Piazza dei Cavalieri travel guide

Piazza dei Cavalieri, also known as Knights' Square, is a historical gem nestled in the heart of Pisa. Renowned for its architectural splendor, the square has its origins dating back to the Roman era, when it served as Pisa's political center. During the Middle Ages, it became the heart of the city’s civil life, known then as Piazza delle Sette Vie.

In the 16th century, it underwent a significant transformation under the directive of Cosimo I de' Medici, who commissioned renowned architect Giorgio Vasari to redesign it. This revamp was part of a larger effort to establish the Order of the Knights of St. Stephen, a military order founded by Cosimo to defend the Mediterranean from Ottoman piracy.

The square is home to several notable buildings, including the Palazzo della Carovana, now housing the prestigious Scuola Normale Superiore, and the Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri, which boasts a façade designed by Vasari.

Today, Piazza dei Cavalieri is a testament to Pisa's rich historical tapestry, reflecting the city's evolution from Roman times through the Renaissance. Its blend of historical significance and architectural beauty makes it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Piazza dei Cavalieri stands out due to its remarkable blend of architectural grandeur and historical significance. The square is dominated by the Palazzo della Carovana, designed by Giorgio Vasari, renowned for its elaborate facade adorned with intricate sgraffito decorations and the impressive staircase leading to the entrance. Another distinctive feature is the Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri, easily recognized by its elegant Mannerist facade and the collection of naval banners inside that commemorate the Knights of St. Stephen's victories over the Ottomans.

The square also features the grand statue of Cosimo I de' Medici, designed by the sculptor Pietro Francavilla, which serves as a focal point, emphasizing the Medici influence on the area. Additionally, the impressive Palazzo dell'Orologio, incorporating the remains of two medieval towers, adds a unique historical layer with its intriguing clock tower and the legendary tale of Count Ugolino della Gherardesca. The harmonious layout and artistic coherence of these structures make Piazza dei Cavalieri a captivating destination for visitors.

Located in the dynamic Pisa, the popular Piazza dei Cavalieri is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Pisa or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Pisa is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Pisa offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Pisa and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza del Duomo, Cattedrale di Pisa, Giardino Scotto, and Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Pisa has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Pisa, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Piazza dei Cavalieri is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Pisa, Italy. If you're flying in, Florence Airport is approximately 40.5 miles (65.2 km) away from Pisa. From there, you can easily reach Piazza dei Cavalieri by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Pisa, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Piazza dei Cavalieri, which is located 0.3 miles (0.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Piazza dei Cavalieri, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is P. Za dei Cavalieri, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Piazza dei Cavalieri!

The best time to explore Piazza dei Cavalieri in Pisa, Italy, is during the spring and early summer months, specifically from April to June. During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm, averaging between 60-75°F (15-24°C), which makes for comfortable sightseeing without the intense heat of the peak summer months. Additionally, the piazza is less crowded compared to the high tourist season in July and August, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

Another ideal time to visit is in early autumn, from September to October. The weather remains mild and the summer crowds have thinned out, offering another window of opportunity to enjoy the piazza's historical architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

If you aim to experience local culture, consider planning your visit around June 17th, when Pisa celebrates the Luminara of San Ranieri. During this festival, the city is illuminated with thousands of candles, providing a magical backdrop to the square.

To maximize your experience, try visiting Piazza dei Cavalieri early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These times generally see fewer tourists, allowing for unobstructed views and peaceful moments to soak in the historical ambiance.

To truly enjoy your visit to Piazza dei Cavalieri, joining a tour that features this popular square in Pisa is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Piazza dei Cavalieri draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Piazza dei Cavalieri starting at just 22 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Piazza dei Cavalieri and Italy's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Florence Airport and the city of Pisa, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Italy cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Pisa and beyond.

Conveniently explore Piazza dei Cavalieri and plenty more captivating attractions in Pisa by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Piazza dei Cavalieri and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Pisa has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Piazza dei Cavalieri below.

Aside from Piazza dei Cavalieri, Pisa is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Pisa, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza del Duomo, and Cattedrale di Pisa.

Leaning Tower of Pisa is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Pisa, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 110,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Leaning Tower of Pisa is Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Pisa is Piazza del Duomo. Like Leaning Tower of Pisa, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 100,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy.

Cattedrale di Pisa is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Pisa. This church and top attraction in Pisa has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,300 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Pisa below.