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Pistoia

Pistoia is a beautiful city situated on the foot of the Apennines. Pistoia has grown well beyond its medieval ramparts and is the world center for the manufacture of trains. It is here in the 16th century, the pistol, named after the city, was created. The historic center of Pistoia is well-preserved and attracts a lot of tourists. On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, all roads lead to the Piazza del Duomo, where Pistoia hosts a lively market

Things to see in Pistoia

• Cattedrale di San Zeno: The impressive Pisan-Romanesque façade boasts a lunette of the Madonna and Child. Another major attraction of the cathedral is the glazed tiles that line the barrel vault of the main porch. Inside the cathedral there is the spectacular silver altarpiece of San Giacomo.
• Antico Palazzo del Vescovi: There are four guided tours held daily that take the visitors through an impressive collection of artifacts, discovered during restoration work. Some of these artifacts date back to the Etruscan times.
• Ospedale del Ceppo: This splendid monument with its beautiful portico is well worth a visit. The other main attraction is the unique terracotta frieze by Giovanni della Robbia which depicts the Seven Works of Mercy.

Restaurants in Pistoia

If you are looking for a place to eat, drink and rest, head for Via del Lestrone, which is packed with bars and eateries

• Lo Storno: This is one of the oldest restaurants in this area. The atmosphere is bustling and the portions served are large.
• Trattoria dell'Abbondanza: Located on a quiet passage off Piazza Spirito Santo, this little trattoria has a frequently changing menu and also offers a good selection of wines and pastas.
• Ristorante San Jacopo: This is a must visit for some great Tuscan cuisine. The specialties include baccala alla Livornese and maccheroni alla Pistoiese.

Entertainment and Nightlife in Pistoia

Most of the city's popular pubs and cafes are located in Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral square) and Piazza della Sale. Famous cocktail bars include Alibi Club, Bonaventura Club, and Sherlock Holmes Pub. Besides, there are many theatres, nightclubs and cinema houses to spend a relaxed evening. Pistoia also hosts a musical extravaganza, the Pistoia Blues Festival, in summer. For more happening nightclubs, you can go to Florence.

Golfing in Pistoia

The nearest golf course is the Montecatini golf course, set amidst the beautiful surroundings of the Tuscan hills. This 18-hole course beautifully integrates the natural obstacles like lakes, streams, woods, and ditches with the undulation of the ground. Facilities here include a driving range, practice green, renting equipment, golf-car, pro-shop, bar, and restaurant