category of places

Church of San Zeno

About

The Church of San Zeno is one of Pisa’s oldest and most intriguing medieval landmarks, standing near the former Porta San Zeno, once known as the Monetary Gate for its proximity to the city’s mint. Documented as early as 1029Comune di Pisa - Turismo+1, the church was built over earlier structures, including a 7th‑century triple‑apse complex discovered beneath the floor during 1972 restorations. Its Romanesque façade is preceded by a distinctive portico decorated with lozenges, oculi, and reused Roman columns and capitalsComune di Pisa - Turismo+1. The upper level features mullioned windows and once displayed Islamic ceramic basins, now preserved in the Museo di San Matteo. Inside, the basilica plan with nave and aisles retains ancient Roman capitals and traces of medieval frescoesWikipedia. San Zeno’s layered history and architectural purity make it a compelling stop for visitors exploring Pisa’s early religious heritage.

Pisa Italy

Location

Church of San Zeno is located at Largo San Zeno or Piazza San Zeno in Pisa's historic centre, just inside the medieval Porta San Zeno city gate at the northeastern end near the ancient walls. This Romanesque abbey church from 1021 features a porch with geometric motifs, diverse architectural styles blending over centuries, and stands amid an area once filled with Roman ruins known as "alle grotte." Nearby lie Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, Piazza Martiri della Libertà with its monument, Terme di Nerone archaeological site, Porta a Montanara, lively university quarter eateries, and scenic walks to Piazza dei Cavalieri or Piazza dei Miracoli through narrow medieval streets.

Church of San Zeno

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