This port city in northwestern Tuscany Region on the mouth of the Arno River was once a maritime power in the 11th century until its defeat by Genoa in 1284. Eventually, Pisa was absorbed by Medici led Florence.
Pisa is most famous for its leaning tower, which was construction from 1173 to 1372. Its most prominent native, Galileo, performed his famous ball dropping experiment here. Between 1990 and 2001, the tower was closed to the public as experts tried to stabilize its lean. When we visited, access to the top of the tower is limited to 45 persons per 20-minute time slot.
The entire complex on the Cathedral Square (Piazza dei Miracoli, or Field of Miracles) consists of the cathedral, the baptistery and its star attraction the bell tower, all in Romanesque style.