Most travelers come to Tuscany dreaming of that iconic photo in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. But here’s a fun fact: Pisa doesn’t just have one leaning tower… it has three!
During my tours, I always joke that Pisa has a “stability problem” (which isn’t too far from reality). The result? A city full of charming, slightly tilted architectural wonders that make Pisa so unique. If you thought you knew everything about Pisa, let me surprise you.
San Michele degli Scalzi – Pisa’s Forgotten Leaning Tower
Let’s start with the most tilted of them all! With an impressive 5% slope, the bell tower of San Michele degli Scalzi is actually more inclined than the famous one in Piazza dei Miracoli.
Because it’s located further from the city center, few tourists ever make it here. But trust me—it’s worth the detour. The church, documented since 1025, has endured centuries of hardships, including heavy bombing during World War II and a devastating flood in 1949.
Despite it all, it still stands proudly… if a little sideways.
San Nicola – The Secret Leaning Bell Tower by the Arno
Now let’s move closer to the Arno River, in the Santa Maria area.
The Church of San Nicola deserves an entire article of its own (coming soon!) thanks to its rich history and art. But for now, let’s focus on its slightly leaning octagonal bell tower.
Dating back to the late 13th century and attributed to the renowned artist Nicola Pisano, this tower hides fascinating mathematical secrets that still intrigue historians today. Consider it Pisa’s “hidden gem” for architecture lovers.
The Famous Leaning Tower of Pisa – The Icon of Tuscany
And of course, last but not least: the Leaning Tower of Pisa, attached to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Piazza dei Miracoli.
Here’s a curiosity you may not know: until 2019, no one could say for sure who built it! After centuries of speculation, researcher Giulia Ammannati from the Scuola Normale in Pisa finally proved that the tower was the work of sculptor and bronzesmith Bonnano Pisano.
Mystery solved (well, almost—because Pisa still has plenty of secrets to reveal).
Visiting Pisa: More Than Just a Quick Stop
Most visitors only spend a couple of hours in Pisa, rushing for a photo before heading back to Florence. But Pisa is much more than a quick photo-op. It’s a city of history, legends, hidden corners, and yes… three leaning towers!
If you want to experience Pisa with a local guide who knows all the stories (and the best gelato spots), join me on a tour.
👉 Book your Pisa Tour here
