Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Cathedral Museum), Pisa

The Cathedral Museum (Museo dell'Opera del Duomo) in Pisa is situated in Cathedral Square (Piazza del Duomo), in a historic structure dating back to the 13th century, which has served various purposes including a seminary, art academy, and convent. It consisted of two brick buildings in an L-shape, creating a cloister. Parts of this original structure, including a frescoed vault from that era, are still visible today.

Opened in 1986, the museum was established to exhibit the Cathedral's treasures, items removed from religious monuments for conservation, and other artworks that were part of the cathedral complex but needed a public display space. The museum is named after the organization responsible for managing the cathedral complex, the Opera del Duomo of Pisa.

During the museum's restoration, which took place from 2015 to 2019, there were significant changes made to the museum's exhibition layout. The project, overseen by architect Luigi Cuppellini, aimed to create a more modern and spacious exhibition space. The ground floor now features a large, unified exhibition area, while the first floor is home to several rooms dedicated to showcasing the museum's three most historically and artistically significant pieces: the Griffin of Pisa, the Ivory Madonna by Giovanni Pisano from 1298, and the Borgognone Crucifix. Notably, the Borgognone Crucifix underwent a complete restoration process before being displayed in its new location.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the impressive Porta di Bonanno Pisano, which serves as the entrance to the first room of the exhibition. Additionally, the new exhibition space houses the funerary artifacts of Emperor Henry VII.