Peccioli: The Stunning Tuscan Town Even Italians Don’t Know
Peccioli, the winner of this year’s national “Borgo dei Borghi” competition, is a hidden gem that blends its medieval past with an eye-catching contemporary art scene and innovative technology. For the past 11 years, Italy’s state-owned television station, Rai, has held a contest to find “Il Borgo dei Borghi,” or the “Village of Villages.” This competition aims to raise the visibility of small but captivating Italian towns that might otherwise go unnoticed. Peccioli, the winner of this year’s competition, is much more than just a pretty place.
Discovering Hidden Treasures
“The purpose of Il Borgo dei Borghi is identifying these places that I think sometimes even Italians don’t know about,” says Kathy McCabe, the host of the “Dream of Italy” TV show, speaking to the BBC. Each year, one town or village is nominated from each of Italy’s 20 regions. Local residents create videos showcasing their village’s unique history, traditions, and artistic heritage. Viewers then vote for their favorite place, and the finalists are chosen by a combination of votes and a three-person “jury of experts” connected to Italy’s environment, history, and tourism industry.
A Medieval Town with a Modern Twist
Peccioli, located just outside the well-known city of Pisa, is perched atop a Tuscan hill and surrounded by vineyards, wheat fields, and olive groves. With a population of 5,000, the town dates back to medieval times and is characterized by its warren of old brick buildings, narrow streets, and alleyways. The centerpiece of Peccioli is the soaring 12th-century belltower, San Verano. While the village remains rooted in its medieval past, it has embraced modern public art, transforming Peccioli’s present.
One of the village’s most striking sites is the Palazzo Senza Tempo, or “Timeless Palace.” This 14th-century building has been renovated to seamlessly incorporate modern elements such as a skylight, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a panoramic terrace. It serves as the cultural hub of the town, representing the past, present, and future.
Trash to Art: Peccioli’s Transformation
Peccioli’s transformation from an unknown medieval town to a destination known for its blend of modern art and history came about through an unlikely source: trash. In the 1990s, in response to changes in refuse regulations, Peccioli’s leaders proposed opening up their advanced waste management systems to other towns across the region. The income generated from waste management was then reinvested into the community, funding stunning modern art installations and sustainable technology initiatives.
Walking through the alleyways of Peccioli is like taking a trip around the world through its art. The village is adorned with eye-catching art installations, including the Giants of Peccioli, enormous human sculptures by Polish artist Miroslaw Balka that seem to emerge from the landscape. Another notable art project is “Endless Sunset” by Italian artist Patrick Tuttofuoco, which decorates a walkway connecting the historic center with newer areas of the town.
Peccioli is also home to the Museum of Contemporary Art in the Open Air (MACCA), which opened in 2023. This art gallery houses over 600 contemporary art pieces from artists around the world.
Innovation and Sustainability
Beyond its art scene, Peccioli is at the forefront of technology and sustainability initiatives. The village provides free car sharing for its residents and employs robots for waste collection and shopping assistance for elderly or disabled individuals. These technological advancements have made Peccioli feel like something out of science fiction.
The town’s mayor has set an ambitious goal of reducing Peccioli’s carbon footprint to 0% in the coming years. Ongoing research is exploring the possibility of transforming waste materials into construction materials, further pushing Peccioli into the future while preserving its rich past.
Peccioli is a testament to the beauty and potential of lesser-known Italian towns. With its blend of history, contemporary art, and sustainable initiatives, this Tuscan gem is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience.
