Pratolino Park draws nature lovers and Musart Festival fans

Filled with fountains, sculptures and surprises, the park was intended to blend art, nature and history to delight visitors, which it has done for centuries.

Recognized as a UNESCO heritage site since 2013, one of the park’s most well-known features is the monumental Colossus of the Apennines by Giambologna, a dramatic giant who emerges from the water while hiding a secret room.

Part of the complex of Villa Demidoff, the estate in Vaglia was purchased in 1568 by Grand Duke Francesco I de’ Medici, who commissioned Buontalenti to convert it into a villa. It was later abandoned by Ferdinand III and Leopoldo II of Lorraine before being demolished, and the park was restored in traditional English style.

The Musart Festival, taking place from June 28 to July 26, adds further incentive to spend time in the stunning setting. The highly anticipated music programme transforms the park into an open-air stage, delivering top-class performances by national and international artists.

Catch a sunset while singing songs, or soak up the sunshine with your favourite artist on stage, taking your pick from the programme that features names like Ben Harper, Mannarino, Alfa, Luca Carboni and the choir and orchestra of the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, who will give an unmissable performance of Carmina Burana, conducted by Lorenzo Fratini.

From pop and rock to classical and experimental, the festival, now in its 11th edition, appeals to a wide audience and encourages attendees to absorb the atmosphere of the historic park that makes the series all the more special.

Guided tours of the park’s most impressive features add to the occasion, and shuttle buses organized by Autolinee Toscane ensure easy access.

The main supporter is Fondazione CR Firenze, with the support of the Tuscany Region, the Metropolitan City of Florence, the Mountain Union of the Municipalities of Mugello, the Municipality of Vaglia and the collaboration with Toscana Promozione Turistica and Autolinee Toscane.

Artistic direction is by Stefano Sardini, and the festival also receives the support of ChiantiBanca, Unicoop, Publiacqua, Sammontana, Vignaioli del Morellino di Scansano, Findomestic and Prinz.