Perillo Tours

A simple mansion on the banks of the Arno, near the Leaning Tower and duomo, the Palazzo Reale was built in the 16th century as a summer escape for the Medici family.

It is believed that Galileo used the tower here to observe the stars. Now the place is home to the Soprintendenza dei Beni Culturali, the national institute for preservation of archaeological and artistic treasures as well as city structures and buildings.

There is a gallery with important works of art, including some paintings by Raffaello and Canova, and archeological displays from excavations of Pisa's ancient harbor.