*The garrison public affairs office translates summaries of local news articles for the convenience of non-Italian speaking community members. The information contained in these summaries is originally written by Italian news sources and does not reflect the opinion of U.S. Army Garrison Italy or any of its tenant commands. Direct any questions about the Italian news to the garrison public affairs office.*
Italian News from Camp Darby – December 28, 2025
- Livorno lyric season begins at Goldoni Theatre
- Pisa’s new tourist signs
- A hospital dating back to 200 BC emerges in Tuscany
Livorno lyric season begins at Goldoni Theatre – December 23, LivornoToday
LIVORNO – The show “The Merry Widow” by Franz Lehár will be performed at the Teatro Goldoni Jan. 4, 2026, both at 4 p.m. The operetta is being played for the 120th anniversary of its premiere on Dec. 30, 1905, at Vienna’s Theater a der Wien, which was a major success. a bright and energetic comedy, but one that bears with it the mournful consciousness of the twilight of the then-dominant Habsburg Empire and celebrates the last triumph of the waltz as a metaphor for a dance on the verge of a cliff. Tickets are on sale at the Goldoni box office on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. On performance days, the box office will open two hours before the start of the show. Online sales at ticketone.it; prices from €35 to €43; gallery €20; reduced price for under 35s €20 in all sections. All information is available at www.goldoniteatro.it. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa’s new tourist signs – December 23, PisaToday
PISA – Pisa’s tourist signage system is being upgraded with 125 new signs at areas of interest, 29 directional arrows, and 10 tourist maps at significant visitor destinations like the train station, airport, tower, Pietrasantina parking lot and Sesta Porta. The signage is bilingual (Italian and English), and the welcome message incorporates Chinese. Furthermore, the signage’s height allows the information to be clearly read even by individuals in wheelchairs. The most significant new feature is the inclusion of QR codes in the panels, which allows visitors to access more information about areas of interest via text, photographs, videos and explanations in Italian Sign Language (LIS). (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
A hospital dating back to 200 BC emerges in Tuscany – December 23, Il Tirreno
SIENA – The recent excavation campaign in San Casciano dei Bagni (Siena) adds an unexpected chapter to the story of the famed “rediscovered sanctuary.” According to research undertaken in 2025, a legitimate medical school may have been there in ancient times. It was not just a thermal water therapy facility, but also a research center for the human body, its illnesses and vulnerabilities. Among the discovered materials, one impressed the archaeologists with its precision and scientific value: a clay with a portrayal of internal organs. Such an accurate picture is unprecedented in the ancient world, and specialists believe it demonstrates the presence of an atmosphere in which anatomical studies were practiced and models were created for instructional reasons. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Recent Italian News highlights
San Miniato, the Nativity set route – December 18, TerrediPisa
SAN MINIATO (Pisa) – In San Miniato, Via Angelica is once again decorated with nativity scenes created by residents. The exhibition is part of La Via dei Presepi (The Way of the Nativity Scenes), an initiative involving local businesses and religious institutions. Via Angelica can be accessed from Piazza del Popolo to the left of the Church of San Domenico. Via Angelica owes its name to the old path used by farmers that connected the city to the countryside and is one of the most evocative places in San Miniato. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Events in Pisa during the holidays
PISA – The program of events in the city of Pisa during the Christmas season runs until Jan. 6, 2026. In addition to the big, decorated tree in Piazza XX Settembre, smaller trees and installations will brighten other parts of the city. Numerous Christmas markets will also enliven the city, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, will host 18 kiosks selling handicrafts and presents. Logge dei Banchi will hold a special market with 17 stalls, including a handmade nativity scene and Santa’s House. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Cisanello Hospital in Pisa ranks top for cancer surgery – December 12, Il Tirreno
