Pistoia is a beautiful city in the heart of the Tuscany region of Italy that lies in close proximity to Florence and Pisa.
The city has a current population of 90,000 and is a popular summer destination for both tourists and Italians who come to admire its beautiful medieval architecture. During ancient times, this city was settled by the Etruscans and then became a Roman colony. During the wars between the Guelph’s and the Ghibellines Pistoia changed hands several times and was mainly under Florentine control. This city is also known for being the birthplace of the pistol firearm, and it is said that this form of handgun was first created here during the 16th century.
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1. Cathedral of St. Zeno
The Piazza del Duomo is the central point of interest in the city center and the Cathedral of St. Zeno is a magnificent centerpiece. This cathedral was constructed in the 12th century and has a stunning front façade and bell tower.
Covered with striped polychrome marble, the front façade is colorful and opulent. The adjacent bell tower features a similar design and its topmost levels are crowned with the same striped marble.
Inside the cathedral, there are a plethora of fantastic decorations such as the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament and the Presbytery that is covered in some gorgeous 17th-century frescos. This is undoubtedly a must-see building when visiting Pistoia!
2. St. Zeno Baptistery
Opposite the magnificent cathedral is an equally as opulent and impressive structure – the Baptistery of St. Zeno. This baptistery was constructed after the cathedral during the 14th century and uses a similar external design.
The exterior is covered in beautiful striped marble design with alternating white and green rows of polychrome. Furthermore, there is a series of ornate stone statues of important figures such as John the Baptist and St. Peter.
The inside is quite a contrast and features a plain design with exposed brick walls; the baptismal font is quite striking however and also features a colored marble design.
3. San Giovanni Fuorcivitas
This beautiful religious complex is one of the most beautiful buildings in Pistoia and has a beautiful façade like the famous Duomo in Florence. Created in the 14th century, the northern face of the church is truly monumental and features a striped polychrome marble design.
Furthermore, the arch of the main doorway features a sculpture of the last supper. The interior of this delightful church has a myriad of religious artifacts such as a marble statue depicting the visitation and a gorgeous polyptych created by Taddeo Gaddi.
4. Church of Sant’Andrea
This beautiful church is located to the north of the Piazza del Duomo and can be reached in less than 5 minutes on foot. Inside this church, you can find the famous Pulpit of Sant SuAndrea designed by Giovanni Pisano.
This pulpit is considered to be a true masterpiece and features a series of finely carved sculptures depicting scenes from the bible such as the Dream of the magi and the Crucifixion.
The exterior of this church has a similar design to other Pistoia religious buildings and has some stunning blue and white striped marble. Moreover, the front door has an ornamental arch featuring a series of 15 intricate statues.
5. Palazzo del Comune
Piazza del Duomo Square is full of historic buildings and the Palazzo Commune is an extremely old architecture dating back to the 13th century. This palace is actually unfinished and its front façade features stonework with a series of ornate arched windows and the Medici coat of arms.
Within the confines of the palace is the Pistoia municipal museum – this museum features some fantastic artwork and artifacts from Pistoia and the surrounding region. Furthermore, some of the rooms are decorated in their original style and feature some gorgeous paintings and decorations.
6. Museo Capitolare
For those who are intrigued by historical and religious artifacts, the Cathedral Treasury and Museo Capitolare are the perfect places to visit. Located in the Piazza del Duomo, this fantastic museum contains a staggering amount of relics and artifacts taken from the Cathedral and other sources in Pistoia.
Some notable pieces include the Reliquary of St. Zeno, the Cross of St. Atto and the monument of Cardinal Niccolo Forteguerri. Moreover, there are a range of Renaissance paintings by local artists and a host of other important items related to the history of the city.
7. Visit the spa town of Montecatini Terme
Pistoia is located conveniently in close proximity to several spa towns and Montecatini Terme is one of Europe’s most well-known retreats. You can reach this fantastic town in under an hour and regular buses travel between the two destinations.
Montecatini was originally used by Roman settlers as a healing retreat due to its hot springs and this tradition has been maintained to this day. Within the town, there are a plethora of fantastic historical structures such as the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.
Furthermore, you can find a range of world-class spa retreats that offer facilities such as thermal baths and provided relaxing spa treatments.
8. Pistoia Zoo
Situated to the west of Pistoia city center you can find the wonderful Pistoia Zoo. This wonderful attraction covers over 7 hectares and features more than 400 species of animal. The grounds are well maintained and the habitats of the individual species are spacious and it is clear to see the animals are well cared for.
This is the perfect place to visit for a family day out and you can see such animals as Lions, Red Pandas, Tigers, Giraffe, giant turtles and rare species of frogs. Furthermore, there is also a restaurant and a garden that provides a place to eat and relax.
9. Monte Cimone
For those seeking adventure and exploration, Pistoia lies in close proximity to the immense Monte Cimone. This mountain is the highest in the Apennines of Italy and has an elevation of 2165m.
The whole region is known for its skiing opportunities and Monte Cimone itself is a great place to hike. A common starting point to ascend Monte Cimone is the town of Sestola – from here you can buy supplies and prepare for the hike.
The walk to the summit of this mountain is one of the most breath-taking in this region and the scenery is simply stunning. Furthermore, at the top, you can find an old chapel and several military installations.
10. Church of San Michele Arcangelo
Located in the small Ponte Buggianese commune near Montecatini Terne, the Archangel Michael Church has some truly spectacular works of art and frescoes. Built-in the 17th century, this church has a simple facade and looks quite simple - the treatment is really the interior.
Inside you can find a series of beautiful frescos on the walls and ceilings of the church that depict various religious scenes such as the apocalypse, the last supper and the resurrection of Jesus.
The color, detail, and quality of the artwork are unbelievable and the paintings look so realistic it can be quite unnerving.
More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Piacenza
from : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-pistoia-709446.html
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