03Dec 0 Pistoia Posted By: Anna Maria Baldini 40 Top Sights of Tuscany, Towns in the Province of Pistoia, Tuscany, Tuscan villages and towns, Tuscany travel guide PistoiaPistoia - history, sights, events, accommodation Pistoia is the capital of the Province of Pistoia in Tuscany and is located equidistant between Lucca and Florence. Despite its attractions, Pistoia seems to be unjustly neglected by visitors to this part of Tuscany. In fact, both the city and its environs are well provided with a range of sights of interest. Aerial view of the historic centre of Pistoia in Tuscany, Italy Here is just a sampling of the sights to be enjoyed in Pistoia. The Piazza del Duomo is surrounded by some of Pistoia’s most important historical sights – the baptistery, the cathedral, Palazzo dei Vescovi, and Palazzo Pretorio. Markets are open here on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The Cathedral of Saint Zeno is a 12 C church, with three doorways and a seven-arched portico, decorated in majolica and glazed marble. The Museo dell’Antico Palazzo dei Vescovi (Bishops’ Palace) is a massive, rectangular 11 C Gothic building connected to the cathedral. It is packed with sacred vestments and vessels from the cathedral. San Giovanni in Corte Baptistry was built during the 14 C by Cellino di Nese, according to the designs of Andrea Pisano. The exterior consists alternate bands of white and green marble, and the interior is packed with marvellous works of art. The Basilica della Madonna dell’Umiltà (Basilica of Our Lady of Humility) designed by Vasari in 1563, replicating the cupola of the Florence Duomo to house the stunning fresco of the Madonna, now situated behind the high altar. The Giardino Zoologico di Pistoia (the Zoological Gardens), located on the outskirts of Pistoia, is home to more than 400 species housed in pleasing parklands. Vacation accommodation in Pistoia. Here are some similar topics: Province of Pistoia Pistoia, the city from which the province takes its name, is probably the principal not-to-be-missed sight in the province and yet it is unjustly neglected by visitors to Tuscany. Pistoia is just 40 km from Florence and from Lucca. More… Read More » Lucca The city of Lucca is located in western Tuscany and should at the very least be included in any tour of Tuscany. Lucca also makes an excellent base for your stay in Tuscany. The city is flat, compact and relatively… Read More » Pisa Pisa is a city of unique and to some extent under-rated beauty. Pisa is of course one of the most famous towns in the Region of Tuscany. Many tourists arrive at Pisa airport en route for Florence and neglect to… Read More » Florence Florence, the art and architecture capital of Tuscany and one of the most important art cities in the world. Probably the best months to visit Florence are May, June, September and October. July is very pleasant in terms of weather… Read More » San Miniato San Miniato is an attractive town half-way between Florence and Pisa formerly known as San Miniato al Tedesco to distinguish it from San Miniato al Monte, the beautiful basilica just above Florence.… Read More »