Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the
Sette Opere di Misericordia
(Seven Works of Mercy), while the five medallions rep-
resent the
Virtù Teologali
(Theological Virtues).
Even more astonishing is the underground labyrinth that weaves its way beneath the an-
cient hospital.
Known as
Pistoia Sotteranea,
one-hour guided visits take visitors underground into the
belly of the 13th-century hospital, an important school of surgery in the 16th century. Ogle
at subterranean rivers, old surgical tools, scalpels and all sorts.
WORTH A TRIP
AN ART LOVER'S DETOUR
A tea house, aviary and other romantic 19th-century follies mingle with cutting-edge art installations
created by the world's top contemporary artists at
Fattoria di Celle
( 05 7347 9907;
www.goricoll.it
;
Via Montalese 7, Santomato di Pistoia; tours free; visits by appointment only
Mon-Sat summer) , 5km from Pistoia. The extraordinary private collection and passion of loc-
al businessman Giuliano Gori, this unique sculpture park showcases 70 site-specific installations
sprinkled around his vast family estate. Visit s - reserved for serious art lovers - require forward plan-
ning (apply by email at least 30 days in advance) and entail a guided two- to four-hour hike around the
estate.
Festivals & Events
Giostra dell'Orso
Translated as Joust of the Bear, medieval jousting and other equestrian pranks fill Piazza
del Duomo during Pistoia's celebration of its patron saint San Giacomo; 25 July.
CULTURE
Sleeping
Tenuta di Pieve a Celle
( 05 7391 3087;
www.tenutadipieveacelle.it
;
Via di Pieve a Celle 158; d €160; )
From the
driveway lined with cypress trees to the olive grove and pool, this 1850s country estate
3km outside Pistoia, in the hills, is quintessential Tuscany at its best. Its five pretty rooms
with canopy beds overlook expansive gardens and host Fiorenza cooks evening meals on
request using seasonal produce fresh from her organic vegetable garden.
HOTEL
€€
