The Camposanto – Pisa, Italy - Atlas Obscura

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The Camposanto

Next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a cemetery home to ancient sarcophagi and disturbing murals. 

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While the Camposanto (monumental cemetery) is right next to one of the most recognized buildings in the world, it does not see nearly as many visitors. The silence and stillness when traversing the open-air hallways add to the sometimes haunting nature of the 14th-15th-century frescoes. These works of art include “The Last Judgement,” “Hell,” and “The Triumph of Death and Thebaid.”

The stone floor tiles are all gravestones dating to the late 13th century and sarcophagi are scattered throughout the halls. Well-respected and famous people rest here, including members of the Medici family. From the beginning, this building was designed to preserve the history of medieval Italy.

The most obscure part of wandering through the halls is its beauty juxtaposed with its collection of ghastly murals that depict demons and the devil. As visitors walk down the stone halls there are exquisitely sculpted sarcophagi tomb decorations of goddess-like women and saints all around. 

Know Before You Go

Tickets can be purchased at the visitor center opposite the tower. One ticket pays for entry into multiple buildings throughout the site.

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