The Elephant Tower and San Pancrazio Tower are remnants of the 14th-century fortifications built by the rulers of Pisa. A third tower was also constructed but ultimately collapsed at the end of the 18th century after being hit by several bombardments over the years.

One side of each tower was sealed off in the mid-14th century to make room for houses and shops. On one side of the Elephant Tower, there is a small sculpture of the elephant that gives the tower its name.

The three other sides of the towers are made of stone in a local architectural style, while the fourth side is open, revealing the wooden supports and floors that make up the interior. Visitors can climb inside the towers and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top.

In 1906, renovations were carried out, giving the towers their current appearance.