Monday, July 14, 2008

Pisa, Italy


Piazza dei Miracoli

The monuments which transform a common square into the "Piazza dei Miracoli" are: the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Bell or Leaning Tower and the Monumental Churchyard. A combination of works of architecture and sculpture which rise stately and austere, but at the same time seem harmoniously snuggled within a small square. It is in this natural simplicity that the white marble shines and the greatness of the works seem a creation of nature itself. Wonderfully blended, so much so, that even if passing hastily by, one can't help but stop and feel a strong sense of admiration and emotion for the wonderfully made masterpieces.

~Leaning Tower Of Pisa~

Is the monument that, among the others of the "Piazza dei Miracoli",stirs the imagination and intrigues just about everybody who visits it. The construction of this imposing mass was started in the year 1174 by Bonanno Pisano. When the tower had reached its third story the works ceased because it had started sinking into the ground. The tower remained thus for 90 years. It was completed by Giovanni di Simone who crowned the tower with the belfry at half of 14th century.The top of the Leaning Tower can be reached by mounting the 294 steps which rise in the form of a spiral on the inner side of the tower walls. This very famous work is of Romanesque style. Of course we couldn't leave without the typical cheesy tourist picture of us holding up the leaning tower...




~ The Baptistery~
On entering the baptistery, the immensity of the building is even more convincing than from outside. Here, in fact you immediately sense it's unbelievable size and workmanship. In fact, under the huge vault of the dome and the numerous rose windows distributed all around make you feel as if you're apart of something truly inspirational. In the middle of the basin there is a statue of Italo Griselliand and the pulpit was the great work of Nicola Pisano in the year of 1260 .

~The Cathedral~
This grandiose masterpiece of Romanesque Style was started in the year 1063 by the great architect Buschetto. It is therefore, the first building in the spot that became later the "Piazza dei Miracoli". It was only possible to be built because of the enormous wealth amassed by the powerful Sea Republic particularly after a successful excursion on Palermo. The Cathedral was consecrated in the year 1118, by Pope Gelasio II even though it still had not been completed.

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