Versilia in TascaPietrasanta: art, Piazza del Duomo and Botero's works
Pietrasanta is a town where art is made, not just looked at: craftsmen and sculptors from around the world work in its marble studios and foundries.
Piazza del Duomo
The heart of town is the long, theatrical Piazza del Duomo, with the Cathedral of San Martino, its brick bell tower and the church of Sant'Agostino, often used for exhibitions. Up on the hill stands the Rocca di Sala. Contemporary sculptures are often displayed in the square.
Botero's Warrior defends Pietrasanta with a paella pan and a billiard cue.
In Botero's footsteps
Colombian artist Fernando Botero bought a house in Pietrasanta in 1983 and opened a studio here. Two stops not to miss:
- the Warrior (1992) in Piazza Matteotti, holding a paella pan as a shield;
- the frescoes Gate of Paradise and Gate of Hell (1993) in the Chiesa della Misericordia on Via Mazzini.
Markets and events
On the first Sunday of each month the Antiquari a Pietrasanta antiques market fills Piazza Statuto and Piazza Crispi (9 am–8 pm). In November there's the San Martino Fair. The calendar is on Pietrasanta Incanta.
Getting there
Pietrasanta has a station on the coastal railway, a short walk from the centre. It pairs well with Forte dei Marmi and Marina di Pietrasanta.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Botero's frescoes in Pietrasanta?
In the Chiesa della Misericordia (San Biagio and Sant'Antonio Abate) on Via Mazzini, painted in 1993.
When is the antiques market in Pietrasanta?
On the first Sunday of the month, 9 am to 8 pm, in Piazza Statuto and Piazza Crispi.
Sources: Visit Tuscany – Botero e la Versilia, SeiVersilia, Pietrasanta Incanta. General information: opening times, prices and dates change, so always check the official websites.
