About this experience
Have you already visited Florence, Pisa, and Siena? Then it's time to explore an authentic gem of Tuscany - Pistoia. Here, a young Filippo Brunelleschi worked above a silver altar, and the smallest anatomical theater in the world is located in this city, along with underground tunnels that were once riverbed. Get ready for discoveries, as there will be plenty on our tour!
What to expect
Saint Zeno Cathedral, first mentioned in the 10th century. Like many other churches in Tuscany, the cathedral is striped. Inside, you will see a relic of one of the 12 apostles and a silver altar dedicated to Jesus' closest disciple, crafted by the young Brunelleschi.
Baptistery of San Giovanni in Corte, built in record time in the 14th century. Also striped, of course!
Ancient Palace of the Bishops from the 11th century, rebuilt several times and eventually sold into private hands as it did not satisfy the needs of the new bishop Shippione de Ricchi.
Praetorian Palace, where priors once held meetings, each wanting to leave a mark, hence nearly 300 coats of arms are displayed inside and on the facade of the palace.
Palace of the Commune from the 14th century, still serving administrative functions. Hanging on the facade is the marble head of the ruler of Mallorca, Muzzetto II, who was murdered by a Pistoian, Grandonio Gizilieri.
Church of Saint Andrew the Apostle with a unique pulpit by Giovanni Pisano, foreshadowing the Renaissance. The facade features an intriguing portrait of Filippo Tedichi, who sold the city for 10,000 golden florins.
Hospital 'Ospedale del Ceppo', founded in the 13th century by a childless elderly couple and operational until 2013. The frieze depicts the 7 acts of mercy with scenes from the hospital's life.
Piazza della Sala, retaining its medieval roots as a market square. Today, it is the lively heart of the city, where people come for vegetables, fruits, and aromatic spices during the day, and in the evening, the buzz of voices and clinking of forks of dining visitors can be heard.
Church of Saint John outside the city walls, built by the Lombards and remodeled in the 16th century. If you haven't felt that stripes were in vogue then, you won't miss it here (the white and green marble will dazzle your eyes!). Inside is preserved Luke Della Robbia's masterpiece 'Meeting of Mary and Elizabeth'.
You will learn:
- How Filippo Teddichi managed to marry the daughter of Castruccio Castracani while already being in a legal marriage
- Why there is a face resembling a pig on the facade of one of the churches
- The connection between Pistoia and the city of Santiago de Compostela
- Why bronze and marble heads are displayed on the streets
- Why the city needed Saint Zeno
Organizational details
- Entrance tickets to churches are paid separately. The total cost is approximately €5 per person.
- I will personally guide you on the tour, or another guide from our team.
