Pistoia
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 Although
it is not yet as visited as other towns in Tuscany, Pistoia presents
a well-preserved and charming medieval city inside the old walls.
The large Piazza del Duomo is lined with attractive original
buildings, and is the setting (in July) of the Bear Joust (Giostra
dell'Orso), when the best horsemen of the districts of the town tilt
with lances at a target held up by a dummy shaped like a bear.
Pistoia can be a real discovery. Its past is reflected in the
ancient stones on the roads and in the squares of the centre, in the
colour of its architecture, in the wise words of its people and in
the strong taste of its food, and visitors can explore a city away
from the more crowded itineraries.
It is still possible to find Pistoia’s trade and craft shops or
you can sample traditional food in cosy, characteristic surroundings.
The city has various cultural events involving visitors with theatre
shows, musicals, guided tours, art exhibitions and literary meetings,
and there are plenty of events related to the local folklore. The
ancient gardens in the surrounding countryside have been turned into
modern nursery centres making Pistoia one of the most famous cities
in this field.
You know for sure Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, Volterra, San
Gimignano, Pienza (all these places are from 30 minutes to 2 hours
far from Pistoia), but other minor places like Monsummano Terme,
with its spectacular natural caves and chocolate's festival, Pescia
with its renowned flower market and the 18th century Villa Garzoni
surrounded by a marvellous garden in Italian style, merit a visit.
Geographically Pistoia is in the middle of the Tuscan province of
the same name, is 67 meters above sea level. It is located on a wide
plain on the Ombrone River and lies between Monte Albano and the
slopes of the Appenines.
Weblinks
- Official
Website
- Cultural
Association "Made in..." |
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