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Chiesa di San Michele degli Scalzi: A Leaning Gem

Discover Pisa's hidden gem: a Romanesque church with a leaning bell tower and a rich history.

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The Chiesa di San Michele degli Scalzi, located in Pisa, is a Romanesque church dating back to the 11th century. Known as the 'church of the barefoot monks,' it features a leaning bell tower that rivals the Leaning Tower of Pisa in inclination. The church's architecture showcases a blend of styles due to various restorations and modifications over the centuries.

A brief summary to Chiesa di San Michele degli Scalzi

  • Friday 8 am-12 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the church's architecture and interior details.
  • Take a walk along the Arno River to enjoy scenic views of the church and its leaning bell tower.
  • Explore the former monastery, now a cultural center and library, to learn more about the church's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Pisa Centrale train station, walk east along the Arno River. Continue on Lungarno Mediceo, then turn right onto Via San Michele degli Scalzi. The church will be on your left. The walk is approximately 2.5 kilometers and should take about 30-40 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Pisa Centrale, take bus line 14 or 22. Get off at the 'Chiesa S. Michele' stop, which is directly in front of the church. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1-€3.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Pisa Centrale to Chiesa di San Michele degli Scalzi will cost approximately €10-€15 and take about 10 minutes. Taxi stands are available outside the train station.

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Discover more about Chiesa di San Michele degli Scalzi

The Chiesa di San Michele degli Scalzi, situated on Via S. Michele degli Scalzi in Pisa, is a captivating example of Romanesque architecture with a unique history. The church is known as the 'church of the barefoot monks' because it was once associated with Benedictine monks who were called “Scalzi” because they did not wear shoes. Originally built in the 11th century, the church has undergone several restorations, resulting in a mix of architectural styles. The façade is divided into two sections: the lower part is constructed of marble with blind arches, while the upper part is made of brick with a central rose window. Inside, the basilica is divided into three naves with columns featuring Romanesque capitals. The semicircular apse is decorated with pottery basins dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. One of the church's most notable features is its leaning bell tower. Due to the unstable ground, the tower tilts at a greater angle than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This 'third leaning tower of Pisa' adds to the church's charm and makes it a unique landmark in the city. The bell tower has a square base, with the lower part made of marble and the upper part made of brick. Today, the Chiesa di San Michele degli Scalzi is a place of worship and a tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the church's interior, admire its architecture, and learn about its history. The adjacent monastery, once home to Benedictine monks, has been restored and now houses a cultural center and library.

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