Pisa and Lucca: A Tale of Two Cities

Pisa is most famous for its leaning tower, but 1,000 years ago chroniclers claimed it was "the city of marvels with 10,000 towers."  While an exaggeration, in the 11th century Pisa was a thriving city and a maritime power. Pisan merchants brought back many new ideas about art and architecture from all over the Mediterranean region.

By the 12th century, Lucca, also in in Tuscany, had emerged as one of the region’s trading centers, specializing in silk. Like Pisa, its wealth and importance were reflected in the city’s art and architecture.

Join Renaissance art historian Elaine Ruffolo for an incisive look at these cities and the transformative roles they played on the Mediterranean stage.

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit*

Upcoming Fridays at Noon Programs

• April 2: Mantua
• April 16: All Roads Lead to Rome Part I
• April 30: All Roads Lead to Rome Part II
• June 25: Raphael and the Papal Apartments

Patron Information

• If you register multiple individuals, you will be asked to supply individual names and email addresses so they can receive a Zoom link email. Please note that if there is a change in program schedule or a cancellation, we will notify you via email, and it will be your responsibility to notify other registrants in your group.
• Unless otherwise noted, registration for streaming programs typically closes two hours prior to the start time on the date of the program.
• Once registered, patrons should receive an automatic email confirmation from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.
• Separate Zoom link information will be emailed closer to the date of the program. If you do not receive your Zoom link information 24 hours prior to the start of the program, please email Customer Service for assistance.
• View Common FAQs about our Streaming Programs on Zoom.

*Enrolled participants in the World Art History Certificate Program receive 1/2 elective credit. Not yet enrolled? Learn about the program, its benefits, and how to register here.