The Camposanto is on the northern border of the Piazza dei Miracoli, near the Duomo and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The arch-lined walls and inner courtyard of this cemetery have a peaceful atmosphere and make a great escape from the bustle of the square. Walk among Gothic cloisters and explore Roman sarcophagi, large frescoes, tombstones and the graves of some of Pisa’s prominent citizens.
The name Camposanto means “holy field”. It’s believed that the cemetery was built on soil from holy land where Jesus Christ was crucified. Constructed in 1464, the Camposanto is the youngest of the four structures that make up Pisa’s most famous square. The 84 Roman sarcophagi in the Camposanto date back to the third century.
Walk down the vast hallways to the northern gallery. In 1944, during the American bombing of Pisa in World War II, many of the frescoes in Camposanto were destroyed. The works in the northern gallery are some of the first that were restored after the war. Images tell the story of Anchorites, depictions of the Triumph of Death and scenes of the Last Judgment.
It is easy to spend a number of hours here. Come to relax in the stillness of the cemetery. Meander among the gravestones, tombs and memorials and notice how the sun creates ghost-like shadows on the paths. See engraved stones with the names of renowned Pisan’s, including Fibonacci, the famous mathematician, that are resting here.
Camposanto is open daily. There is an admission charge to enter. A discount is available with a multi-attraction ticket, which includes admission to other monuments in the Piazza dei Miracoli.
The cemetery is situated at the northern aspect of the piazza. You can get there on foot from the historic centre. There are also bus services to the piazza. For those driving, there is parking for a fee on the Via Pietrasantina, a 5-minute walk away.
