Since the Middle Ages Prato’s economy was founded on the textile production of wool. Everything started longs ago on the banks of the Bisenzio river to the North of Prato city centre. Thank to creation of a weir to exploit the energy of the river and the 53 kilometers of millstreams crossing the city center, the number of textile mills built rose dramatically, from one in 1033 to 66 in 1296.
Textile mills are woven into the landscape of Prato, they are essential to its identity, history and culture.
This experience starts with the visit of the “Cavalciotto” medieval weir, a key component of the complex water system.
A couple of steps away from the above mentioned weir, a stunning example of urban regeneration, an ancient mill, also known as Abatoni, has been converted to residential use.
This experience offers something unique, the opportunity to admire the textile mill of Coiano (la gualchiera di Coiano), a perfectly preserved gem of industrial archeology still housing textile machinery dating back to the Industrial Revolution.
This tour follows the Bisenzio river and ends with the visit of the Textile museum, an other amazing example of urban regeneration.
Please note: Tour Duration: 3 hours
Entrance fee for Textile Museum is 8 Euro per personper person (children until 7 are free, children 11-17 are Euro 5 with valid ID showing age) to be paid directly at the museum entrance.
I will pre-book skip-the-line, with a designated entrance time for you for the exact number and age in your party as written by you.
Important:
The Textile Museum is closed on Mondays, as well as on Sunday mornings 25th, January 1st and May 1st.
