10 things to do in Piazza San Francesco Prato Italy
Piazza San Francesco in Prato, Italy is a bustling and vibrant square in the heart of the city. This piazza is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it a great place to spend a day exploring and discovering the city. Here are 10 things to do in Piazza San Francesco that will make your visit to Prato even more enjoyable.
1. Visit the Cathedral of Prato: The Cathedral of Prato is one of the most important religious sites in Italy and is located in the center of Piazza San Francesco. The cathedral was built in the 12th century and features a Romanesque-Gothic style of architecture. The interior of the cathedral is filled with stunning frescoes and sculptures, making it a must-see for any visitor.
2. Explore the Palazzo Pretorio: Located at the northern end of the piazza, the Palazzo Pretorio is a 14th-century palace that was once the home of the local government. Today, the palace is open to the public and houses a museum with a variety of artifacts from the city’s past.
3. Shop in the Mercato Centrale: The Mercato Centrale is a large market located in the center of the piazza. Here, you can find a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as local specialties such as olive oil, cheese, and cured meats.
4. Stroll Through the Giardino dei Semplici: This beautiful garden is located on the south side of the piazza and is filled with a variety of plants and flowers. The garden is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the city.
5. Visit the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo: This museum is located in the Palazzo Pretorio and houses a variety of artifacts from the Cathedral of Prato. The museum features a variety of sculptures, frescoes, and other pieces of art from the cathedral.
6. Enjoy a Meal at a Local Restaurant: Piazza San Francesco is home to a variety of restaurants, offering a range of cuisines from Italian to international. A meal in one of the restaurants here is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine.
7. Attend a Performance at the Teatro Metastasio: This theater is located on the east side of the piazza and is home to a variety of performances from opera to theater. Attending a performance here is a great way to experience the city’s cultural life.
8. Explore the Museo Civico: Located in the Palazzo Pretorio, the Museo Civico is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Prato. Here, you can find a variety of artifacts from the city’s past, as well as a variety of artworks.
9. Take a Tour of the Palazzo Comunale: Located at the northern end of the piazza, the Palazzo Comunale is a 14th-century building that was once the home of the local government. Today, the building is open to the public and offers guided tours of its interior.
10. Spend an Evening at the Cinema Teatro Puccini: This theater is located at the southern end of the piazza and is home to a variety of films. Spending an evening here is a great way to relax and enjoy a movie in the heart of the city.
No matter what you choose to do in Piazza San Francesco, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. From exploring the local history to enjoying a meal at a restaurant, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant square.