Good morning from Pistoia. Here are six local stories to know on Friday, July 10, bringing together the latest reporting and official city information.
1. Jethro Tull close the 45th Pistoia Blues Festival tonight. The legendary British progressive-rock band, led by Ian Anderson, returns to Piazza del Duomo for the fourth time and brings this year’s main festival programme to a close. The concert is the city’s headline event this evening. Sources: Report Pistoia, La Nazione – Pistoia and Comune di Pistoia.
2. Eurogym turns Pistoia into a European gymnastics hub. More than 5,000 young athletes are arriving for the non-competitive festival, which runs through July 17. Public workshops and city performances will take place at sports centres, parks and Piazza del Duomo, while a special ordinance regulates venues and logistics. Sources: Report Pistoia and Comune di Pistoia.
3. The Blues Market and a packed weekend programme begin. Stalls return to the historic centre today and Saturday, alongside family activities, museum visits and open-air events. Highlights for July 11 include guided outings at Orsigna and Popiglio and a children’s workshop linked to the Ettore Sottsass exhibition. Sources: Report Pistoia and Comune di Pistoia.
4. Temporary city traffic restrictions are in force today. Drivers should look out for route changes linked to the Scarpinata delle Fornaci. A separate ban on traffic and parking will apply on part of Via Pacinotti from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. to allow a crane truck to operate. Advance signs will be posted. Source: Comune di Pistoia.
5. Roadworks affect the Via Lucchese corridor. Resurfacing work between Pistoia and Valdinievole is expected to cause delays over four days, including a full overnight closure. Commuters should allow extra time and check the latest local traffic directions before travelling. Source: Il Tirreno – Pistoia.
6. The Giostra dell’Orso celebrations move into their July programme. After the opening historical parade, attention turns to the July 16 dressing of San Jacopo and the rehearsals, processions and ceremonies leading to the Giostra dell’Orso on July 25. The calendar will bring further evening activity and temporary changes around the historic centre. Source: La Nazione – Pistoia.
This briefing is an original English summary based on reporting by Report Pistoia, Il Tirreno – Pistoia and La Nazione – Pistoia/Montecatini, together with official updates from the Comune di Pistoia. Details may change; consult the linked sources for the latest practical information.