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Parish of St. Francis: A Pisan Sanctuary

Discover Pisa's Parish of St. Francis: A serene sanctuary of Gothic architecture, art, and history in the heart of Tuscany.

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The Parish of St. Francis, a historic Catholic church in Pisa, enchants visitors with its Gothic architecture and serene atmosphere. Originally built in the 13th century, it showcases significant artworks and a peaceful cloister, offering a spiritual and cultural retreat.

A brief summary to Parish of St Francis

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and to avoid crowds.
  • Explore the open cloister to view the frescoes depicting stories of the Saint, even while the church is under restoration.
  • Check the church's website or local listings for information on mass schedules and special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Pisa Centrale train station, the Parish of St. Francis is approximately a 20-25 minute walk. Exit the station and head north-east on Corso Italia, continuing straight. Turn left onto Via San Francesco; the church will be on your left in Piazza San Francesco. Alternatively, from the Leaning Tower of Pisa, walk south-east along Via Santa Maria, then turn right onto Via D'Azeglio. Continue onto Piazza Daniele Manin, then turn left onto Via San Francesco. The church will be on your right. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Pisa Centrale train station, several LAM (Linee ad Alta Mobilità) bus lines connect to the city center. Take the Red LAM line towards the Leaning Tower and get off at the 'Piazza San Francesco' stop. The Parish of St. Francis will be directly in front of you. A single 70-minute ticket costs €1.70 and can be purchased at newsagents, tobacconists, or via the AT Bus mobile app.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at Pisa Centrale train station and throughout the city. A taxi ride from the train station to the Parish of St. Francis typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €10-€15, as fares are metered.

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Discover more about Parish of St Francis

The Parish of St. Francis, located on Piazza S. Francesco in Pisa, is a captivating testament to the city's rich religious and artistic heritage. The church's origins trace back to 1233, with a more substantial structure erected from 1261 under the guidance of Giovanni di Simone, who also contributed to the Leaning Tower and the Camposanto. This expansion transformed it into one of the largest Franciscan monasteries in Italy. The church's architecture reflects a blend of styles, with a marble façade completed in 1603 and a bell tower notable for its daring design, supported by a flying arch. Inside, the church features large windows designed by Ignazio Pellegrini in 1757 and Gothic windows in the apse chapels. The interior once housed masterpieces by Giotto and Cimabue, now located in the Louvre Museum. However, significant artworks remain, including frescoes by Taddeo di Bartolo and Niccolò di Pietro Gerini. Throughout its history, the Parish of St. Francis has served various purposes, including a meeting place, a studium, and even a military barracks. Today, it stands as a national monument, inviting visitors to explore its serene interior, admire its artistic treasures, and experience a sense of tranquility in the heart of Pisa. Though currently under restoration, the cloister remains open, allowing visitors to admire the frescoes.

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