Urban Trekking in the footsteps of Saint Francis of Assisi

On Saturday, October 31, Pistoia is taking part in the 23ʳᵈ National Urban Trekking Day, dedicated this year to the theme of Saint Francis 1226–2026: in search of the essence.

To mark the occasion, a guided tour titled Saint Francis in Pistoia: the Saint’s visit according to tradition is scheduled, as a tour of the historic center focusing on the Franciscan presence and the sites associated with hospitality and pilgrimage.

The tour begins at the Civic Museum, where Nicola Pisano’s relief depicting Saint Francis receiving the stigmata introduces visitors to the tradition of the Saint’s reputed visit to Pistoia.

The tour continues to the San Zeno Cathedral, which is linked to the history of pilgrimages thanks to the relic of Saint James the Greater, and to the Church of San Bartolomeo, with its Romanesque lintel. Along Via di Porta San Marco, visitors will learn about the historic structures that once housed pilgrims and the story of the merchant Attamai, who in 1219 set out on the Fifth Crusade, leaving behind his possessions and his palazzo.

The tour then continues to the Church of Sant’Andrea, with its famous lintel dating from 1167, then concludes at the San Francesco Complex, built on the site where the early Franciscan friars settled. The tour includes the church, cloister and chapter house, adorned with a series of frescoes depicting the life of Saint Francis.

Guided tours begin at 10:00 am and 3:00 pm from the Tourist Information and Welcome Office (IAT) in Piazza del Duomo.

Participation is free but reservations are required. Maximum of 30 people per group.