The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a monument to determination and medieval architecture. Not to be outdone, other sites that dot the Piazza dei Miracoli, such as the Cathedral of Pisa and the Baptistery, are beautiful examples of the religious and civil life of Pisa in the 12th century.

Discover the wonder and majesty of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a four-hour excursion. Departing from Livorno, sit back and relax as you journey through the hillsides of Tuscany to Pisa, one of Tuscany's most beautiful cities. At the height of its powers from the 11th to the 13th centuries, Pisa dominated the western Mediterranean and Pisans quickly went to work creating architectural delights befitting such an imperious city.

The Piazza dei Miracoli, located on the northern edge of the city, is your destination. Once you arrive at the "Square of Miracles," you'll disembark and set off on a walking tour around the Piazza, an awe- inspiring link to Pisa's glory days and home to some of Italy's most renowned historical sights. In the heart of the Piazza sits the Duomo, the Cathedral of Pisa and the first structure erected in the square. Built in 1064, the holy building would not be completed for another 54 years. The imposing Romanesque structure features a marvelous array of variegated colonnades and arches, and a four-tiered façade of gray-and-white striped marble. The second structure to be built was the circular Baptistery. Begun in 1152 in the Romanesque style, it was completed a century later in the more ornate Gothic style.

The oldest site on the Piazza is the Camposanto. Built in 1278, this serene cemetery is believed to hold earth reputedly brought back during the Crusades from Golgotha, the hill where Jesus was crucified, so that noble Pisans could rest in holy ground.

Next, you'll stroll to the Piazza's crowning glory, the Leaning Tower. Called one of the "Seven Wonders of the Medieval World," the Tower was originally designed as the Cathedral's campanile or bell tower. Construction began in 1173 but by the time the third floor was finished in 1178, it was apparent that the tower had begun to lean. Standing 185 feet high and made of white marble, the Tower boasts eight stories.

At the conclusion of the tour, you'll have the envied-opportunity to climb the 297-step spiral staircase inside the Tower that leads to the top. Then, you'll have an opportunity to relax in a nearby café for a complimentary drink or gelato as well as enjoy some free time to further explore the Piazza, take photos, meander around the nearby Orto Botanico, one of Europe's oldest botanical gardens, or visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, a modern museum that rests inside the Cathedral's former Chapter House. Finally, you'll return along the same scenic route back to your ship in Livorno.