Pisa Cathedral: Description, History, Curiosities (and Tickets)

If you are planning a trip to Tuscany and don’t want to miss the opportunity to visit the Duomo of Pisa you are in the right place.

I welcome you! In this article, I will guide you to discover the secrets of Pisa Cathedral, I will take you through its thousand-year history, thanks to which you will discover every nook and cranny of this magnificent architectural work.

Find out what to visit inside, opening hours, how to get there, and how to buy tickets to skip the line.

We will immerse ourselves in its history rich in cosmopolitan influences, where architectural styles blend harmoniously, creating a building that enchants with its majesty and elegance, inviting you to discover one of the most iconic monuments of this region and of Italy as a whole.

I will guide you to discover its treasures, from the polychrome marbles to the striking loggia, from the marble inlays to the famous bronze lamp, which is said to have inspired even Galileo.

You will have the opportunity to admire the high altar, with its magnificent mosaic, also the result of Cimabue’s drawings.

Are you ready to immerse yourself in this world of sculpture, where every detail tells a story and the story itself seems to come alive from the marble artworks?

Wait! Before you start to dive into the reading, I have a quick warning for you: consider that to avoid long lines for the Piazza dei Miracoli attractions, especially if you are traveling with children and want to make the experience as smooth as possible, it is advisable to buy your tickets online in advance. Click below to book your admission and enjoy a stress-free visit to Pisa Cathedral and other monuments in Piazza dei Miracoli!

Pisa Cathedral: description

The Cathedral of Pisa is located in the square known as the “Campus of Miracles” that brings together some of the maximum masterpieces of Romanesque architecture in Italy.

The Duomo, along with its Campanile, is one of those buildings that tell of Pisa’s economic and political power, the result of its thriving maritime fleet.

The building of the Cathedral was possible thanks to the rich spoils of war, particularly those obtained from the expedition against the Arabs in Palermo. Pisa, in fact, gave decisive support to the Normans during their conquest of Sicily. .

The majestic marble colossus stands between the lush green of the meadow and the enveloping blue of the clouds. It is a place masterfully guarded over the centuries, preserving intact the poetry of its geometries.

its original structure is that of a Latin cross, with five naves in the longitudinal body and three in the transept. The chancel and transept are apsidal, while the dome above the cross vault assumes the elliptical shape.

The entire building evokes architectural suggestions typical of Muslim culture, evident in its pointed arches and the majesty of the elliptical dome, tangible evidence of its cosmopolitan character and the meeting of cultures that this monument embodies.

What to see in Pisa Cathedral

The Cathedral is distinguished by its classical proportions and measurements, where they skillfully blend elements of antiquity with references to Muslim architecture.

But it is in the sculptural activity of the craftsmen working inside and outside the Cathedral that a significant artistic record resides.

The Pisan school of sculpture, in fact, emerged as one of the most preeminent in Italy in the second half of the thirteenth century, with such illustrious names as Nicola and Giovanni Pisano resonating among the most celebrated artisans.

Examples of Pisan sculptural art related to the construction of the Cathedral are now housed at the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.

The rich interior of the cathedral is home to numerous shrines and tombs, most notably those of Matteo Rinucci and San Ranieri, Pisa’s patron saint, celebrated each year with the striking Luminaria on June 16 and the Regatta on the Arno on June 17.

The major nave has a wooden coffered decoration carved following the fire that damaged the flat roof.

Inside the cathedral is located the majestic Pergamo, sculpted by Giovanni Pisano between 1302 and 1310. Although separated in 1602, it was carefully reunited in 1926.

This circular structure is supported by 11 supporting elements and is an artistic masterpiece of extraordinary narrative and doctrinal complexity due to the wealth of symbols and images depicted in it.

The parapet of the Pulpit, in particular, presents scenes from the Life of Christ executed in a dramatic and almost Gothic artistic language.

It is presumed that several sculptural groups that were part of the Pergamum were lost during the 1602 separation; however, five remain preserved today, silent witnesses to Giovanni Pisano’s artistry and artistic depth.

The interior of the cathedral houses a rich apparatus of frescoes and mosaics such as the Christ Pantocrator, which extends into the apse basin, flanked by the Virgin and St. John the Evangelist.

The famous fresco in the dome of the Cathedral, depicting The Assumption of the Virgin and made with an encaustic technique, is the work of Orazio Riminaldi and his brother Girolamo. 

In the presbytery area of the Cathedral are works by Andrea del Sarto, including St. Margaret, St. Catherine, St. John the Baptist, St. Agnes and St. Peter, originally part of a main altar.

The original structure of the pulpit is the work of Master William who worked on it between 1156 and 1162.

The building’s exterior appearance is the result of various overlappingand different styles over time.The facades show an alternation of overlapping orders of blind arches, characteristic of the Romanesque period, accompanied by a lively variety of contrasting colors.

