The Pisa Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) has a grand history of important people and extravagant events that are evident in its large collection of artefacts. In the late 16th century, the Medici family built the palace as a holiday home outside of Florence. In 1989 it was converted into the National Museum. The artworks, clothing, furniture and armoury that were amassed in the 16th and 17th centuries by the Medici, Savoia and Lorena families are on display.
This enormous palace is an easy walk from Pisa’s historic city centre. While the façade of the building is unassuming, its size is overwhelming. As you approach the building, be sure to look for a small tower, called the Torre della Verga d’Oro, from which Galileo studied the stars.
Within the palace, discover a vast collection of artefacts that span the centuries. Each family brought their distinctive style and art collections to the palace. Frescoes, religious pieces and paintings adorn the rooms. Tapestries by Flemish artists from the 16th century are displayed next to collections of miniatures made from ivory. Discover clothing from the times of royals and see noblewoman Eleonora di Toledo’s collection of gowns.
Learn about Pisa’s military history with nearly 900 pieces of armoury from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Within the building is Pisa’s foremost institution for the preservation of archeological and artistic artefacts, the Soprintendenza dei Beni Culturali.
The Royal Palace is in the centre of the medieval city on the north bank of the River Arno. It is an easy walk from the centre of town and is accessible by three direct bus lines. While parking can be difficult, metered parking can be found across the river.
There is an admission fee to enter. The Pisa Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) is closed Sundays, Tuesdays and major public holidays.
