Pisa is a city and comune situated in Tuscany, Central Italy, straddling the Arno River just before it empties into the Ligurian Sea. It serves as the capital city of the Province of Pisa. The municipality lies within the region of Tuscany and functions as a significant administrative center for the surrounding province, maintaining its role as a key urban hub in Central Italy.

The origin of the name Pisa is believed to derive from Etruscan, meaning 'mouth', reflecting its location at the river's mouth. Excavations in the 1980s and 1990s confirmed its Etruscan origins and maritime trade relations with Mediterranean civilizations. It became a Roman colony under the name Portus Pisanus in 180 BC before evolving into a major maritime republic, reaching its apex of power in the 11th century through naval dominance and commercial expansion.

The city is globally renowned for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, though it contains more than twenty other historic churches and several medieval and Renaissance palaces along the Lungarno avenues. Much of this architecture was financed by its history as one of the four main Italian maritime republics. The Piazza del Duomo, including the cathedral funded by gold from Palermo, stands as a central heritage site, while the city retains its character as a historic port that once controlled significant Mediterranean trade routes.

Pisa is animated by its student population, with the University of Pisa dating back to the 12th century and the Scuola Normale Superiore founded in 1810. The presence of over 60,000 students creates a vibrant cultural atmosphere with parties, shows, and events that fill the central streets at night. Visitors are drawn to the pedestrian streets connecting the Campo dei Miracoli to the train station, which offer architectural marvels, shops, and restaurants in a small, cosy city center.

The population of Pisa is 88,737 as of 2023. The city is served by Pisa International Airport, located just 2 km south of the main railway station, with frequent flights across Europe and connections via the automated Pisamover tram system. The climate features mild winters where temperatures rarely drop below zero and warm summers mitigated by sea winds, making spring and autumn particularly pleasant for visiting due to moderate rainfall.