Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa

The Piazza dei Miracoli, also known as the Square of Miracles, is an architectural marvel and a testament to medieval art in the heart of Pisa, Italy. This walled area is home to four of the world's most remarkable religious buildings: the Pisa Cathedral, the Pisa Baptistry, the monumental cemetery Camposanto, and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Piazza dei Miracoli is celebrated for its extraordinary monuments, which exhibit the pinnacle of Pisan Romanesque architecture. The Cathedral, with its elaborate façade of grey marble and white stone, was built in 1064 and set the precedent for the distinctive Pisan style that spread throughout Italy. The Baptistry, famous for its acoustics, is the largest in Italy, and the Camposanto is known for its beautiful frescoes and sacred soil from Golgotha.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, the piazza's crowning glory, was originally intended as the cathedral's bell tower. Construction began in 1173 but was plagued by foundational issues that caused the tower to tilt. The unintended tilt has made the Leaning Tower one of the most recognizable structures in the world. After extensive stabilization efforts, visitors can once again ascend the tower's spiraling staircase for a stunning view of the square and the city beyond.

The Piazza dei Miracoli offers a glimpse into the power and wealth of the Republic of Pisa during the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore the square's lush green lawns and marvel at the architectural achievements, or enjoy the site's numerous museums and exhibitions that delve into the history and preservation of these timeless structures.