Archive for 'Tourist Attractions'

The Tempietto is a small commemorative martyrium (or tomb) built by Donato Bramante in the courtyard of San Pietro in Montorio in Rome. Dating to the 16th century, it is considered a masterpiece of High Renaissance Italian architecture. Harmonious, restrained and elegant, it is one of the most beautiful buildings of the period and is a must-see for architecture lovers and nerds. Just find a holiday rental in Rome and make time for this lesser-known, but exceptional, architectural gem.

In the last post in this series, we are discussing even more things to see and do in Pisa that don't involve posing next to, or scaling, a leaning tower. Just find a luxury villa in Pisa and begin exploring this stunning Tuscan city for yourself.

5. Knight's Square

The Knight's Square, or Piazza dei Cavalieri, is a town square in the city but is a beautiful landmark that holds particular historical importance. Located in the University Quarter, at the edge of the medieval city centre, just a short walk from the Piazza dei Miracoli, the square is thought to have Roman origins, became a political centre during the Middle Ages and is now a cultural and physical hub for the University of Pisa. The appearance of many of the buildings in the piazza that we see today dates to the 16th century and was created in a project headed by famous Renaissance architect Giorgio Vasari.

As the Leaning Tower of Pisa is so inordinately and overpoweringly famous, the other sights and attractions of Pisa often don't even get a look in. However, if you have found a luxury villa in Pisa and are visiting that beautiful city, you might wonder what else is there to do in Pisa? Luckily, we have compiled a list of some of the best things to see and do in Pisa that aren't towers with poor foundations.

3. Palazzo Blu

The Palazzo Blu is one of the most important art museums in the city and is, appropriately, located in a wonderfully restored 14th-century dusty-blue palace. Home to Foundation Pisa's art collection (on the 2nd floor of the building) that is made up of predominantly Pisan works from the 14th to the 20th centuries it also hosts various temporary exhibitions on the ground floor throughout the year.

If you have found a luxury villa in Pisa, a visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa is, for many, a must, of course. However, there is lots more to see and do in this beautiful and historic Tuscan city.

We have compiled a list of other key attractions and things to see and do in Pisa so you don't miss out on the rest of this wonderful city, just because of the long shadow cast by the Tower.

1. Tuttomondo

While Italy might be more famous for her ancient, medieval and Renaissance artworks, the lineage of the production of great works of art in Italy continues right up to the present day. Pisa may be known for its medieval architecture but it is also home to Keith Haring's “Tuttomondo” mural, his last public work.

The Civic Aquarium of Milan (Acquario Civico di Milano) is Milan's charming – and rather unique – aquarium. The third oldest aquarium in Europe, it was built in 1905 for the Milan World Fair and is the only building to survive from the event to this day.

Located at the edge of Sempione Park, Milan's largest public park, it is housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau period building that features elaborate sculptural details, friezes and hand-painted tiles.

The facade of the aquarium is further enhanced by a statue of Neptune, the Roman god of water and the sea, created by sculptor Oreste Labò. Small but beautiful and certainly one of the most unusual and special museums that we have ever seen, it is a must-visit for those who have found a vacation rental in Milan and are planning a trip to the city.