Palazzo Agostini, also known as Palazzo dell’Ussero, is a masterpiece of civil Gothic architecture in the heart of Pisa. Its characteristic brick façade decorated with coats of arms and plant motifs makes it unmistakable on the Lungarno. Inside are two gems: the Caffè dell’Ussero, a historic meeting place since 1775, and the Cinema Lumière, one of the oldest Italian cinemas still in operation.
• Brick façade with heraldic and plant motifs, a unique example of civil Gothic.
• Caffè dell’Ussero: founded in 1775, frequented by scientists and intellectuals such as Carducci and Pound.
• Cinema Lumière: screenings since 1899, first sound experiment in 1906.
• Hanging garden of citrus fruits already mentioned in the 15th century, a rarity in the historic center.
Events nearby
On Lungarno Pacinotti, a gem of civil Gothic architecture with a decorated brick façade. On the ground floor, Caffè dell’Ussero since 1775 and Cinema Lumière, the oldest cinema in Italy still in operation.
- Vicolo del Tidi, Pisa (PI)
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Good to know
Evocative Introduction
Historical Notes
- 14th century – Construction of the palace
- 1496 – Acquired by the Agostini family
- 1775 – Opening of Caffè dell’Ussero
- 1839 – First Congress of Italian Scientists
- 1905 – Cinema Lumière opens its doors
Gothic Jewel in Terracotta
Caffè dell’Ussero: A Cup of History
Cinema Lumière: Italy’s Oldest
Why Visit It
When to Go
Nearby
Itineraries nearby
💡 Did You Know…?
It is said that during the restoration in 1895, an ancient trap door was discovered leading to a secret passage to the church of Sant’Ilario. Today, sitting at Carducci’s table at Caffè dell’Ussero, you can almost hear the echoes of the discussions from the first Italian Congress of Scientists in 1839.