Bietina

Located to the east of Pisa near Cascina, Bietina is a small town with a long history. The first record of it was documented in 793, when land was conceded to the Bishop of Lucca to establish a parish there. It dates much further back, however, with evidence of Etruscan and Roman presence in the area.

The spare facade of the church of Santa Maria Assunta hides a full-blown Baroque interior that was redone in 1627, with a riot of decoration and paintings to behold. The Museo di Arte Sacra (Sacred Art Museum) houses a treasure trove of religious arts and crafts, while the Etruscan Museum contains ancient artifacts from the Etruscan and Roman civilizations here, that were found during an archeological expedition in the 1950s.

The town sits at the base of Monte Pisano, a natural wonderland of forests and geologic formations, sprinkled with ancient fortifications and trails that lead through olive groves, woods and valleys. Views extend down to the sea.

Bietina is famous for its Carnevale celebrations, with masquerade parties and allegorical skits. They also hold a Palio event every third Sunday of July. The Medieval-type horse race takes place with costumes and regalia in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele.