Santa Cecilia Church, Pisa

You shouldn’t miss a visit to the charming Santa Cecilia church which stands on the corner of Via Santa Cecilia and Via San Francesco. The church was built in 1103 by the Camaldolese monks, although construction was finally completed in the 13th century. The simple façade is of stone and brick and you will notice many ceramic Islamic and Pisan bowls set into the wall around the lancet window above the entrance, along the edging of the roof and in various points on the bell tower. These are replicas of the 13th century originals, which were removed during restoration work after the church suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. If you would like to see the original bowls, you will find them in the National Museum of San Matteo.

The bell tower was also repaired and rebuilt after the war. It was completed in 1236 and consists of a granite stele with narrow mullioned windows and a pyramid-like roof. Above the door inside is the family crest of Agostini della Seta, who was a patron and benefactor of the church. You will also be able to admire the “Martyrdom of Saint Cecilia”, painted in 1607 by Ventura Salimbeni.