Someone calls it Fortress of Santa Barbara, others Castello dell`Imperatore.

However you call it, the ancient castle, whose construction began in the 13th century, is certainly the sole example of Swabian architecture you can admire during your vacation in Tuscany. As a matter of fact, there is no similar building either in Tuscany or in all central and northern Italy.

Designed by architect Riccardo da Lentini by order of Frederick II of Hohenstaufen, Holy Roman Emperor from 1220 to 1250, the majestic stronghold stands with its eight towers (six with a square and two with a pentagonal basis) right in the centre of the wool town. No other buildings stand inside its wall. During the summer the castle hosts events that attract many tourists to the town.

Another interesting monument is the medieval donjon.

What is it? It is an elevated fortified passageway situated among the houses and apartments in south-eastern Prato. It was built after Florence established its domination over the town of the river Bisenzio with the purpose of allowing Florentine troops to move rapidly in and out the castle in case of riots. Nowadays, apart from hosting art exhibitions, it offers a panoramic view over the town.

These two monuments are not the only "traces" of medieval Prato. You can continue your city tour visiting the 14th-century Palazzo Datini or Palazzo Pretorio, which is the result of the union of three pre-existing tower-houses.