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Cycle of Frescoes by Deodato Orlandi
The fresco cycle of Deodato Orlandi covers the central nave of the basilica in Pisa, a vast series of murals executed around 1300 by the Lucchese painter Deodato Orlandi. Commissioned by the prominent Pisanese Gaetani family to mark Pope Bonifacio VIII's first declared Jubilee, the work spans three superimposed registers that depict the lives of the early popes and the apostles Peter and Paul. What to see: these important medieval frescoes illustrate key moments from early Christian history.
Western Apse
The Western Apse is the grand apse that closes the western end of the basilica, built between the mid-12th and early 13th centuries to replace the original façade that had been destroyed. In front of it stands an early 14th-century Gothic ciborium, which marks the spot where tradition holds that Saint Peter erected his first altar.
Series of Pontifical Portraits
The Pontiffs' Portrait Series is a painted frieze running along the lower register of the central nave walls, depicting every pope from Saint Peter the Apostle through to John XVII (pontificate 1003), with each figure labelled. Created by Deodato Orlandi in the early 14th century, it forms part of an extensive fresco cycle. What to see in Pisa's religious heritage: a remarkable chronicle of papal succession in paint.
Base of the Romanesque Bell Tower (12th century)
The base of this Romanesque bell tower is all that remains of an imposing 12th-century structure that once stood beside the basilica. Destroyed in 1944, only the foundation was reconstructed due to insufficient funds for a complete restoration. What to see here is a poignant reminder of Pisa's medieval heritage and the damage inflicted during the Second World War.
Ceramic Basins (In Situ Copies)
The ceramic bowls you see set into the outer walls of the Basilica of San Pietro a Grado are replicas; the originals were removed during the 1970s and 1980s for conservation and study, and are now housed in Pisa's Museo Nazionale di San Mateo. These embedded ceramics—bowls, dishes and platters—are fitted into the exterior masonry above the blind Romanesque arches that line the building's perimeter. What to see here offers a glimpse into medieval decorative practices and Byzantine influences on Pisan architecture.
17th-century Wooden Crucifix
This 17th-century wooden crucifix is a monumental sculpture standing 2.70 metres tall, depicting Christ on the cross with striking emotional realism. Originally installed above the high altar of the basilica, it was later moved to the right nave's side wall. Following a year-long restoration, the piece has been returned to its original appearance after conservators removed layers of overpainting and heavy dark patina. What to see: this remarkable example of religious sculpture in Pisa.
- 1.Cycle of Frescoes by Deodato Orlandi
- 2.Western Apse
- 3.Series of Pontifical Portraits
- 4.Base of the Romanesque Bell Tower (12th century)
- 5.Ceramic Basins (In Situ Copies)
- 6.17th-century Wooden Crucifix
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