Pisa

Pisa, capital city of the province of the same name in the Tuscany region, spreads along a curve of the Arno River between Mount Pisano and the sea; the city’s architectural and artistic beauties have earned the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of miracles) to be declared World Heritage Site protected by the UNESCO. The economy of Pisa is mainly based on international tourism; commercial and industrial activities, however, are not to be underestimated. Its old port was of great relevance during Roman times; Pisa’s fleet was very strong until defeated after hard battles against hostile Genoa in 1284. The comune (municipality) started to flourish again later, during the ruling of the Medici and Lorena families. Pisa boasts monuments that are among the most famous in the world: the architectural magnificence of Piazza del Duomo (cathedral’s square), better known as Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of miracles), offering visitors the marvellous Cathedral, made completely in marble, and the exceptional 55-metre Torre Pendente (Leaning Tower), particularly appreciated by its singular inclination to the right. Another two towers showing the same features are deserving of admiration: the bellfries of the Church of St. Nicolas and the Church of San Michele degli Scalzi (Saint Michael of the barefooted), the latter case even the church itself seems to be leaning. Pisa’s splendid inns and typical cuisine guarantee art and culture lovers unforgettable moments, overwhelmed by Giovanni Pisano masterworks and by the complete collections in museums such as Museo delle Sinopie (exhibiting sinopias), Museo Nazionale di San Matteo and Museo del Camposanto Vecchio. Booking a Hotel in Pisa and other Italian cities. Among the most successful folk festivals enjoyed by tourists visiting the city are the Patronal Festival (or “Luminara”, a wax-candle celebration in honour of the patron saint) , the Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare (a boat race), the Gioco del Ponte (“battle of the bridge”) and the Palio di San Ranieri (a regatta with special boats).