General Information about Pistoia
A traveller wrote at the end of the 19 century -" Those who don't know Pistoia can't even imagine what artistic treasures are hidden there" and it is exactly this that surprises visitors who wind on foot through its enchanting streets and squares, not only because of its world renowned artistic masterpieces but because of the atmosphere you feel as you lose yourself in its streets.
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.
The surface of the municipal area is 236,77 kmq. The inhabitans are
about 90.000.
Postcode: 51100. Telephone code: 0039 0573.
