Diocesan Museum Pescia
Discover Renaissance masterpieces like Raphael's unfinished work and della Robbia's vibrant altarpiece within Pescia's historic Cathedral.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more contemplation.
Diocesan Museum Pescia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more contemplation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Renaissance masterpieces like Raphael's unfinished work and della Robbia's vibrant altarpiece within Pescia's historic Cathedral.
"See Raphael's 'Madonna del Baldacchino' and discover Pescia's rich artistic heritage with a combined ticket. "
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
A combined ticket grants access to multiple museums, offering great value.
🗣️ Language Support
Guides are helpful, but Italian knowledge enhances the experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Raphael's Unfinished Masterpiece
Cathedral of Pescia
See Raphael's 'Madonna del Baldacchino,' a significant unfinished work, displayed with its copy.
Della Robbia Altarpiece
Cathedral of Pescia
Admire the glazed terracotta altarpiece of the Madonna and Child with Saints by Luca and Andrea della Robbia.
Gipsoteca Libero Andreotti
Palazzo del Podestà
Explore casts by sculptor Libero Andreotti in this fascinating museum.
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Planning Your Visit
Combine Your Visit
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Insider Tips
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🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
A combined ticket grants access to multiple museums, offering great value.
🗣️ Language Support
Guides are helpful, but Italian knowledge enhances the experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Pescia's Charm
Don't miss nearby churches like San Francesco and Piazza Grande.
⏳ Flexible Visits
Tickets allow visits to other museums on different days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combined Ticket Value
A combined ticket grants access to multiple museums, offering great value.
🗣️ Language Support
Guides are helpful, but Italian knowledge enhances the experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Pescia's Charm
Don't miss nearby churches like San Francesco and Piazza Grande.
⏳ Flexible Visits
Tickets allow visits to other museums on different days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Diocesan Museum and Cathedral for their artistic treasures, particularly Raphael's 'Madonna del Baldacchino' and the della Robbia altarpiece. The 'Uffizi Diffusi' initiative is a highlight, offering a unique viewing experience. While the Italian language can be a barrier for some, guides are generally helpful, and the combined ticket offers excellent value for exploring multiple sites.
"Beautiful cathedral. Currently hosting the return of an (unfinished) Raffaello painting - fabulous - on show with it's 'copy'. Also, very informative tour of the library/archives- an ability to understand Italian would be an advantage, but the guide was very helpful with adding information in English."
Ally B
"I visited the Cathedral of Pescia for an initiative by the Uffizi, called Uffizi Diffusi, which aims to bring the masterpieces it holds in its vast "archive" back to the area, where they were originally conceived and placed. In this case, it is an unfinished masterpiece by Raphael, the Madonna del Baldacchino, which, brought to Pescia by order of Baldassare Turini, was placed in the family chapel and remained there until 1697, the year in which it was sold to Ferdinando de' Medici and moved to the Pitti Palace. It is said that to avoid resentment and protests from the people of Pescia, who were particularly devoted to the Madonna, it was moved at night... incognito. The masterpiece was replaced by a copy by Pier Dandini, also on display, so that the differences can be understood. I won't say anything about the "surprises" that comparing the two paintings might reveal... because there are young, well-prepared guides who can recount the history and anecdotes to those who decide to visit. With the same ticket, in addition to completing the visit to the Cathedral with its masterpieces, including the glazed terracotta altarpiece of the Madonna and Child with Saints by Luca and Andrea della Robbia, you can visit the Gipsoteca, with casts by Libero Andreotti, in the Palazzo del Podestà and the Civic Museum in Palazzo Galeotti. For those unfamiliar with Pescia, rich in monuments, I recommend a visit to the Church of San Francesco (of note is the panel painting "Saint Francis and Stories from His Life" by Bonaventura Berlinghieri, said to be the first surviving iconography depicting the stories of the saint); the Church of Saints Stephen and Nicholas; and Piazza Grande with the Palazzo del Vicario and the Church of the Madonna di Piè di Piazza."
Michele De Gruttola
"The diocese is truly beautiful. I went to see Raphael's work and discovered that you actually have to pay for all three museums, meaning you can't visit them all at once.
Fortunately, you can also visit the other two museums at a later date.
It's definitely worth it."
Anto Nella
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Diocesan Museum is located within the Cathedral of Pescia. Pescia is accessible by train from Florence or Lucca. From the train station, it's a pleasant walk to the city center and the Cathedral.
