San Michele degli Scalzi, Romanesque church in Pisa, Italy
San Michele degli Scalzi is a Romanesque church in Pisa featuring a marble facade with three doorways and five blind arches supported by columns with Corinthian capitals. Decorative circular patterns ornament the facade, creating a rhythmic and balanced composition typical of the period.
The original structure dates to 1025, but was completely rebuilt between 1152 and 1171 for the Pulsanese Benedictines. This reconstruction reflected a shift toward a more monumental architectural form, marking the growing importance of the monastic community in Pisa.
The name refers to the Pulsanese Benedictines who once inhabited this place and went barefoot as a spiritual practice. Visitors can observe how the medieval interior and its religious artworks reflect the way these monks lived and worshipped.
The church is open on most weekdays, with varying hours depending on the day of the week. It is best to visit in the morning when light conditions are optimal for viewing the details of the marble facade.
The church has a square bell tower that leans toward the river and counts as the third leaning tower of Pisa. This tilt developed over time due to ground subsidence affecting the building's foundation.
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