PISA – With 1,694 thyroid cancer procedures, it rated first in Italy, much ahead of the second-ranked center. Outstanding oncology performance, with a 30-day lung cancer death rate of 0.28 percent (the lowest in Tuscany and compared to a national average of 0.85). Cancer surgery was evaluated on several indicators, all of which resulted in working exceptionally well. Pisa Hospital is ranked second for the number of colon and rectal cancer surgeries, as well as top for thyroid cancer treatments. In terms of renal, pancreatic and stomach cancer procedures, it comes in third. The ranks for lung, breast and prostate cancer are all extremely high. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Terricciola “open wineries” – December 12, TerrediPisa
TERRICCIOLA (Pisa) – Cantine Aperte, (Open Wineries) event, returns at Christmas time to share with wine lovers the joy of tasting wines in combination with seasonal products. Wineries celebrate the magic of the festive season in harmony with the environment: mini courses on sustainability in the vineyard, biodiversity, recycling and waste reduction to raise awareness among adults and children about good practices in the winery through games. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Sales season begins Jan. 3 – December 9, PisaToday
TUSCANY – The 2026 winter sales will begin on Saturday, Jan. 3, the first working day before Epiphany, according to a specific resolution passed by the Regional Council of Tuscany on Dec. 1. This rule upholds the guidelines that the regions decided upon to preserve competitiveness and standardize dates. The Economic Development Commission and trade associations also supported the decision, which calls for a 60-day sales period that ends on March 3, 2026. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Calci dinosaur exhibit at the museum – December 9, TerrediPisa
CALCI (Pisa) – The “Dinosaurs” exhibition, which has more than 20 life-size static and dynamic models, will be on display at the Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa until Feb. 15, 2026. In a breathtaking display held on the Calci Museum grounds, the biggest reptiles ever to have existed come back to life from the depths of the Mesozoic. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Usigliano nativity scenes night guided tour – December 9, TerrediPisa
USIGLIANO DI LARI (Pisa) – Guided night tours at the Museum of Nativity Scenes and Agricultural Activities in Usigliano di Lari: Claudio Terreni, the museum's founder and creator of the nativity scenes, leads guests on an exploration of the moving rooms. Tours are free to enter on Jan. 8, 15 and 22, 2026, at 9:15 p.m. It is located in the wine cellar, oil mill and cellars of the Vecchia Fattoria Castelli in the quaint little village of Usigliano di Lari. A minimum of eight participants is required. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Bientina Nativity scene treasure hunt – December 5, TerrediPisa
BIENTINA (Pisa) – The second edition of the “Nativity Scene Treasure Hunt” returns to Bientina, transforming the small town into a widespread journey of creativity and tradition. Each registered nativity scene becomes a stop on the trail, helping to build a map that visitors can follow during the holidays. The nativity scene must be displayed in a place visible to the public until Jan. 6, 2026. Check out www.prolocobientina.it for details about holiday related events. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pontedera Christmas in art– December 2, TerrediPisa
PONTEDERA (Pisa) – Pontedera is preparing to celebrate the Christmas holidays with a rich program of shows and events for adults and children: a journey through art and wonder, with sculptures and a special tribute to Pinocchio. The atrium of Palazzo Stefanelli, the town hall, Piazza Cavour and roundabouts are just some of the locations hosting the works of artist Giuliano Tomaino. Artist’s creations will be displayed in the town center, during Christmas time. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa Teatro Verdi opera program – November 28, TerrediPisa
PISA – The Verdi Theatre in Pisa, one of Italy’s finest traditional theaters and a prime example of 19th-century theater design, is where the opera season usually begins. Below is the program for the coming months. Carmen: Jan. 23, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. and Jan. 25 at 3:30 p.m. The Turn of the Screw: Feb. 27, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. and March 1 at 3:30 p.m. L’Elisir d’amore: March 27, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. and March 29 at 3:30 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Volterra guided tour to salt mine – November 28, TerrediPisa
VOLTERRA (Pisa) – A journey into the world of salt with guided tours of the former State Saltworks in Saline di Volterra, where the purest salt in Italy is produced: the salt of Volterra. The visit includes a stop to the emporium where you can discover the products and the various uses of salt: from salt pearls to mother water for beauty and body care, up to the tasty salt beer. Opening hours are Friday from 2 to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 to noon and from 2 to 5 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa guided tour of Egyptian collection – November 28, TerrediPisa