Parking can be challenging in the historic center of Pescia. It's recommended to use public parking areas outside the immediate vicinity of the Cathedral and walk.
Yes, Pescia has a train station with connections to major Tuscan cities. Buses also serve the area, making it accessible without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission typically involves a combined ticket that grants access to the Cathedral, the Gipsoteca, and the Civic Museum. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official website or inquire locally.
Booking in advance is generally not required for the standard visit, but it's advisable during special exhibitions or peak tourist seasons to secure your entry.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may differ for each of the associated museums. It's recommended to check the official website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the combined ticket often allows you to visit the different museums included on separate days, offering flexibility for your exploration of Pescia.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Inquire at the ticket office or check the official website for eligibility and details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A visit to the Cathedral and its associated exhibits can take 1-2 hours. If you plan to visit all included museums, allocate at least half a day.
Accessibility can vary within historic buildings. While some areas might be accessible, it's best to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific facilities for visitors with mobility issues.
Yes, guided tours are often available, particularly for special exhibitions like Raphael's work. Guides can provide valuable insights, though an understanding of Italian is beneficial.
Photography policies can differ. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in many areas, but it's always best to check for signage or ask staff for clarification.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and contemplative, with the scent of incense adding to the spiritual ambiance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically no dining facilities directly within the museum or Cathedral. However, Pescia's historic center offers numerous trattorias and cafes nearby.
Pescia is known for its Tuscan cuisine. Look for local specialties like 'tagliatelle al tartufo' (pasta with truffle) or 'cinghiale' (wild boar) if in season.
The streets surrounding Piazza Grande and the Cathedral are lined with restaurants offering traditional Tuscan dishes. Ask locals for their favorite spots.
📸 📸 Photography
The Raphael painting and the della Robbia altarpiece are prime subjects. The Cathedral's architecture itself offers beautiful photographic potential.
Flash photography is generally prohibited inside museums and churches to protect the artworks. Always check for signs or ask permission.
Natural light filtering through the windows can create a beautiful ambiance. Early mornings or late afternoons might offer softer lighting conditions.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical sites due to privacy and safety regulations. Check local drone laws before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the visual aspects of the della Robbia altarpiece, known for its vibrant glazed terracotta. If visiting with younger children, keep the visit concise and perhaps combine it with exploring the more open spaces of Piazza Grande or a leisurely walk through Pescia's charming streets.
🏛️ Art History Enthusiasts
Beyond the Cathedral, exploring the Gipsoteca Libero Andreotti and the Civic Museum provides a broader understanding of local artistic contributions. Don't miss the early iconography of Saint Francis in the Church of San Francesco. Pescia offers a deep dive into Tuscan art and history, often overlooked by larger tourist crowds.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Contemplatives
Take your time to absorb the details of the artworks, especially Raphael's piece and the della Robbia creation. The ability to visit the included museums on different days provides flexibility for a relaxed, unhurried exploration of Pescia's cultural offerings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Raphael's 'Madonna del Baldacchino'
This exhibition is part of the 'Uffizi Diffusi' initiative, which aims to bring masterpieces from the Uffizi Gallery back to their regions of origin. The display includes a copy by Pier Dandini, allowing visitors to compare the original with its replica and appreciate the nuances of Raphael's technique. The presence of this unfinished work offers a unique glimpse into the artist's creative process and the history of art patronage in the region.
Experiencing this unfinished masterpiece provides a profound connection to Renaissance art history. The context of its return to Pescia, even temporarily, adds a layer of historical narrative that enriches the visitor's understanding and appreciation of the artwork.
Exploring Pescia's Rich Artistic Heritage
For those interested in early Renaissance art, a visit to the Church of San Francesco is highly recommended. It houses the panel painting 'Saint Francis and Stories from His Life' by Bonaventura Berlinghieri, considered one of the earliest surviving iconographies depicting the saint's life. Other notable churches include the Church of Saints Stephen and Nicholas, and the area around Piazza Grande, featuring the Palazzo del Vicario and the Church of the Madonna di Piè di Piazza.
Immersing yourself in Pescia's artistic landscape offers a comprehensive cultural experience. The town's rich history is palpable in its architecture and the artworks scattered throughout its churches and museums, making it a rewarding destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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