Tuscany – Pistoia

On the road in the province of Pistoia

The province of Pistoia offers a varied mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. A selection of what you should not miss during your stay.

Nature

The Montagna Pistoiese is without a doubt the nature reserve to visit in the province of Pistoia. This nature reserve encompasses the mountains of Abetone, Cutigliano, Marliana, Piteglio, Sambuca Pistoiese, San Marcello Pistoiese, Pescia, Montale, and Pistoia. It covers more than half of the province.

Due to its high altitude, it is one of the coolest spots in Tuscany, and consequently, pines, chestnut trees, beech trees, and oaks grow there predominantly. Microclimates have developed in some areas, resulting in an enormous diversity of fauna. Among others, thrushes, jays, marmots, deer, roe deer, wild boars, martens, bats, and wolves can be found there in the wild.

Those wishing to delve deeper into this area can visit the Ecomuseo della Montagna Pistoiese. In this museum, you can find everything about the history of the region and the diverse plants and animals found there.

Culture

The region around Pistoia is best known for two remarkable villas: Villa La Màgia and Villa Celle. Villa La Màgia is located in the center of Quarrata. It was built by the Panchiatichi family from Pistoia and eventually fell into the hands of the influential De' Medici family. The villa is now on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is open to tourists.

Villa Celle in Santomato di Pistoia is particularly beloved for its sculpture park. This collection was assembled by Giuliano Gori and has been on display to the public in the park and the adjacent Fattoria di Celle since 1980. The collection is a cross-section of contemporary modern sculpture and is grouped together under the name Gori Collection.

culinary

Just as in the rest of Tuscany, the cuisine of Pistoia is based on simplicity and quality. Typical specialties are:

• crostini di milza: croutons with a tapenade of anchovies, capers, cognac, and white wine.
• zuppa di pane alla pistoiese: soup with bread and beans
• minestra di rigaglie: soup with bread and cheese
• cioncia: veal stew
• biroldo pistoiese: blood sausage
• brigidini di Lamporecchio: anise cookies

Because the province is largely situated in the mountains, their influence is also visible in Pistoiese cuisine. Chestnut flour, porcini mushrooms, forest fruits, and Pecorino cheese all originate from the higher regions. The region also boasts several excellent wines, including Bianco della Val di Nievole, Montalbano, and Carmignano.

Walking

It almost goes without saying that the Montagna Pistoiese is the perfect place to head out on foot. There are various beautiful routes to walk through the mountains, for both beginners and more advanced hikers.

Walking route

There are various beautiful walking routes to be found around Maresca. Each section of a route has its own color. For example, you can walk from Maresca towards Case Alte and from there back towards Maresca. Along the way, you will pass through picturesque villages, returning to your starting point after about 3,5 kilometers.

Cycling

The Montagna Pistoiese also has a lot in store for cyclists. The many mountain passes make for routes that won't get boring quickly. However, due to the elevation changes, it does require some perseverance at times.

Cycling route

From Abetone, an interesting and relatively easy route leads towards Anello. It is about 9,4 kilometers long and has little elevation change. From the central square, you cycle towards the Boscolungo forest, and then return to Abetone via Monte Maiori and Vergninina di Serrabassa.

Wellness

The province of Pistoia has two thermal springs: that of Monsummano Terme and that of Montecatini TermeThe latter is one of the most important in Europe. Its water is said to be particularly good for digestion. No fewer than nine spas have been built around the springs, offering a wide variety of treatments. Here you can unwind completely during your holiday to Tuscany.

The main attraction of Monsummani Terme is the Grotta Giusti, a cave with thermal spring water. It is now part of a larger spa complex that offers a multitude of wellness treatments.

Events

Every Italian village and hamlet has its festivities and events, and naturally, this is also true for the province of Pistoia. Some events that stand out:

Festa del Fungo Porcino: porcini mushrooms grow in abundance in the Montagna Pistoiese. Reason enough to dedicate an event to it, such as in Montagnana Pistoiese. At the end of June, residents there celebrate this particularly flavorful mushroom for three days.

Palio dei Rioni (Pescia): a palio in Pescia, usually held in late August/early September. For eight days, the town goes back in time with dinners, music, and a procession in traditional costume.

Pistoia, the city itself

Pistoia is particularly popular with tourists because of the enormous number of churches to be found there. However, it would be a shame to limit yourself to churches during your holiday to Tuscany. After all, the city has much more to offer.

Culture

The cultural attractions of Pistoia are located primarily around the city's two large squares: Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Sala. The city's cathedral is situated on the former square. This is also the city's most important church.

The Piazza della Sala was partially destroyed during the Second World War but was completely restored in the 80s. The well with the lion was temporarily located in the Piazza del Duomo but was returned after the restoration. The Piazza della Sala is currently also used as a marketplace.

Other sights:

• Ospedale del Ceppo: a medieval hospital.
• Palazzo Comunale (also known as Palazzo degli Anziani or Palazzo di Giano): the town hall of Pistoia, built between the 13th and 14th centuries. It still serves as the town hall and is also home to the Museo Civico.
• Palazzo dei Vescovi: the bishop's palace, located on Piazza del Duomo. Through thorough restoration in the late 70s, it was returned to its original state.

Click here for an atmospheric first impression of the beautiful town of Pistoia!

Nature

The Parco di Collodi (also known as Pinocchio Park It is located right next to Pistoia. Everything about Pinocchio can be found in this park, making it perfectly suitable for a holiday with children. Those who prefer to enjoy nature can take a walk through the Giardino Garzoni, a cultivated garden that is also very popular for weddings.

Events

Pistoia hosts countless events, from winter to summer. The two largest and most visited are:

• Giostra dell' Orso: a festival in the name of the city's patron saint (San Jacopo). This event is held every year on July 25. On Piazza del Duomo, the four districts of Pistoia compete against each other in a real horse race. With a lance, the riders must try to spear a bear (the symbol of the city).
• Pistoia Blues: a blues festival that lasts a full week; it is usually held in early July. Both national and international blues artists take the stage.