Pisa is one of the most touristy towns in Tuscany, if not in all of Italy. But most people are here only long enough to snap a silly photo “propping up” the Leaning Tower. And that’s a shame. There’s more to Pisa than its famous tower. Much more.
First off, that tower is just one part of an entire ensemble of buildings — the Field of Miracles — that symbolizes the stages of life: A baptistery, where people were welcomed into the world. A church, where they were married. A bell tower, where they were honored in ceremonies. A hospital, where they were healed. And a cemetery, where they were buried. Yes, you can climb to the top of the Tower. But for half that price, you can enter all of the other buildings at the Field of Miracles — each one more impressive than the last.
Better yet, bust out of the Field of Miracles entirely. Go for a walk. This is a thriving city that’s remarkably untouristy away from the Tower. It’s a big, bustling, Tuscan university town, with shopping streets, produce markets, and plenty of nightlife.
Come to think of it, this is probably good advice for any touristy town. See the big sight, sure. But then…take a walk.
Cameron, THANKS again for helping us ‘break out of the mold’ as travelers. We have been in Pisa twice–once with Rick Steves tours–and we never left the ‘Field of Miracles.’ I have been wondering what the rest of this historical city was like! Your photo essay helps.
Pisa sounds and looks so much more interesting than I expected. Thanks!
We walked away from the Tower of Pisa to the area inhabited by students. We found a cafe that offered reasonable prices and yummy food.