The fortress of Giardino Scotto, formerly known as Fortezza Nuova or Cittadella Nuova, is one of the main monuments of Pisa, although it cannot match the fame of the Leaning Tower. The defensive fortress was built in the east of the city in 1440, at the height of the military pressure on Pisa from the Florentine Republic.

During the 19th century, a large garden was built inside the fortress, which became public in the early 20th century.

Even today, the fortress walls retain almost their original appearance, although they underwent a complete restoration in 2008.

How to get there

Giradino Scotto is on the eastern edge of Pisa's centre, from which you can walk along the seafront in about 20 minutes. The nearest bus stop is called Galilei 1 and the LAM Verde, 2, 4, 5 and 14 lines stop here.