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Situated on the banks of the Arno, the church of Santa Maria della Spina is a veritable jewel in the town's history. city of Pisa. Dating from the 13th century, its exceptional beauty embodies with finesse and mastery the style gouscan stylegiving the place a unique atmosphere. In this article, you'll learn more about its history, ticket prices and interesting features.

History of Santa Maria della Spina church

Built in 1230-1234, this small gothique church owes its name to a relic kept inside: a thorn presumed to be from Christ's crown. It was brought back from Holy Land by Marino di Niccolò degli Alberti Mainardi Cassigoli in 1332.

It wasn't until 1343 that the original building was extended to better protect this priceless treasure. Thanks to the hard work of local craftsmen, the work lasted until 1392, when the current result was completed.

Subsequently, the church was threatened by the flooding of the Arno and had to be dismantled piece by piece, only to be rebuilt higher up according to the original plans. This operation, carried out between 1871 and 1884, saved the building from deterioration caused by damp.

The different stages of construction

  • 1230-1234: construction of the original church
  • 1332: acquisition of the Holy Thorn and start of transformations
  • 1392: completion of the gothique masterpiece
  • 1871-1884: dismantling, reassembling and restoration of the church

Ticket price to visit the church of Santa Maria della Spina

There is a charge for visiting this church, and prices vary according to a number of criteria. Here's an overview of prices:

  1. Full price: €6
  2. Reduced rate for groups (minimum 10 people): €5 per person
  3. Special rate for schools: €4 per pupil
  4. Free for children under 8 accompanied by an adult

Combined passes and tickets available

If you'd like to take advantage of discounts or special offers, opt for a tourist pass or a combined ticket that also allows you to visit other monuments in Pisa. Ask your local tourist office about the various options and prices.

What's inside Santa Maria della Spina?

During your visit, you'll marvel at the richness of its exterior architecture and the finesse of the sculptures adorning its facades. But that's not all: the interior of this church also regorge exceptional works of art and precious details.

Chapels and their treasures

The Santa Maria della Spina church has three chapels:

  • The Main Chapel, featuring the high altar and a copy of the gilded tabernacle containing the relic of the Holy Thorn (the original is kept in the San Matteo Museum).
  • La Chapelle de la Madone, where you can admire a magnificent painting of the Madonna and Child attributed to Nino Pisano (14th century).
  • The Crucifix Chapel, featuring a polychrome wooden crucifix by Pietro di Giovanni d'Ambrogio (15th century).

Sculptures and other works of art

In addition to these remarkable features, the church of Santa Maria della Spina is decorated with numerous gothic sculptures, some of which are absolute masterpieces of Pisan art:

  • The statue of the Madonna and Child, masterpiece by Giovanni Pisano (1301).
  • The Coronation of the Virgin, by Andrea and Nino Pisano (circa 1340).
  • Statues of saints and bas-reliefs illustrating biblical scenes, attributed to various local artists.

Finally, the stained glass windows offer a dazzling play of light and color, adding to the unique charm of the Santa Maria della Spina church.

Practical information to prepare your visit to the church of Santa Maria della Spina

To make the most of your visit to this gothical Pisan gem, here is some useful information:

  1. The church is open daily from 10am to 7pm. Last entrance 30 minutes before closing time.
  2. Average length of visit: around 45 minutes.
  3. Address: Piazza della Becheraggio, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
  4. Access by public transport: Bus - "Lungarno" stop (Rossa line).

A visit to theSanta Maria della Spina church is a must-see during your stay in Pisa. Combining the spiritual intensity of the place with the artistic exuberance typical of the gothique style, it will allow you to discover a real treasure of this Tuscan city.

Discover the treasures of Pisa Among the jewels of the city, theSanta Maria della Spina church is distinguished by its unique gothique beauty. As you continue your exploration, don't miss the Palazzo della Carovanaa true masterpiece in the heart of Pisa. For art lovers, the Palazzo Blu offers an immersion into exceptional collections. A detour to the Campo Santo Museum also stands out for its artistic and historical heritage. For relaxation, take advantage of the beaches near Pisa before visiting the Baptistery to admire its magnificent sculptures. La Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Cathedral will surprise you with its grandiose architecture, before ending on a high note with the famous Tower of Pisa. And for the more curious, learn how to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa for free.

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