Piazza della Sala: Pistoia's Vibrant Heart
Experience the vibrant heart of Pistoia at Piazza della Sala, a historic square brimming with market life, cultural heritage, and local charm.
Piazza della Sala, located in the heart of Pistoia, is a vibrant square that serves as the city's main gathering place and a testament to its rich history. The square's origins date back to Lombard rule when it served as the center of power. Over the centuries, it has transformed into a bustling commercial hub, retaining its lively atmosphere to this day. The square is surrounded by historic buildings with traces of workshops, stone counters and wooden canopies. The Palazzo degli Anziani, once the center for free trade, adds to the square's historical significance. A distinctive feature of Piazza della Sala is the Pozzo del Leoncino, a well adorned with a little stone lion, dating back to 1453. Every morning, excluding Sundays, the square comes alive with a fruit and vegetable market, offering fresh local produce. In the evenings, Piazza della Sala transforms into a popular spot for socializing, with locals and tourists gathering at its cafes and restaurants. Nearby, the Piazzetta dell'Ortaggio features the Giro del Sole, a bronze sculpture by Roberto Barni. Piazza della Sala is not just a tourist attraction; it's a vibrant meeting place that captures the essence of Pistoia.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the freshest produce at the market and a quieter atmosphere.
- Try the local specialties at the nearby cafes, especially the traditional pastries.
- Bring a camera; the architecture and market scenes are picture-perfect.
- Check local event calendars as Piazza della Sala often hosts cultural events and festivals.
A brief summary to Piazza della Sala
- Pistoia, Province of Pistoia, 51100, IT
Getting There
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Walking
Piazza della Sala is located within Pistoia's historic center and is easily accessible by foot from most points in the city. From the Pistoia train station, head north on Via dell'Ospizio, then turn right onto Via della Libertà. Continue until you reach Piazza della Sala, approximately a 15-minute walk. From Piazza del Duomo, it's a short walk through the city center.
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Public Transport
From the Pistoia train station, local buses connect to the city center. Look for buses heading towards Piazza Garibaldi; from there, Piazza della Sala is a short walk. Bus tickets cost around €1.20. The nearest bus stop to Piazza Della Sala is Via Curtatone E Montanara, which is a 2-minute walk.
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Parking
If arriving by car, be aware that Pistoia's city center is a ZTL (limited traffic zone). Several parking options are available outside the ZTL. Parcheggio Pertini offers a good balance of cost and proximity, costing €2 per day. Parcheggio Cellini and Parcheggio Stadio are free but require a shuttle or a longer walk. Closer to the center, Parcheggio Porta del Borgo is available, though more expensive. Parcheggio in superficie Misericordia is very close to Piazza della Sala, with rates starting at €1.20 for the first 30 minutes and up to €14 per day.
Attractions Nearby to Piazza della Sala
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Battistero di San Giovanni in Corte
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Cattedrale di San Zeno
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Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola
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Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo
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Montecatini Alto
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Podere Cavozzoli
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State Reserve province of Prato
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Terme Tettuccio
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Montecatini Terme
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Birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci
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Museo Leonardiano di Vinci
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Church of the Holy Cross
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Leonardo Museum palazina Uzielli
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Villa Medici in Poggio a Caiano
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Rio Buti
Landmarks nearby to Piazza della Sala
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Piazza San Francesco
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Piazza Dante Alighieri
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San Michele e San Francesco, Carmignano
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Castello dell'Imperatore
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Piazza dei Conti Guidi
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Balzi dell'ora
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Il Quercione
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Cascate del Dardagna
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Outlet Barberino
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Parish of San Giuliano a Settimo
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Mugello&Tuscany di Carmen Badiali
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Castello di Barberino di Mugello
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San Miniato
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Piazza Dante Alighieri, 3
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Town Hall (San Miniato)