PISA – The Edda Bresciani Egyptian Collections are part of the University of Pisa Museum System. Note that admission is free on the first Sunday of the month. info.collezioni-egittologiche@sma.unipi.it (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa monument restoration approved and commissioned – November 25, Pisatoday
PISA – The Municipality of Pisa has approved the executive project and commissioned the repair of the Niccola Pisano monument in Piazza del Carmine. The intervention aims to restore a major piece of the city’s creative history in need of urgent repair. Salvino Salvini created the sculpture in 1862 from white Carrara marble. It shows architect and sculptor Niccola Pisano, a master of 13th-century Italian art, dressed in a cloak and carrying a chisel and mallet, symbols of his craft. The renovation is expected to take approximately three months and will not significantly affect traffic flow in the square. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Lucca dresses up for the holidays – November 25, Il Tirreno
LUCCA – The celebrations opened with the lighting of the tree in Piazza San Michele, the unveiling of the nativity scene at Palazzo Pretorio, and the launch of the French Christmas Village in Piazza Napoleone, where the facade of Palazzo Ducale transforms into a vibrant canvas of colors and artistic projections. Adding to the magic, the refurbished Ice Park was revealed on the city walls in front of the Caffè delle Mura: a panoramic and larger skating rink nestled among illuminated trees with views of the city center. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pontedera Piaggio Museum special opening – November 25, TerrediPisa
PONTEDERA (Pisa) – The Piaggio Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, on the second and fourth Sundays of the month (closed on Mondays) Free visit: the duration is 60 minutes. A voluntary contribution is appreciated. Visit without a guide for a maximum of 40 people. A guided tour is 60 minutes with a voluntary contribution of €5 per person. Guided tour for a maximum of 10 people. Admire the “Vespa” from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The rooms of the Piaggio Museum house precious pieces of pre-war railway and aeronautical production, the rich and admired Vespa collection, the collection of Piaggio two-, three- and four-wheeler products (Ape, Porter and mopeds) and the extraordinary collection of products linked to specifically motorbike and sports history of the Group’s brands including Aprilia, Gilera and Moto Guzzi, which together have collected the marvelous Palmares of 104 World Titles in the various motorcycling sports, from Supermoto to MotoGP, from Trial to SBK. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Holiday season in Pisa
PISA – The Ferris wheel will be in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II during the Christmas season until Jan. 6, 2026. The Ferris wheel stands 22 meters tall and contains 16 cabins, which are fully illuminated with 6,000 LED lights. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa province introduces three new intercity buses to improve services – November 18, PisaToday
PISA – In January 2026, three new public transport vehicles will join the Province of Pisa’s fleet, mostly for low-demand extra-urban services in the Valdarno, Valdicecina and Extraurbana Pisa districts (Fauglia, Orciano and Crespina Lorenza). (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa to San Giuliano roundabout to be resurfaced – November 14, PisaToday
PISA – The CNR roundabout and the roads leading to it are being resurfaced on the border between Pisa and San Giuliano Terme, at the intersection of Via di Pratale, Strada Provinciale Vicarese, Via Moruzzi, Via Volpi and Via Alfieri. The work is being done at night to reduce traffic impact. The new roundabout has a diameter of 19 meters, compared to 9.5 meters for the previous one, and includes approximately 200 square meters of green space and 90 square meters of resin-coated asphalt that can be driven over. The asphalting covers approximately 2,500 square meters, while the cycle and pedestrian path on the San Giuliano Terme side covers 130 square meters and the CNR sidewalk, made of interlocking blocks, covers 230 square meters. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Tuscany, winter tires or snow chains are now required – November 14, LivornoToday