Of particular note is the apse, which features a double row of loggias surrounding its apsidal basin.

In the bottom area of the apse there are blind arches and added columns. From the decorative point of view, there is a polychromy of the vestments and the revival of eastern motifs such as the decoration of recessed rhombuses in marble inlays.

The elliptical dome, a graft between the longitudinal arm of the structure and the transect of the cross vault is the culminating core of the Cathedral.

The original façade, created by Buscheto was torn down and replaced between 1120 and 1125 by Rainaldo who, in elaborating the new façade of the Cathedral, took up some of Buscheto’s decorative motifs such as the overlapping loggias: the so-called Buschetian loggias.

On the eastern side opens the Gate of San Ranieri, the entrance to the cathedral, studded with the Bronzebattens by Bonanno da Pisa depicting scenes from the Life of Christ such as the Annunciation, the Escape to Egypt, Adoration of the Shepherds, the Baptism in the Jordan, Adoration of the Magi.

The tiles present an absence of spatiality, reflecting the influence of Byzantine art, while their narrative language refers to the characteristics of Romanesque art.

Bonanno, a disciple of Master Guglielmo, is the author of the famous Porta Regia, unfortunately lost in a fire in 1595. Later, Bonanno moved to Palermo, where he made the majestic doors of Monreale Cathedral.

The bronze shutters of the cathedral, made after 1595,on the other hand, are the work of artists belonging to the circle of Giambologna. The panels feature a very rich decoration in the late Mannerist style. Episodes from the Life of the Virgin are depicted.

History of Pisa Cathedral

Thework on the construction of the Cathedral began in 1063 on the site of an earlier Byzantine church dedicated toSt. Reparata. In 1118 Pope Gelasius II consecrated it although it was not yet finished. 

The cathedral, dedicated to St. Mary of the Assumption and built in the Romanesque style, saw the guidance of three distinct architects during its construction.

Buscheto was the first to work on this imposing building, presenting an ambitious project, though not without its challenges. The Cathedral was completed in the first quarter of the 12th century under his direction.

Later, between 1120 and 1125, work was led by Rainald, who replaced Buscheto’s original facade. Rainaldo extended the main archway by adding three bays.

Later phases saw Master William take the helm, directing the work between 1159 and 1162. William completed the construction of the facade, emphasizing the blind arches, already present on the sides of the Cathedral, which were supported by classical-style columns instead of pilasters.

Pisa Cathedral: curiosities

An Angel puts the Devil on the run, who, as he escapes, leaves his claws imprinted on the facade

On the Cathedral of Pisa, on the side facing the Camposanto, are the mysterious Devil’s Nails, a consecutive series ofholes cut into the marble facade.

According to ancient legend,the Devil, jealous of the beauty of Miracle Square, attempted to destroy the monuments. However, an angel intervened, putting him to flight. In an attempt to cling to the Cathedral, the Devil left his nails etched on the marble stone.

A curious peculiarity fuels this legend:Pisans tell that every time they try to count the holes, the number obtained is always different, adding an aura of mystery to this fascinating tale.

Useful info: schedules, prices, how to get there

This is the “practical” section where we discuss how to get there, where to park, and how to visit Pisa Cathedral.

Where it is located and how to get to Pisa Cathedral

The Cathedral of Pisa is located in the famous Piazza dei Miracoli, in the eponymous city of Pisa.

GPS coordinates are 43° 43′ 21.59″ N, 10° 23′ 45.59″ E

By train

If you arrive by train, as you exit the station you will find yourself in Station Square. From here:

• Proceed straight through a traffic circle and Vittorio Emanuele Square until you reach Corso Italia.
• Continue along Corso Italia to the Arno River. Cross the Ponte Vecchio and, on your right, you will find Piazza Garibaldi. Walk along it to an intersection and turn left into Borgo Stretto.
• You will find Via Ulisse Dini on your left: take it and you will arrive in Piazza Dei Cavalieri, where the historic headquarters of the Normale di Pisa is located. In the same square stands the tower that tells the tragic story of Count Ugolino and his sons, narrated by Dante in the Divine Comedy.
• Continue on Via Corsica to Piazza Francesco Buonamici and continue on Via Dei mille to Piazza Felice Cavallotti.
• From here, take Via Santa Maria, where you will find numerous restaurants and tourist spots.
• On your right, walk down Via Santa Maria until you reach Piazza Dei Miracoli, where the Cathedral of pisa is located.

