Prato is a Tuscan city which is less well-known than some of its closest neighbours, like Pisa and Florence, but is no less fascinating. While this is, by no means, some hidden gem (it is the second most highly-populated town in Tuscany) you will, however, face less of an intense tourist crowd in Prato. In addition to not having to line up outside museums for long periods of time, the city offers just as rich a history and cultural heritage as any other in the area. In particular, it is a town that has produced some wonderful art, architecture and design over the centuries and has an especially important history of textile production. If you're looking for things to do once you've found a vacation rental in Prato, look no further! We've rounded up some great things to do in this great cultural city.
The Emperor's Castle is a castle which is considered one of the most important examples of medieval architecture in Prato. The square, thick-walled, imposing building is full of history and interest and worth visiting in its own right but is also now home to local events, festivals and, even, movie screenings. Work on the castle began under architect Riccardo da Lentini in 1237 and ended in 1248 by order of the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II of Swabia. The most obvious feature of the castle is its striking exterior and it is a marvellous example of a Federician Castle, like those that are found in the South of Italy but is the only example in this part of the country.
The production of textiles has been a historically important industry in Prato for over 800 years and it makes sense that the city has a museum dedicated to this practice. The Prato Textile Museum has been open for four decades and is continuously listed as one of the best museums in Italy for fashion and textile history. It was opened in 1975 following a great bequest of more than 600 pieces from the collector Loriano Bertini and the collection now contains over 6,000 objects, including archaeological textiles, medieval vestments, embroidery from the 15th-20th centuries, and equipment for every part of textile production. There are exhibitions, events and workshops for adults and children and it is a highly interactive museum. While you're there, be sure to visit their lovely gift and book shop to pick up some mementos and the café for a snack.
Finally, as you explore the city, make sure to keep your eyes open! Art is everywhere you turn in Prato. Few territories in Italy and Europe can boast the numbers of public art works that Prato has integrated into her landscape. These outdoor artworks include pieces by Giò Pomodoro, Mauro Staccioli and Henry Moore and there is even an outdoor museum at Luicciana. Art-lovers, pay attention, this is truly the Tuscany for you!
Finally, as you explore the city, make sure to keep your eyes open! Art is everywhere you turn in Prato. Few territories in Italy and Europe can boast the numbers of public art works that Prato has integrated into her landscape. These outdoor artworks include pieces by Giò Pomodoro, Mauro Staccioli and Henry Moore and there is even an outdoor museum at Luicciana. Art-lovers, pay attention, this is truly the Tuscany for you!
Photo credit
Picture 2: Massimilianogalardi / CC BY-SA 3.0;
Picture 3: Sansa55 / CC BY-SA 3.0
Picture 2: Massimilianogalardi / CC BY-SA 3.0;
Picture 3: Sansa55 / CC BY-SA 3.0
