Church of San Nicola - an old church with a bell tower on a sunny day
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Church of San Nicola

4.5
·234 reviews·Pisa, Italy

Romanesque church in Pisa featuring a unique, subtly inclined octagonal bell tower and a vibrant, welcoming community.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Church of San Nicola - an old church with a bell tower on a sunny day

Church of San Nicola

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Romanesque church in Pisa featuring a unique, subtly inclined octagonal bell tower and a vibrant, welcoming community.

4.5
(234 reviews)

"A must-see in Pisa, an old church with plenty of arts inside, but with an alive community, ready to host you. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🔔 Bell Tower's Tilt

Notice the subtle, yet visible, inclination of the octagonal bell tower. :camerawithflash:

🙏 Check Mass Times

Interior access often depends on mass schedules. Plan accordingly! :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Inclined Bell Tower

Inclined Bell Tower

Marvel at the 12th-century octagonal bell tower's gentle, visible tilt towards the Arno River.

Reddit
Geometric Mosaics

Geometric Mosaics

Admire the facade's intricate geometric mosaics, a hallmark of Romanesque architecture.

Reddit
Art-Filled Interior

Art-Filled Interior

Discover a wealth of art within the church, reflecting centuries of history and devotion.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the exterior is always accessible, check mass schedules for interior access. Weekday mornings might offer a quieter experience than weekend services. Reddit

Bell Tower's Lean

The octagonal bell tower is famously inclined, a subtle but visible tilt towards the Arno River. It's a unique architectural feature worth noting. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday mornings
Why
Experience a lively mass
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The choir of @selwyn1882 rehearsing “Lux aurumque” by @ericwhitacre in the beautiful church of San Nicola in Scheggino. @comunescheggino #choirsofinstagram #choirtour #selwynchoir @cambridgeuniversity #sopranosoloist
sarahelizabetharwen
64 likes • 1.3K views

🔔 Bell Tower's Tilt

Notice the subtle, yet visible, inclination of the octagonal bell tower. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🙏 Check Mass Times

Interior access often depends on mass schedules. Plan accordingly! Reddit :ticket:

Cathedral of San Nicola. . . . . . . . #church #bari #italy #architecture #interiors #religion #cathedral #god #picoftheday #pic #photooftheday #photographer #travel #prayer
ancelphotoagency
12 likes • 213 views
📍Church of San Nicola, Praga 🇨🇿
morart95
1.3K likes • 18.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Exterior

Even if closed, the facade and bell tower are impressive sights. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🤝 Friendly Community

Visitors note the welcoming and approachable nature of the church community. Reddit :heart:

Armenian heritage in Rome 🇮🇹🇦🇲 Right in the center of Rome, the Armenian Church of San Nicola da Tolentino and the Armenian Catholic Seminary are here to remind the links between the Italian capital and the Armenian people. #armenianhistory #armenianculture #armenianchurch #armeniandiaspora #армянемира #армянскаяцерковь ##հայկական #հայերեն #եկեղեցի
littlearmenias
6.5K likes • 86K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🔔 Bell Tower's Tilt

Notice the subtle, yet visible, inclination of the octagonal bell tower. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🙏 Check Mass Times

Interior access often depends on mass schedules. Plan accordingly! Reddit :ticket:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Exterior

Even if closed, the facade and bell tower are impressive sights. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🤝 Friendly Community

Visitors note the welcoming and approachable nature of the church community. Reddit :heart:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(234 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Church of San Nicola is appreciated for its unique, subtly inclined bell tower and its role as an active, welcoming community hub. While the interior holds artistic merit, access can be limited by mass schedules. Visitors highlight the friendly congregation and the historical charm of the Romanesque architecture.

"Didn't visit the church itself, just stop by to see the inclination of the octagonal bell tower. Bell tower (from 12th century) is one of the three bell towers that has an inclination, after famous Pisa tower and another tower of the church outside the city - Chiesa San Michele degli Scalzi. The tower was once separated from the building and its base is under the street level now. Inclination is very mild but still visible, tilting is towards the street and river Arno."

Tomi Valny

"Really nice church, there was a mass at 9 on Sunday morning."