By car

If you plan to arrive in Pisa by car, you can take the highway exit Pisa Centro, and then follow the signs to Piazza dei Miracoli. Below is a list of parking lots (free and not) where you can leave your car for the duration of your stay:

• Via Pietrasantina (free parking): Located outside the city walls, near Pisa Stadium. Shuttle available to Miracles Square-about 1km from Miracles Square.
• Via Paparelli (free parking): Outside the city walls. Free except on Wednesdays and Saturdays (market days)-about 1km from Piazza dei Miracoli.
• Via Pratale (free parking): North of Pisa, near the stadium. Free parking with possibility to reach the Tower by bus or on foot-about 3km from Piazza dei Miracoli.
• Via Cammeo (paid parking): Behind the Leaning Tower. Daytime rate: 2€/hour, nighttime: 1€/hour-about 150 meters from Piazza dei Miracoli.
• Via Vecchia Barbaricina (paid parking): Next to the previous parking lot. Single fee: 1.50€/hour-about 150 meters from Piazza dei Miracoli.
• Piazza Vittorio Emanuele (paid parking): Near Pisa Central Station, about 2km from the Tower. Rate: 2€/hour-about 2km from Piazza dei Miracoli.

For more information, read the article on how to get to the Field of Miracles.

Cathedral Hours

The Cathedral of Pisa is open dailyfrom 10 a.m. to 8 p.m..

Holy Mass is celebrated at 8 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. Monday through Saturday while Sunday at 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 6 p.m..

The best time to visit the Cathedral is lunchtime (between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.) or after 5 p.m. because of the low attendance of tourists.

Entry to the monuments is allowed until 30 minutes before closing while Piazza Dei Miracoli remains always open to the public even when the monuments are closed.

Where to eat near Pisa Cathedral

Adjacent to Piazza Dei Miracoli you will find Via Santa Maria where the city’s main tourist venues are concentrated.

If you are looking for a place for your lunch break that is traditional but at the same time of allows you to take a short break and then go right back to your visits without wasting additional time I have the right place for you! 

At the end of Via Santa Maria, in Piazza Felice Cavallotti is The Ostellino. 

This small eatery over the years has earned numerous Trip Advisor awards of excellence and an enviable list of excellent reviews and for that matter excellent are also the raw materials of its famous sandwiches.

The restaurant has two outdoor seating areas not far from the venue and has the ability to accommodate large groups. The menu focuses mainly on meat and charcuterie but there are also vegetable options.

Where to sleep near Pisa Cathedral

If you would like to stay near Pisa Cathedral and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Piazza dei Miracoli, you can consider a few options.

• Residenza d’Epoca Relais I Miracoli: just 70 meters from the Leaning Tower, offers a historic atmosphere and elegant rooms;
• Hotel Pisa Tower: located about 150 meters from the Tower of Pisa, boasts air-conditioned rooms with views of the tower itself;
• Grand Hotel Duomo Pisa: just a 2-minute walk from the Piazza del Duomo and Leaning Tower, offers a rooftop bar and rooftop terrace with views of the city.

All of these options are located right in the Piazza dei Miracoli area and provide convenient access to Pisa’s main attractions.

Attractions near Pisa Cathedral

Immerse yourself in the essence of Pisa, in the famous Piazza dei Miracoli! Here, you will have the opportunity to admire not only the extraordinary Leaning Tower, originally conceived as the campanile of the Duomo.

You will be able to explore the striking Camposanto, where the remains of illustrious figures who forged the destiny of this city rest, enriched by marvelous cycles of frescoes that tell millennia-old stories.

But the wonders don’t end there! Continue your journey through art and history by visitingthe Museo dell’Opera del Duomo and the impressive Museo delle Sinopie, where paintings and ancient relics come to life.

And when you look up in front of the entrance to the Duomo, you cannot help but be enchanted by the majesty of the Baptistery, which stands proud, ready to tell you its thousand-year history with every stone and every detail.

In this timeless setting, every step is a journey into Pisa’s glorious past, a unique experience that will leave you breathless.

Pisa Cathedral tickets

There are tickets to visit all the monuments (excluding the Tower) for €15: also the Cathedral is included in the ticket.

The cumulative tickets to visit the monuments in the square are between 15€ and 42€ depending on which monuments you want to visit and a possible guided tour (all tickets include Cathedral).

My advice is to buy the ticket for the guided tour of Tower of Pisa + Cathedral and Baptistery, but below I leave you the list of all the tickets available to visit the different attractions.

Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta Pisa: frequently asked questions

Cathedral of the Square of Miracles Pisa: conclusions

Thus we come to the conclusion of this article dedicated to the wonderfulDome of Pisa, one of the city’s most celebrated attractions. I have guided you through the history, curiosities and legends surrounding this monument.

We explored its artistic history and architecture, admired its interiors richly decorated with frescoes and mosaics, and contemplated its impressive exterior structure, with bronze doors accentuating its fame.

We also figured out how to get there, parking options, and the how to go about buying tickets online.

If you need more information, please leave a comment below; however, if you would like to visit the Cathedral, the Camposanto or other attractions in the Piazza dei Miracoli, buy your ticket for the guided tour, skipping the queue at the ticket office.