Palaia

Are you fond of natural beauty? Do you love to learn about different art and culture? Or just looking for a peaceful getaway? The quaint and quiet little village of Palaia, located in the heart of the province of Pisa is a Tuscan treat for all. Having very few neighboring localities and set high above sea level in the rolling hills, the panoramic views this location provides are fantastic!

Mainly an agricultural zone, Palaia has a deeply rich and colorful history and the true Tuscan culture can be experienced here. Built in medieval times, this village is set around a central square and provides you with the best produce of the region, including wine, olive oil and white truffle. So, whether you are eating traditional cuisines, or roaming through the market, this town will give you a true feel of the Tuscan heritage.

This countryside is preferred by tourists all year around due to its clean fresh air and cultural richness. Although the architecture has remained the same, modern technology and developments have reached this little community and the town has shops, bars, restaurants, banks and post-offices with up-to-date facilities to give you service at its best.

If you wish to see the natural beauty of the countryside, take a walk or ride a horse through the paths and routes around the outskirts of the village. If you wish to see the sights within, take a walking tour. This community is home to many churches like, Pieve di San Martino (St. Martin’s Church), Chiesa di Santa Maria (St Mary’s Church), Chiesa di San Francesco (St. Francis’s Church) and La Chiesa di Sant’Andrea (St. Andrew’s Church).

Some other sites to see within Palaia include Porta Fiorentina (Florentine Gatehouse), Piazza della Repubblica (Republic Square), Fonte dei Fonchioni (Fonchioni Fountain), Porta civica and Torre dell’Orologio (Civic Tower and Clock Tower respectively). The village of Palaia has been accumulating a lot of historic architecture over the years, including palaces and a fortress. However, none of the places are now used for royalty. Most of them are now being used as tourist destinations and public service locations.

The Palazzo del Municipio (i.e. the Town Hall), Palazzo Cecchi (Cecchi Palace, which has now become home to the Tourist Information Center), La Rocca (The Fortress) and the Palazzo Pretorio (Praetorian Palace, which has now been converted to a Public Assistance office); are just some of the fine remnants of architecture that this little town can boast about.

The major attractions near Palaia include tours to wineries, farms and ranches. Some of these locations have actually been developed by their owners into hotels as well. Going for a visit to these locations provides you with a great way to observe the beautiful landscapes surrounding Palaia. Some farms and wineries also offer you fresh produce to taste and tours of their daily routine, which enlighten you regarding the wine-making and farming processes.

If you travel a little distance from Palaia, you can easily reach major international airports, spas and beaches. Palaia is the central point, surrounded on all sides by famous cities and tourist destinations, and with easily accessible transport facilities, it’s very convenient to reach.