Unspoiled nature, forests and relaxation
A little piece of paradise opens up between the village trail and the mountain bike trail. Macchia Antonini is a protected natural area at 962 meters above sea level with a truly unique history. Characterized by a centuries-old forest of turkey oaks, some a hundred years old. But also by the greenery of towering beech, fir and sycamore maples. The ideal place to take walks, picnic on the great expanse of the Macchia and enjoy the lush nature.
History
This locality owes its name to the Pistoiese family of Felice Antonini. In the 1700s, in fact, the Grand Duke of Tuscany Pietro Leopoldo put this land of about 200 hectares up for sale . It was bought, in 1778, by Pistoiese Felice Antonini. The estate included a Villa Fattoria and the roads to get there. Upon his death it passed to his son Pellegrino Antonini who bequeathed it to the City of Pistoia. At present, the estate is administered by a charity, the Legato of the same name, established to manage the farm and the Macchia’s woodland heritage.
What to see
The vast expanses of meadows, lush nature and the Macchia Grande Festival, one of the oldest in Tuscany, are the main attractions. Reaching the Macchia through the woods, following a path through the trees, is a wonderful experience. But also be amazed by small unusual corners, such as the glimpses among the trees that open onto a small lake. Also worth visiting is the ancient Chapel of the Macchia erected in 1827, surrounded by fir and chestnut trees. At the Macchia there is also a bar, a restaurant and a riding school. Just before reaching the resort is the small hamlet of Margine di Momigno, surrounded by greenery.
Traditions and festivals
The Macchia Antonini is also home to one of the oldest festivals in Tuscany, the Festa della Macchia Grande. Since 1827, a festival has been held here every year during one of the Sundays closest to August 20 that attracts many tourists, thanks to its street market, food stands and parades in period costume. The festival was established by Felice Antonini’s son in the 1800s in his memory.
