I stood gazing at the mind-boggling architectural complex
sandwiched between the green grass and the blue sky for a while that I even
forgot to capture the frame. All that I wanted to do was enjoy the mesmerising structures
in oblivion at the Square of Miracles. The spectacular creations with
magnificent architecture stands intimidating as visitors compulsively stood in front of cameras with the ubiquitous ‘Pushing the Leaning Tower of Pisa’ pose. While the
leaning tower has taken all the attention over the years at this UNESCO World
Heritage site, the square which is locally referred as Piazza dei Miracoli also
houses a baptistery, a cathedral, a cemetery and museums.
A popular one day getaway from Florence, Pisa is located in
the beautiful Tuscany and is renowned for its iconic leaning tower which was
once a part of the Seven Wonders of the World. From Florence there are
frequent trains to Pisa, where one can take a 10 minute bus ride from the
station to the Square of Miracles.
Battistero di San Giovanni or the Baptistery of St. John is
the first gorgeous structure in the complex. The construction began in mid
12th century and it took more than two centuries to complete the same. Though
built in Roman architecture, there are also influences of gothic and byzantine
style. This is the largest baptistery in Italy and is adorned with stunning
works on its outer façade. However, the decorations inside are quite limited
with the bronze statue of St. John and the carved pulpit being the major
attractions. One can go to the higher floor to have an aerial view of the baptistery.
Cattedrale di Pisa or the Cathedral with its numerous marble
pillared exterior stands tall facing the baptistery. Built in late 11th
century, the cathedral also referred as the Duomo is dedicated to St. Mary of
the Assumption. The interiors are characterized by beautiful granite pillars in
Corinthian style. With undulating motifs and colourful marble works, the
cathedral has rich art works all around. Extensive decorations can be seen on
its large doors, along its aisles on either side and on the gorgeous ceiling. The
pulpit, Galileo’s lamp and art works atop the large doors are the other major
attractions of the cathedral.
Behind the cathedral is the ever popular campanile or bell
tower, commonly referred as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Completed in the 14th
century, this renowned structure is known for its tilt. The structure tilted while
it was under construction, and gradually stabilized over the years and also due
to restoration which reduced the tilt from 5.5 degrees to 3.99 degrees in the late
20th century. Designed by architect, Diotisalvi, the tower has seven
floors with numerous beautiful pillars and a winding stairs that goes all the
way to the top which has a huge bell.
To the left of the cathedral is Camposanto Monumentale or
the monumental cemetery which is referred as the holy field as it is built over
a huge load of sacred oil brought from Calvary in the 12th century.
Beneath this burial ground lies the ruin of an old baptistery. The walls of the
cloister here have beautiful but faded frescoes and it also has a well
maintained garden. The cemetery once had numerous art collections, but very few
remain now.
Capitoline Wolf or Lupa Capitolina, the symbol of Rome located
to the left of the leaning tower is another attraction in this complex. The
sculpture of a mythical she-wolf and suckling twins- Romulus and Remus is of
great importance in Roman history. Next to this lies the bronze statue of Fall
of Icarus.
Fontana Di Putti or Fountain with Angels has a sculpture of
three angels above a small fountain located near the leaning tower.
Museum of the Opera of Cathedral and Museum of the Sinopie
are the two museums inside this magnificent complex.
Travel Tips:
- Stay in Florence and make a day trip to Pisa. The Square of Miracles can be covered in half a day.
- Trains from Florence to Pisa run frequently and takes an hour to reach. From Pisa Centrale station take Lam Rossa bus to Square of Miracles. The bus can be boarded just outside the sation. Bus tickets can be bought from the small shops near the station.
- Tickets are not required to stroll around the complex. However, to go inside the baptistery, cathedral and cemetery, one needs to buy tickets.
- To go up the Pisa tower, tickets are separate and people are allowed to go up in small batches.
- There are numerous cafes and restaurants in the surrounding lanes.
wonderful :)
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked it.
DeleteInformative.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shots of the place.
ReplyDeleteThank you.
DeleteAn amazing monument to visit thanks for sharing this experience with us.
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