Torre De Cantone

Welcome to Pisa, Italy! As your tourist guide, I am excited to take you on a journey to explore the Torre de Cantone, also known as Gaetani or della Verga d'oro. Located between Via Santa Maria and Via San Nicola, this tower is connected by an arch above the street to the Palazzo delle Vedove and, through another arch, to the church of San Nicola. Built in the 12th century with a rectangular plan, it once rose for at least five floors and had a loggia on the ground floor. The name "de Cantone" was given to it starting from 1241 because it was built on the corner of the church of San Nicola. Previously, it was known as Domus dei Dodi, and inside there was an apotheca or grocery store. The name "della Verga d'Oro," on the other hand, was given to it starting from the 19th century due to another structure that no longer exists, which was located on the southeast corner of Via Santa Maria. One of the most interesting facts about this tower is that the scientist Galileo Galilei invited the Grand Duke of Tuscany to observe the first discoveries made with his invention, the telescope, from the top of this tower. This makes it a significant historical landmark in Pisa. As we explore the tower, you will notice the clear discharge arches at the base of the tower's architecture, two on the long side and one on the short side, with pointed arches and openings that are now blocked. Higher up, you will see a small portal, also bricked up, under which a narrow row of holes suggests that there was once an external wooden balcony. At the fifth floor, a still-visible battlement suggests an open space. The Torre de Cantone is a unique and fascinating piece of history that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. I hope you enjoy your visit to this beautiful tower and all that Pisa has to offer!

Location: Pisa

Address: Via Santa Maria, 3

Source: Wikimedia