At the centre of a maze of narrow streets whose names - Via dei Fabbri (blacksmiths), Via degli Orafi (goldsmiths), Via del Lastrone (a big stone on which fishes on sale were displayed), Via del Cacio (a kind of cheese) - are witnesses to the activities that were carried on in this corner of Pistoia historic centre, opens Piazza della Sala.

What can be defined Pistoia`s business heart is then situated less than a hundred metres from the cathedral dedicated to San Zeno, in the shadow of many historical palaces (if you are looking for accommodation in Tuscany, you could take them seriously into consideration). The square has hosted a fruit and vegetable market since the Middle Ages and nowadays it regularly hosts also various fairs devoted to local products and craft.

At its centre stands the so-called "Pozzo del Leoncino", which has a particular history. The traders who worked in the square used to throw their wastes in the 15th-century well. In the early 16th century, the well (which had already undergone several renovation works) was decorated with a "marzocco", the lion symbol of Florence, with a paw laid over Pistoia`s coat of arms. The message was clear: Florence had established its dominion over the "city of enchanted stone".

Last but not least, Piazza della Sala is also a nightlife destination and from 7.00 pm the surrounding streets crowd with young people.