Rocca di Carmignano

History

The fortress is first mentioned in 998 in a document of Otto III that gave its ownership to the bishop of Pistoia. Because of its strategic position it was contested among Pistoia, Florence and Prato. It withstood a siege in 1154, was destroyed by the Florentines in 1228, passed to Pistoia (1315-1324) and was taken by Castruccio Castracani until 1328, then returning to Florence. From 1343 it has been definitively Florentine.

What to see

Few stretches of the medieval walls remain, partly rebuilt, such as the Campano with its bell tower and clock, and at the centre the Maschio della Rocca. The municipality bought it in 1990 and uses it as an exhibition space and for events. One climbs on foot from San Michele, where Pontormo’s Visitation is kept.

Practical information

• Address: Via del Castello 1, Carmignano (PO). Tel. 055 8712468.
• Hours: one website reports Saturday and Sunday 14-17, but advises checking. We have no reliable sources: ask the Municipality of Carmignano. Tickets: we have no sources.

Page under review: practical information should always be checked with the managing body before your visit.

Sources: VisitTuscany, Parco Archeologico di Carmignano, Museionline.