Duomo di Pisa (Pisa Cathedral), Pisa (must see)

Pisa Cathedral is a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture, located in the heart of the Miracles Square. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries, the cathedral features a stunning white marble façade with intricate carvings and a mix of Byzantine and Islamic architectural influences. Standing in front of the cathedral, if you look at the four rows of open galleries above the entrance, you will find several smaller round arches, which are a typical feature of Moorish architecture.

A must-see highlight in the cathedral is the pulpit by Giovanni Pisano, completed in the early 14th century. A prime example of Gothic sculpture, this pulpit features detailed reliefs depicting scenes from Christ’s life, such as the Nativity, Crucifixion, and Last Judgment. The flowing, expressive figures show Pisano’s mastery in combining religious narrative with an elegant artistic style. You can find the pulpit on a raised platform on the north side of the nave, toward the left side from the main entrance when facing the altar.

In the apse, visitors can admire the mosaic of Christ in Majesty, a medieval masterpiece dating back to the 13th century. The vibrant gold-backed mosaic shows Christ surrounded by angels and saints, radiating a divine presence that draws visitors into the sacred space. The large golden apse mosaic is on a semi-circular wall above the main altar.

Another intriguing feature of the cathedral is its granite Corinthian columns, which were brought from Palermo, Elba Island, and Sardinia, reflecting the city’s historical ties and its cosmopolitan influence during the medieval period.

Few visitors know that the cathedral also leans—though less pronounced than the famous Leaning Tower. The slight tilt is a result of the unstable foundation that also affected the tower. If you look from outside the cathedral, you should be able to see it.

For those with an interest in science, the cathedral is also famous for inspiring Galileo Galilei. The story goes that Galileo observed a swinging lamp in the cathedral and noticed its regular motion. This observation helped him develop his theory of the pendulum. Today, one can still see a lamp hanging in the cathedral’s main nave, though the original lamp observed by Galileo is now stored in the Monumental Cemetery.

With its artistic, architectural, and historical significance, Pisa Cathedral offers a rich and fascinating experience for visitors.