Welcome to the place that embodies the very essence of devotion, the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Pietà. Here, in the beating heart of Prato, an event occurred that indelibly marked the history of this sacred place, leaving an imprint of emotion and wonder.

It was the 26th of April 1616, a day that will remain imprinted forever in the memory of the faithful. The image of the Madonna and Child, placed on a modest tabernacle along a street, became witness to an extraordinary miracle. Tears fell softly from the Virgin's face, while a divine light emanated from her figure, capturing the attention and adoration of all those who approached her. Even Grand Duke Cosimo II, overwhelmed by the wonder of what his eyes saw, decided to honor this sacred place with a church that did justice to the power of that miracle.

Thus it was that the Florentine architect Gherardo Mechini was called to create a one-of-a-kind sanctuary. The structure itself is a jewel of seventeenth-century Marian architecture, immersed in an oasis of greenery. A porch wraps the building on three sides, offering shelter and protection to pilgrims who venture into this place of spirituality. The façade, simple but fascinating, stands gracefully, while a majestic bell tower, dating back to 1771, stands behind it and the bricks tell of centuries of devotion.

Once inside, you will find yourself immersed in an atmosphere of spirituality and timeless beauty. The Latin cross plan extends elegantly, testifying to the influence of the Counter-Reformation and the respect for proportion and sober decorations. The church is surrounded by a warm light, which illuminates the main altar, a masterpiece of polychrome marble and precious stones. At the center of the altar, there is a fresco of the Madonna and Child, attributed to the talented fourteenth-century Florentine painter, Giovanni Bonsi. The sacred image is framed by a canvas depicting God the Father and a glory of angels, while the Christ in Mercy, painted by the seventeenth-century master Mario Balassi, completes this spectacle of faith and beauty that touches the soul of every visitor.