Overview
Prato is a lively city, which has been able to integrate elements of its ancient origins from the Etruscans, through to the Middle Ages into its contemporary age.
It is a melting pot of cultures, in recent years it has increased its population by opening up to different ethnic groups that coexist in full integration. Famous throughout the world for its textile production, active since medieval times, Prato plays a very important role in the world of fashion. Its center is rich in history, you can visit the Emperor's Castle, built by order of Frederick II of Swabia, the only example of Frederick architecture in central-northern Italy.
Piazza Duomo houses the Cathedral of Santo Stefano where the Donatello and Michelozzo Pulpit stands out at the right end of the facade. Inside there are splendid frescoes by Filippo Lippi. Other works by these extraordinary artists are kept in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. Wandering through the center you can visit Palazzo Datini and Palazzo Pretorio, the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Carceri by Giuliano da Sangallo, the churches of San Francesco, San Domenico, Sant'Agostino and the Spirito Santo.
Samples dating back from the 5th century to the present day are preserved in the Textile Museum. The building that houses it, is a monument of industrial archeology, the only 19th century production complex still existing within the medieval walls .
The surrounding area is populated by historic villages erected on settlements from the Roman era. It is an area of ancient culture and traditions, a varied world to discover.
