San Francesco Church
An ancient church in Pisa, famed for its unique suspended arch bell tower and rich medieval art, currently undergoing restoration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
San Francesco Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient church in Pisa, famed for its unique suspended arch bell tower and rich medieval art, currently undergoing restoration.
"A must-see for its simple exterior and very interesting interior featuring valuable works of art."
Check Restoration Status
Confirm current access before visiting due to ongoing restoration work. :informationdeskperson:
Appreciate the Art
Look for works by Cimabue and Giotto; some pieces are historically significant. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Unique Bell Tower
Exterior
A tall, technologically unique bell tower resting on a suspended arch, a marvel of its time.
Large Stained Glass Windows
Interior
Impressive stained glass windows, some dating back to 1345, with 20th-century restoration contributions.
Artistic Masterpieces
Interior
Home to works by Giunta Pisano, Cimabue, Giotto, and Spinello Aretino, showcasing medieval Italian art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Restoration Status & Access
Artistic & Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Restoration Status
Confirm current access before visiting due to ongoing restoration work. :informationdeskperson:
Appreciate the Art
Look for works by Cimabue and Giotto; some pieces are historically significant. :art:
Admire the Bell Tower
The unique suspended arch bell tower is a must-see architectural feature. :bell:
Peaceful Ambiance
Enjoy the quiet and peaceful atmosphere, especially during off-peak hours. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Restoration Status
Confirm current access before visiting due to ongoing restoration work. :informationdeskperson:
Appreciate the Art
Look for works by Cimabue and Giotto; some pieces are historically significant. :art:
Admire the Bell Tower
The unique suspended arch bell tower is a must-see architectural feature. :bell:
Peaceful Ambiance
Enjoy the quiet and peaceful atmosphere, especially during off-peak hours. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the San Francesco Church for its peaceful atmosphere and significant artistic heritage, particularly works by medieval masters. The unique bell tower and stained glass windows are highlighted as architectural and visual gems. However, ongoing restoration can sometimes limit access, which is a point of consideration for planning a visit.
"The church, currently under restoration, is recognizable for its original and tall bell tower, which rests on a suspended arch, and for the large stained glass windows (1345), partly the result of 20th-century restorations in which one of the protagonists of Italian Liberty style, Galileo Chini, participated. Financial difficulties diverted the city from continuing the work on the church, which was completed in the Medici era. The church was worked on by the finest Italian painters of the 13th and 14th centuries, from Giunta Pisano to Cimabue, from Giotto to Spinello Aretino. Some works, including two paintings by Cimabue, were taken during the Napoleonic occupation and exhibited at the Louvre Museum."
Rider On Foot
"The church is currently closed for restoration."
Steve Turner
"Lovely and quite, very peaceful,"
Sean Crossan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The San Francesco Church is located in Pisa, Italy. It's accessible by public transport within the city. Consider walking if you are already in the historic center, or use local buses. Parking can be challenging in the historic areas, so public transport is often recommended.
Yes, the church is situated in the historic center of Pisa, making it convenient to visit alongside other famous landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Duomo.
Walking is ideal if you're exploring Pisa's historic center. Local buses are also a good option. If driving, research parking garages near the city center as street parking can be limited.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the San Francesco Church may be subject to restoration work. It's advisable to check the official website or local tourist information for the most current ticketing and access information.
Opening hours can vary, especially due to ongoing restoration. It's best to verify the current hours before your visit.
While many churches in Italy are free to enter, some may have a small fee or require tickets for specific areas or exhibitions, particularly if restoration is ongoing. Check for the latest details.
The cloister of San Francesco is a notable feature. Access might be included with church entry or be separate, depending on current restoration efforts. Inquire locally for the most up-to-date information.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can differ between churches. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, but it's always best to look for signage or ask a staff member.
The unique bell tower with its suspended arch is a prime photo opportunity. The stained glass windows also offer beautiful shots, especially when the light is right.
Drone photography is often restricted in urban areas and around historical sites due to privacy and safety regulations. Check local drone laws before flying.
🎫 🏛️ History & Art
While this query mentions San Francesco d'Assisi, the San Francesco Church in Pisa features works by artists like Giunta Pisano, Cimabue, Giotto, and Spinello Aretino.
This ancient and historic church in Pisa has been a significant religious site for centuries, featuring art from prominent medieval Italian painters and unique architectural elements.
Yes, during the Napoleonic occupation, some works, including two paintings by Cimabue, were taken and exhibited at the Louvre Museum in Paris.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Art Enthusiasts
Consider researching the specific artists and their contributions before your visit to fully appreciate the context of the artworks. The church's history, including the relocation of some pieces to the Louvre, adds another layer of fascination.
History Buffs
Learn about the church's role in Pisa's history and the impact of events like the Napoleonic occupation, which led to some artworks being moved to international museums. The ongoing restoration also speaks to the continuous effort to preserve this historical monument.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels
The church's construction faced financial challenges, leading to its completion during the Medici era. Despite these hurdles, it stands as a significant example of religious architecture, blending historical styles with unique structural elements. The exterior is noted for its simplicity, contrasting with the rich artistic content found within.
Artistic Heritage
Some of these invaluable works have a complex history. Notably, two paintings by Cimabue were relocated to the Louvre Museum in Paris during the Napoleonic occupation, highlighting the church's historical importance and the reach of its artistic collection. The ongoing restoration efforts aim to preserve these masterpieces for future generations.
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