Background

ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO: A Glimpse into Pisa's Maritime Past

Explore Pisa's maritime history at the ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO, preserving the legacy of the Sacred Military Order.

The ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO, located in Pisa's Piazza dei Cavalieri, is a historical institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Sacred Military Order of Saint Stephen Pope and Martyr. Founded by Cosimo I de' Medici in 1562, the Order played a crucial role in defending the Mediterranean from piracy and bolstering the power of the Tuscan state. Today, the institution promotes the Order's history and maritime traditions of Italy.

A brief summary to ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO

  • Monday 9 am-12 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-12 pm
  • Friday 9 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Visit Piazza dei Cavalieri, where the institution is located, to admire the architecture and historical significance of the square.
  • Check the opening hours of the ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO, as they may vary.
  • Explore the surrounding area, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli, which are within walking distance.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO is located in Piazza dei Cavalieri, a central square in Pisa. From the Leaning Tower of Pisa, walk along Via Capponi and Via Martini, which will take you to the piazza in about 5 minutes. From Pisa Centrale train station, it is approximately a 30-minute walk through the city center.

  • Public Transport

    From Pisa Centrale train station, take a bus to one of the bus stops near Piazza dei Cavalieri, such as Cuoco (2-minute walk), I Passi (5-minute walk), or Largo Duca D'Aosta (10-minute walk). Bus lines that serve the area include 1+, 4, 21, and 2. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50 [https://www.at-bus.it/en/tickets-and-fares].

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from Pisa Centrale train station to Piazza dei Cavalieri typically takes around 5 minutes and costs approximately €8-12.

Unlock the Best of ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO

The ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO stands as a testament to Pisa's rich maritime history and the influence of the Medici family. Established in 1562 by Cosimo I de' Medici, the Sacred Military Order of Saint Stephen Pope and Martyr was created to protect the Mediterranean from Barbary pirates and enhance the political standing of Tuscany. The Order's headquarters were established in Piazza dei Cavalieri, which was redesigned by Giorgio Vasari. The ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO, as it exists today, is dedicated to preserving the memory and traditions of the Order, as well as the maritime traditions of Italy. It also provides assistance to the children of members of the Navy and Merchant Marine through scholarships. The institution promotes historical research and publications that highlight the glories and traditions of the Italian navy. The building itself, the Palazzo del Consiglio dei 12, has a rich history, having served as the Palazzo dell'Archivio e della Cancelleria in the Middle Ages and later as the Palazzo dei Priori. TheISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO adopted a red, eight-pointed cross on a white field, surmounted by the acronym “S.R.D.S.” (Sacra Religione di S. Stefano) and the motto “NOMINI MEO ADSCRIBATUR VICTORIA”.

Popular Experiences near ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO

Popular Hotels near ISTITUZIONE DEI CAVALIERI DI SANTO STEFANO

Select Currency