the Monumental Cemetery truly unique is its rich mixture of historical and artistic elements from different eras and places. In addition to Roman sarcophagi, one can find Medieval and Renaissance sculptures, along with examples of Hellenistic and early Christian sculpture.

Medieval sculpture elements from the cathedral mingle with Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical tombs, creating a fascinating collage of history and art that testifies to Pisa’s long and rich history.

Camposanto Pisa: curiosities

Here is a list of 5 curiosities about the Monumental Cemetery in Pisa:

1. Galileo Galilei’s lamp: In the Monumental Cemetery is the lamp that, according to tradition, was used by Galileo Galilei to theorise the isochronism of the pendulum. Although the theory was originally formulated by Galileo in the 16th century, it was the Dutch mathematician Christiaan Huygens who perfected it.
2. The Lamp in the Aulla Chapel: Originally located inside the Cathedral, Galileo’s lamp is now in the Aulla Chapel of the Cemetery. This chapel is located on the opposite side from the main entrance, on the north wall, and can be reached by crossing the inner courtyard.
3. Legends and Mysteries: The Cemetery is surrounded by legends and mysteries, including stories of ghosts and paranormal presences. Some visitors claim to have felt strange sensations while exploring the cemetery at night.
4. Damaged frescoes: During World War II, many of the frescoes in the Cemetery were severely damaged by bombing. This damage is still visible today, despite subsequent restoration efforts.
5. The link with the Divine Comedy: Scholars suggest that some of the characters depicted in the Camposanto frescoes may have been inspired by the Divine Comedy of Dante Alighieri, who visited Pisa in the 14th century.

These curiosities add fascination and depth to a visit to the Monumental Cemetery, making the experience even more engaging and fascinating.

Useful information: schedules, prices, how to get there

Where it is located and how to get to the Pisa Cemetery

Due to its central location, the Monumental Cemetery is easily accessible on foot from various points in Pisa.

If you arrive by train, you will exit into the Station Square and from there you can follow several roads to reach Piazza Dei Miracoli.

A scenic route that I recommend is as follows:

• From Station Square proceed straight ahead until you reach a traffic circle, then cross Vittorio Emanuele Square.
• Continue on Corso Italia until it becomes Via di Banchi; follow this road to the Arno.
• Once on the Middle Bridge, cross it and turn right to reach Garibaldi Square.
• From there, take Borgo Stretto until you meet Via Ulisse Dini, which will lead you to Piazza Dei Cavalieri.
• After crossing this historic square, continue along Via Corsica to Piazza Francesco Buonamici and then along Via Dei Mille to Piazza Felice Cavallotti.
• From there, take Via Santa Maria, where you will find numerous restaurants and tourist bars.
• Continue along Via Santa Maria until you reach Piazza Dei Miracoli.

The Monumental Cemetery is located on the opposite side of the piazza, just after the Baptistery. This route will allow you to explore some of Pisa’s most striking places along the way, enriching your experience of visiting the city.

Cemetery Hours

The hours of the Pisa Cemetery are as follows: it is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m..

ut however, to avoid the influx of tourists, you might consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon. Avoid the time from 12 noon to 3:30 p.m., when visitor numbers are at their highest.

It is important to keep in mind that last entry to monuments is allowed until 30 minutes before closing time.

In addition, it is interesting to note that on November 1 and 2, on the Feast of the Dead and All Saints Day, there is no need to pay for a ticket to enter the Cemetery.

This could be an ideal time to visit this fascinating attraction at no extra cost.

Where to eat near the Pisa Cemetery

If you are looking for a place where to eat in Pisa, I recommend visiting the Osteria dei Cavalieri, one of the city’s most famous and historic typical osterias. Located at 16 Via S. Frediano, right in the historic center and within walking distance of Piazza Dei Miracoli, the osteria offers an authentic and genuine dining experience.

The Osteria dei Cavalieri is open for lunch from 12:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. and in the evening for dinner from 7:45 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.. Here you can enjoy the best of Pisan cuisine, from the simplest to the most refined dishes, all in a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

The tavern’s menu offers a wide selection of dishes, including hors d’oeuvres, seafood and meat entrees, vegetarian dishes and delicious desserts, all accompanied by a wide selection of local and national wines.

In addition, Osteria dei Cavalieri also offers special menus for especially large groups, with at least 15 people, to ensure a memorable dining experience for all tastes and needs.

Where to sleep near the Pisa Cemetery

If you are looking for accommodation near the Pisa Cemetery with beautiful views of the Piazza dei Miracoli, here are some suggestions:

• Residenza d’Epoca Relais I Miracoli: Just 70 meters from the Leaning Tower, this property offers a historic atmosphere and rooms of refined elegance.
• Hotel Pisa Tower: Located about 150 meters from the Tower of Pisa, it has air-conditioned rooms with direct views of the tower itself.
• Grand Hotel Duomo Pisa: Just a 2-minute walk from the Piazza del Duomo and Leaning Tower, this hotel offers a rooftop bar and terrace with breathtaking views of the city.

All of these options are located in the heart of Piazza dei Miracoli, providing convenient access to Pisa’s main attractions.

Nearby attractions

The Camposanto di Pisa is located in Piazza Dei Miracoli, where there are main attractions to visit.

In Piazza Del Duomo, in addition to the Monumental Cemetery, you will find:

• the Cathedral and its bell tower;
• the Leaning Tower;
• the Baptistery;
• the Sinopie Museum;
• the Museum of the Opera del Duomo.

Tickets for the Pisa Cemetery

What are the types of tickets available for visiting the Pisa Cemetery?

The minimum ticket includes a visit to a pair of monuments:the Cathedral and the Cemetery at 7€. 

There are cumulative tickets that also include a visit to the Cemetery whose price is between 10€ and 42€ depending on which monuments you want to visit and a possible guided tour. 

I recommend you take a look at the list of monument tickets featured in the Square of Miracles.

Pisa Cemetery: frequently asked questions

Monumental Cemetery Pisa: conclusions

It has been a pleasure to accompany you on this journey through the history and art of the Pisa Cemetery! I hope the information provided was helpful to you in planning your visit and that you were able to discover the beauty and cultural richness of this extraordinary place.

If you have further questions or need more information, please feel free to leave a comment below. I will be more than happy to help you further.

And if you decide to visit the Baptistery, the Camposanto, or other attractions in the Piazza dei Miracoli, I highly recommend buying tickets online to skip the ticket office line and fully enjoy your experience.