Santo Sepolcro, Lucca Travel Guide

4.5 (134)

Discover Pisa's hidden gem: a mysterious octagonal church with Crusader roots and unique architectural symbolism, near the Arno River.

Home
Travel Guides
Italy
Lucca
Santo Sepolcro

The Santo Sepolcro, or Church of the Holy Sepulchre, is a mysterious and unique octagonal church in Pisa, constructed in the 12th century. Inspired by the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and possibly the Dome of the Rock, it stands as a testament to Pisa's rich history and architectural prowess.

A brief summary to Santo Sepolcro

Piazza Santo Sepolcro, Pisa, Province of Pisa, 56125, IT
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Santo Sepolcro.

Visit in the late afternoon, as the church is typically open from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Leaning Tower, Pisa Cathedral, and Museo Nazionale di San Matteo.
Dress modestly when visiting, covering shoulders and knees.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Museum of Villa Mansi

Museo Nazionale di Villa Guinigi

Fontana della Pupporona

Piazza San Michele

Domus Romana Lucca

Explore Santo Sepolcro on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Santo Sepolcro, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Leaning Tower of Pisa, walk southeast along Via Santa Maria. Continue onto Via Delle Trombe, then turn right onto Via San Frediano. Turn left onto Piazza Santo Sepolcro. The church will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.
Public Transport

From Pisa Centrale Station, take a bus towards the city center. Several bus lines connect the station to the central area. Get off at a stop near the Arno River, such as Ponte di Mezzo. From there, walk along the riverfront towards Piazza Santo Sepolcro. A single bus ticket costs around €1-€3.
Taxi

From Pisa Airport, take a taxi to Piazza Santo Sepolcro. The ride typically takes around 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is around €12. Taxi stands are located outside the airport terminal.

Discover more about Santo Sepolcro

The Santo Sepolcro, or Church of the Holy Sepulchre, is one of Pisa's most distinctive and enigmatic churches. Built in the 12th century, its octagonal design sets it apart from other religious structures in the city. The church's design is attributed to Diotisalvi, who also designed the Baptistery of Pisa. Constructed by the Hospitaller Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, the Santo Sepolcro's architecture is inspired by the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, reflecting the Pisan's participation in the First Crusade. Some believe it also bears resemblance to the Dome of the Rock. The church's octagonal shape symbolizes rebirth and entry into the Christian community. Originally, a portico surrounded the building until the 16th century.Inside, the church features a geometric design with influences centered around the number eight, seen in its dome and equidistant pillars. Among the notable features are the tomb of Maria Mancini, a favorite of Louis XIV, and a well with a bucket said to have been used by Santa Ubaldesca to turn water into wine. The unfinished bell tower, in Pisane-Romanesque style, adds to the church's unique character. Today, the Santo Sepolcro stands as a captivating blend of architectural styles and historical significance, offering visitors a glimpse into Pisa's medieval past.