Pontedera

HISTORY AND MEDIEVAL CHARM IN THE HEART OF VALDERA

Pontedera is positioned in the plain of the Valdera, but has some slight hills in the part that overlooks the hills of Pisa.

The name of the town has ancient origins related to a medieval bridge. The only one in the middle ages allowed people to cross the river for those from Pisa moved towards Florence. The first settlements in the area date back to the Paleolithic, but the town arose around 1163. Pontedera was the scene of many battles until the Renaissance, when it became an important trading hub in the area.

Of its past remain some ancient buildings and some white marble tiles which indicate where stood the gate of the medieval walls.

All historical centre offers some contemporary art installations that can be observed along the charming streets inside.

 

Traditions and Typical products

At Pontedera are celebrated every year in August the two events. The oldest is the Fiera dei Fiaschi e delle Campanelle an event with over 110 years of history where bicycles and vintage cars parade in the territory. The most characteristic is the Palio della Balestra, a reenactment in which representatives of the neighborhoods compete in a race with arrows.

 

Photo Credits [wikimedia.org]