The Church of Santa Maria della Spina is a tiny Gothic church on the south bank of the Arno in Pisa. Its marble exterior is crowded with pinnacles, gables and carved figures, giving the riverside chapel the appearance of an elaborate reliquary. It is one of the most striking sights along Lungarno Gambacorti, despite being easy to miss among the city’s larger landmarks.
Founded in the 13th century, the church took its present name after a thorn believed to be from Christ’s crown of thorns was brought here in 1333; spina means “thorn” in Italian. The building was enlarged and embellished in the Pisan Gothic style, with sculptures associated with Giovanni Pisano and his followers. In the 1870s, repeated flooding prompted its dismantling and reconstruction at a higher level beside the river.
Santa Maria della Spina rewards a close look at its sculpted exterior, while its small, comparatively simple interior sometimes hosts exhibitions or cultural events. Visit in the morning or near sunset for softer light on the marble, and check locally before planning to go inside, as access can vary. The exterior is free to admire at any time; take care crossing the busy riverside road for a photograph.