Mardzerin Majka

"All the people of the community church are truely approachable and really friendly even to extracommunitary...the Saturday night mass...i love it so much all the people are participating even the small children."

Ursula Ancheta

What People Like

Inclined bell tower
Friendly community
Active worship

What People Dislike

Limited interior access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Church of San Nicola is located in Pisa, Italy. It's accessible by walking from the city center, as Pisa is a very walkable city. If arriving by train at Pisa Centrale, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride. Reddit

Yes, the church is situated near the Arno River and not too far from other key sites like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, making it easy to incorporate into a day trip. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, entry to the church itself is free, but it's important to check mass schedules as access might be limited during services. The exterior is always visible. Reddit

Specific opening hours can vary, as the church is an active place of worship. It's best to check local listings or inquire about mass times for potential visiting windows. Reddit

The bell tower is a separate structure and typically not open for public climbing. Its main draw is its unique inclination. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Church of San Nicola boasts an 11th-century octagonal bell tower that has a noticeable, mild inclination, tilting towards the Arno River. It's one of Pisa's lesser-known architectural curiosities. Reddit

Inside, you can find various artworks and historical elements reflecting its long history. Visitors have described it as having 'plenty of arts inside.' Reddit

Yes, it is an active church with regular masses, including a Saturday night mass that is noted for its community participation. Reddit

The church is a Romanesque structure, characterized by its facade with geometric mosaics and an interior that has been described as having a carved and gilded ceiling with painted panels from the 17th century. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The inclined bell tower is a prime subject for photos, especially capturing its tilt against the sky. The facade with its mosaics also makes for great shots. Reddit

Photography rules inside churches can vary. It's always best to be respectful and check for any posted signs or ask a church official before taking pictures. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

📸 Photographers & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those with a keen eye for architecture and unique angles, the inclined bell tower of San Nicola is a must-capture subject. Its subtle lean offers a different photographic challenge and reward compared to the main Leaning Tower. The geometric mosaics on the facade also provide excellent detail shots. Reddit

While the interior holds artistic treasures, remember to be respectful of ongoing services. Capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stone and mosaic work can yield stunning results. Reddit

🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Community Visitors

If you're looking for a more authentic, community-focused spiritual experience, the Church of San Nicola is highly recommended. Visitors consistently mention the warmth and approachability of the congregation, making it a welcoming place for all. Reddit

Attending a mass, especially the Saturday night service, offers a chance to witness a truly engaged community. It's an opportunity to feel the living pulse of faith in Pisa, beyond the typical tourist circuit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Leaning Bell Tower

The Church of San Nicola in Pisa is perhaps most recognized for its octagonal bell tower, which, like its more famous cousin, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, exhibits a distinct inclination. Dating back to the 11th century, this tower's lean is a result of the unstable subsoil common in the area. While not as dramatic as the Leaning Tower, its tilt towards the Arno River is clearly visible and makes for a unique photographic subject. Reddit

Unlike the main tower, the bell tower of San Nicola was once a separate structure. Its base now lies beneath the current street level, adding to its historical intrigue. Visitors often stop by just to observe this architectural anomaly, appreciating its subtle charm and historical context. Reddit

The gentle lean of the bell tower is a testament to Pisa's unique geological challenges and the ingenuity of its medieval builders. It's a fascinating detail that adds character to the church's overall presence. Reddit

A Living Community and Artistic Heritage

Beyond its architectural curiosities, the Church of San Nicola is a vibrant center of community life. Visitors have consistently praised the approachable and friendly nature of the church community, noting their welcoming attitude even towards those outside the immediate congregation. The Saturday night mass, in particular, is highlighted for its high level of participation, including children, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Reddit

The interior of the church is also a repository of art and history. While specific details might require an in-person visit, descriptions mention a wealth of art, and one reel notes a carved and gilded ceiling with painted panels from the 17th century, showcasing artistic traditions. Instagram This blend of active spiritual life and artistic heritage makes San Nicola more than just a historical monument; it's a place with a soul. Reddit

Experiencing the church during a service offers a deeper connection to its living heritage, providing peace and a sense of belonging. Reddit

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