Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri
A stunning Mannerist church in Pisa, home to the Order of Knights of Santo Stefano, featuring art by Vasari & Bronzino.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Mannerist church in Pisa, home to the Order of Knights of Santo Stefano, featuring art by Vasari & Bronzino.
"Amazed that this chiesa has been opened! In every destination, in every corner, there is something to surprise me."
Combine with Piazza dei Cavalieri
Explore the entire Piazza dei Cavalieri, including the Palazzo della Carovana, for a complete historical experience.
Look for the Medici Crest
Spot the Medici coat of arms with its six spheres prominently displayed on the facade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mannerist Facade
Exterior
Admire the elegant white marble facade, a prime example of Mannerist style, featuring the Medici coat of arms.
Artistic Masterpieces Inside
Interior
Discover celebrated paintings by Vasari and Bronzino, and a magnificent altar by Foggini.
Trophies of the Knights
Interior
See fragments of galleys and flags captured by the Knights in battles against the Turks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri
Understanding the Order of Santo Stefano
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Piazza dei Cavalieri
Explore the entire Piazza dei Cavalieri, including the Palazzo della Carovana, for a complete historical experience.
Look for the Medici Crest
Spot the Medici coat of arms with its six spheres prominently displayed on the facade.
Appreciate the Bell Tower
Don't miss the bell tower, also designed by Vasari, adding to the church's architectural grandeur.
Consider Evening Events
Check for special events or concerts held in the piazza, offering a unique evening experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Piazza dei Cavalieri
Explore the entire Piazza dei Cavalieri, including the Palazzo della Carovana, for a complete historical experience.
Look for the Medici Crest
Spot the Medici coat of arms with its six spheres prominently displayed on the facade.
Appreciate the Bell Tower
Don't miss the bell tower, also designed by Vasari, adding to the church's architectural grandeur.
Consider Evening Events
Check for special events or concerts held in the piazza, offering a unique evening experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the beautiful white marble facade and the rich artistic treasures within Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri. Many are surprised by the historical significance and the preserved battle trophies, finding it a rewarding stop beyond Pisa's main attractions. Some note that it's often overlooked, making it a peaceful discovery.
"It's a beautiful façade of white marble. At the top centre you can see the Medici coat of arms, with its enigmatic six spheres."
Leandro Romero
"It was built as a convent of the Order of the Knights of S. Stefano, founded by Grand Duke Cosimo I in 1562. The church, after the demolition of the pre-existing S. Sebastiano alle Fabbriche Maggiori, attested since 1074, was erected starting from 1565 based on a design by Vasari and consecrated in 1569. The two lateral bodies were built between 1683 and 1688 by the architect Silvani. The bell tower was built between 1570 and 1572, again based on a design by Vasari. Inside are preserved fragments of galleys, flags and trophies taken by the Knights in the battles against the Turks. The main altar, in polychrome marble, porphyry and gilded bronze, the work of the sculptor Foggini (1702-1709), preserves the relics of the saint, which arrived in Pisa in 1682. The two organs by D'Onofrio and Azzolino della Chiaia are valuable. In the choir there is a copy of the silvered bronze reliquary bust of S. Lussorio, a work by Donatello. The ceiling, in gilded and carved wood dating back to 1603, houses panels by various authors including Allori, Cigoli and Empoli."
Rider On Foot
"I'm amazed that this chiesa has been opened!"
Argie Karl Mayrong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri is located in Piazza dei Cavalieri, a short walk from the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. You can easily reach it on foot from most central Pisa locations. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk from Pisa Centrale station.
Yes, the piazza is well-served by local buses that stop nearby. Walking is also a great option to soak in the city's atmosphere.
Piazza dei Cavalieri is best explored on foot. Take your time to admire the architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the Palazzo della Carovana and the Palazzo dell'Orologio, before entering the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri is generally free, though donations are appreciated. It's always a good idea to check for any special exhibition fees or if access is restricted during events.
Opening hours can vary, especially for churches. It's recommended to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Some sources indicate it's open during specific times for visitors.
Typically, there is no admission fee for the church itself, allowing visitors to admire its art and architecture freely.
Churches are often open on Sundays, but hours might be adjusted due to religious services. Confirming the schedule in advance is advisable.
While not always advertised, local tourist offices or private tour operators might offer guided tours that include Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri as part of a broader Pisa historical tour. Inquire locally for options.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Order was a military and religious group founded in 1562 by Grand Duke Cosimo I to defend against Turkish pirates and protect maritime trade. The church served as their convent and a symbol of their power.
Inside, you'll find significant works by Mannerist painters like Vasari and Bronzino, a grand altar by Foggini, and valuable organs. The ceiling features panels by various artists.
Yes, the church houses trophies from battles against the Turks, including fragments of galleys and flags, offering a glimpse into the Knights' military history.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, but it's best to look for signage or ask church staff if unsure.
A visit to Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in art and history. It's often combined with exploring Piazza dei Cavalieri.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Piazza dei Cavalieri and the adjacent streets offer numerous dining options, from casual trattorias to more formal restaurants serving Tuscan cuisine.
Pisa offers traditional Tuscan dishes, including pasta, cured meats, seafood, and local wines. Look for specialties like Cecina (chickpea flatbread) and Pappa al Pomodoro (tomato and bread soup).
You can find more affordable options like pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) or panini shops a short walk away from the main tourist areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The white marble facade with the Medici crest is a key subject. Inside, focus on capturing the grandeur of the altar and the artistic details of the paintings.
With good lighting and potentially a wider lens, you can capture the impressive interior. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography.
Morning light can be beautiful for the facade, offering softer shadows. Late afternoon light can also be appealing, casting a warm glow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a treasure hunt for specific details, like the Medici coat of arms or the flags from naval battles. This can turn a quiet church visit into a more interactive experience for younger visitors. Nearby, the rest of Piazza dei Cavalieri offers more visual interest with its grand palaces.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the architectural evolution, from Vasari's original design to Silvani's later additions. The church's interior is a gallery of 16th and 17th-century art, with works by Vasari, Bronzino, and Foggini, offering a rich context for understanding the artistic and religious landscape of the period.
🎨 Art Lovers
The main altar by Foggini is a Baroque masterpiece, and the gilded wooden ceiling adorned with panels from various artists provides a stunning visual experience. Don't miss the details in the choir, including the copy of Donatello's work.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Inside, the church continues to impress with its artistic richness. The main altar, a masterpiece of polychrome marble, porphyry, and gilded bronze, was crafted by the sculptor Foggini between 1702 and 1709. It houses the relics of Saint Stephen. The ceiling, dating back to 1603, is a marvel of gilded and carved wood, adorned with panels by renowned artists such as Allori, Cigoli, and Empoli, showcasing the artistic patronage of the era.
The church also holds valuable organs by D'Onofrio and Azzolino della Chiaia, and in the choir, a copy of a silvered bronze reliquary bust of S. Lussorio, originally a work by Donatello, speaks to the church's historical and artistic importance.
The Order of the Knights of Santo Stefano
Visitors can still see tangible evidence of the Knights' military exploits within the church. Fragments of galleys, flags, and trophies taken from battles against the Turks are preserved here, offering a unique historical perspective. These artifacts serve as a testament to the Order's active role in naval warfare and their significant contributions to the defense of the region.
The Order played a crucial role in Pisa's history and identity for centuries. Its legacy is not only preserved in the church but also in the continued presence of the Order's institutions, which still engage in cultural and charitable activities, sometimes awarding prestigious recognitions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit