The town of Pietrasanta is tucked away just a few kilometres from the Versilia coast and surrounded by the Apuan Alps. It is only 32 km north of Pisa and about an hour away from Florance, making it easily accessible and a great stop along your Tuscan holiday.
In this blog post, we will share everything you need to know about beautiful Pietrasanta, the town’s key attractions, and cultural sites that make it a must-visit destination. We will highlight seasonal events and festivals that bring the town to life throughout the year, and finally, we’ll share why staying with Lucca Apartments and Villas while in Pietrasanta is the best choice for an unforgettable Tuscan experience.
Origins of Pietrasanta
Pietrasanta is often referred to as the “City of Artists,” because it has such a rich artistic past that has shaped the town’s importance and cultural significance. The town was founded in the 13th century by Guiscardo da Pietrasanta (the town’s namesake), and quickly became a strategic and economic hub as it was located near other major cities, the coastline and natural resources like the Carrara marble reserve.
Throughout the town’s history, Pietrasanta has been influenced by many important figures and events. The famous Medici family, who ruled Florence, invested in its development, establishing it as a centre for marble production. This choice is what attracted so many artists and sculptors, including Michelangelo, to come to the area.
Since then, Pietrasanta has evolved into a renowned artistic location, preserving its artistic heritage and also inviting a new generation of local artists to flourish. Let’s have a look into the key attractions and cultural sites that make Pietrasanta an art lovers’ dream destination.
Key attractions and cultural sites in Pietrasanta
Apart from wandering down the beautiful streets of Pietrasanta, the town offers some must-see attractions. Here are our top picks for places to visit while in Pietrasanta:
Art galleries
Pietrasanta boasts a multitude of traditional galleries scattered throughout the town, each offering a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the area. However, what truly sets Pietrasanta apart is its reputation as an “open-air museum.” The town’s streets and squares are adorned with an impressive array of famous sculptures and captivating art installations, creating a seamless blend of history and contemporary art in every corner.
Being in close proximity to the renowned marble quarries, Pietrasanta has naturally become a hub for sculptors and artists. This advantageous location has led to the establishment of numerous sculpture workshops and studios, where you can witness artisans at work, crafting masterpieces from marble. In addition to these workshops, the town is dotted with public art installations, making art an integral part of the urban landscape. Visitors can enjoy a walking tour through Pietrasanta, encountering extraordinary pieces of art at every turn and experiencing firsthand the vibrant cultural atmosphere that defines this unique town.
Museums
The museums found in Pietrasanta are a testament to the town’s artistic significance.
The Museo dei Bozzetti is dedicated to sculpture and has pieces from more than 350 artists. The museum is open on Mondays from 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm and again from 2 pm – 7 pm. On Sundays and holidays, opening hours are 10: 00 am – 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Entry is free.
The Museo Archeologico Versiliese is located near the popular Piazza del Duomo and offers a fascinating collection of historical artefacts from the region’s ancient past. This museum is perfect for history enthusiasts looking to learn more about the ancient world in this region. During the summer season, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Historical sites
Pietrasanta’s historic centre is worth exploring as it holds many architectural landmarks. The Piazza del Duomo is the heart of the town and has the Cathedral of San Martino. This 13th-century cathedral is a must-see from both the outside and the inside. Adjacent to it is the Bell Tower of San Martino, famous for its unique helicoidal staircase designed by Donato Benti.
The Duomo is open every day from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm, and again in the afternoon from 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm (7:00 pm in the summer).
The Church of Sant’Agostino is another beautiful spot that serves as a church but also an art exhibition, housing more than 700 plaster sculptures from international artists.
Events and festivals in Pietrasanta
Many fun seasonal events and festivals take place throughout the year in Pietrasanta. One of the most anticipated events is the Pietrasanta in Concerto, which is a music festival, held annually in July. This festival has performances by world-class musicians and orchestras throughout stunning venues. Another special event is the Cultural Summer or Estate Pietrasantina, which takes place over the summer and has an open-air theatre, concerts, dance performances, and literary events.
Local markets and fairs add to the town’s cultural scene. There is a monthly antique market, held on the first Sunday of each month, and in the Piazza del Duomo, you can also find many food festivals taking place on weekends. Other events like the Versilia Produce Festival are highly anticipated and attract gourmet and local food lovers alike.
Christmas is also a very popular time full of local festivals and charming events throughout the city, but one of the more famous local festivals is held in the nearby town of Viareggio, which celebrates the Viareggio Carnival marking the start of the Great Lent, beginning on Ash Wednesday.
Viareggio Carnival
Why Pietrasanta should be your next holiday stop
Pietrasanta is a great town to visit and stay in to not only immerse yourself in some of the most spectacular art and history that Italy has to offer but also to get you away from the larger crowds in places like Florence. It has a unique vibe as it blends historical art and culture with modern and contemporary workshops and public installations.
Visiting in the summer months is a great idea since you can take advantage of the many street festivals and events that are taking place throughout Pietrasanta, as well as enjoying some downtime by the beach as the town is only 3 kilometres away from the coast. While exploring the area, make sure to try some of the local cuisine and even enjoy an excursion to the great outdoors hiking in the Apuan Alps.
When planning your stay in Pietrasanta and along the many other towns of Tuscany, Lucca Apartments and Villas are an ideal choice for top accommodation. You have a wide variety of properties to choose from, all catering to you and your group’s size and needs.
Book your stay with Lucca Apartments and Villas today for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Tuscany. Discover the magic of Pietrasanta and explore the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this remarkable region.
