Pietrasanta (Tuscany)

Pietrasanta is a town on the coast of northern Tuscany in Italy, in the province of Lucca. Pietrasanta is part of Versilia, on the last foothills of the Apuan Alps, about 32 kilometres (20 mi) north of Pisa. The town is located 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) off the coast, where the 'frazione' of Marina di Pietrasanta is located. The town has Roman origins and part of the Roman wall still exists. Main sights are the Cathedral of St. Martin, the Sant'Agostino church, now seat of art exhibitions, the Gothic Civic Tower, the Column and Fountain of the Marzocco (16th century). The area, like most of Tuscany in general, has long enjoyed the patronage of artists. Pietrasanta grew to importance during the 15th century, mainly due to its connection with marble. Michelangelo was the first sculptor to recognize the beauty of the local stone.