Today the second largest city of Tuscany is known more as industrial center where textiles are mostly produced. But Prato is an ancient city with the proven list of interesting monuments.
Prato located very close to the Florence and it would not take a much from you to get to the city. Two cities became deeply coherent from 1350 when Florentine troops occupied the city. A little later their occupation has been confirmed by the Neapolitan king.
Since this moment all political events of Florence were reflected in the Prato. For example, Savonarola got here many upholders in his fight with Medici. In 1512 Prato has been sacked by the Imperial troops when they tried to attack the Florence.
Of course relationships with Florence were paid off when Florentines reclaimed all restriction on manufacturing in the city. And today Prato even surpassed the capital of Toscana. Florence is a touristic city whereas Prato mostly generates its income from the production.
I was not surprised when learned that main museum in the city is dedicated to the textile. Of course in the city there are many of others interesting museums like Museo di Pittura Murale where you can find excellent medieval murals. Like many others cities in Italy Prato preserved its medieval fortifications. You will probably start your excursion by passing through fortified underpass (Cassero) which leads to the city center.
In the center you will find one of the main landmarks of Prato - Castello dell’Imperatore – massive fortress which has been built in 13 century by Frederick II. Frederick often had used this castle as makeshift station on his way to the south Italy.
Only a few rooms were restored in the castle but you can stroll on its ramparts to get wonderful views of Prato and its vicinity.
Church Santa Maria delle Carceri is a main Renaissance sight of Prato. This church was built to commemorate the mysterious appearance of Virgin Mary's image on the wall of local jail.
Another interesting church in Prato – is a San Francesco church which has been built in the 13 century. Next to it you can find Datini’s house which today hosts the city’s archive. You can easily find this building by the sheer relief on its façade.
One of the main places for meetings in Prato – is a Piazza del Comune at the center of which there is a nice statue. As you may be guessed from its name this Piazza hosts Palazzo Comunale which is open for public visits. In front of it you can find medieval Palazzo Pretorio which hosts the Museo Civico.
The loveliest Piazza del Duomo located in few minutes from Piazza del Comune. The Cathedral of Prato has façade designed in Pisan-Romanesque style and on its exterior you can find a work of Donatello. Donatello made the Pulpit of the Sacred Girdle where was displayed the main relic of Prato’s Duomo – the Belt of Virgin Mary. It’s generally accepted that this girdle has been brought to the city by one crusader in 12 century.
Also don’t miss wonderful murals by Filippo Lippi which encircle the main altar of Cathedral.
