Santa Caterina

Santa Caterina is a Gothic church in Pisa with a gabled roof, a single nave, and a transept containing four cross-vaulted chapels. The outer walls display distinctive two-tone marble stripes, and a terracotta bell tower sits beside the facade.

The Dominican order began building this church in 1222 and completed the main structure by the mid-13th century. The facade was finished later in the 14th century, reflecting different construction phases.

Inside the church you can see religious artworks, including an altarpiece by Lippo Memmi and Francesco Traini that depicts sacred scenes. The chapels contain paintings and sculptures created by local artists over the centuries.

The church is open to visitors and allows you to view the Gothic arches, marble details, and bell tower from different angles. It is best to visit early in the day to see the finest architectural details in good light.

The columns inside feature carved capitals depicting human heads, an unusual choice for a church interior. Above the central rose window, busts of saints in high relief create a distinctive crown.

Location: Pisa

Inception: 1250

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

GPS coordinates: 43.72113,10.40465

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:10