TUSCANY – On Saturday, Nov. 15, the obligation to carry snow chains or winter tires takes effect. The provision will be in effect until Apr. 15, 2026, and it will apply to all state highways and motorway junctions operated in Tuscany. Mopeds and motorbikes are exempt from use and may only operate in the absence of snowfall and ice on the road. The requirement is displayed on the road by specific vertical signs and is also valid outside of the specified periods, in the event of snowfall or ice formation. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa Palazzo Blu hosts “Belle epoque” exhibition – November 14, VisitTuscany
PISA – The exhibition “Belle Époque” will be held at Palazzo Blu through April 6, 2026. On display there will be works from Italian and international institutions, including the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Uffizi Galleries, the Capodimonte Museum and Royal Park, as well as private collections accessible to the public for the first time. The exhibition is divided into thematic sections that retrace the salient moments of that period: from the political upheavals of 1870 to the affirmation of modern Paris. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 10 a.m.–8 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
BientinAntiquaria offers Tuscan tradition
BIENTINA (Pisa) – “BientinAntiquaria” is one of the historic events of the Tuscan antiques tradition; it takes place every fourth Sunday of the month in Piazza Martiri della Libertà and adjacent streets from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. With around a hundred exhibitors, the event consolidates itself as a point of reference for the many enthusiasts looking for antiques; rarities; curiosities; modern antiques; vintage and collectibles.
At the same time, the Pieve Museum is open in the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Since the 18th century, the remains of St. Valentine the martyr (patron saint of Bientina) have been located here. The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 3:30 to 7 p.m. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa airport, new terminal work in progress – September 16, Il Tirreno
PISA – After extensive work on the foundations, the pillars of the structure have been completed. These not only define the perimeter of the building but also begin to give a “face” to what will be the terminal of the near future. By the first half of 2027, a modern and much more functional terminal will be completed. This will guarantee an increase in passenger capacity, estimated at seven million per year. The overall project involves three phases of renovation. After the new structure has been built, work will move to the current arrivals terminal, where the ground floor and first floor will be joined by a new vertical link, a new VIP lounge, and a passport control hall, before finally moving on to the current departures terminal. The terminal will increase in size from the current 39,500 square meters to 50,600 square meters. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Beertreck in Calci – July 11, PisaToday
CALCI (Pisa) – The trek begins in Calci, traveling through narrow streets with glimpses of old mansions and gardens. The perspective changes as you ascend, and you can see the settlements below and the Verruca hill. Arriving on the easy dirt road, the walk leads through olive orchards and mills before climbing up the opposite side to La Staffetta Brewery, where there will be a dinner with beer and some chatting by the stream. After dinner, return to the starting point. Reservation is requested at https://www.azimut-treks.it/beertrek-val-graziosa-calci. Here are some details: length is six km; height difference 200 mt; easy difficulty; max number of participants is 20; minimum age: eight years old; maximum of two dogs 2; contact guide. Details will be provided upon participation confirmation. Participation fee is € 30 for adults. The ticket includes environmental hiking guide service and dinner with medium beer, cold cuts and vegetarian cold pasta. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Beach resorts open for winter season – September 30, Il Tirreno
LIVORNO – Beach resorts in Livorno are preparing for the fall and winter season, with Tirreno, Lido, Roma and Rex offering extended access and services. Lido opens Oct. 4, operating weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with free admission, sunbed and umbrella rentals, and a bar and self-service restaurant. Tirreno will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. between Oct. 1 and April 30. Roma’s gates will open on weekends, with restaurant service for lunch and dinner on Saturdays and lunch only on Sundays. Winter passes include hot showers: €250 at Roma and €100–€300 at Rex, depending on duration. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Pisa Botanical Garden offers guided tours – June 20, TerrediPisa
PISA – On the third Saturday of the month, the Botanical Garden and Museum of the University of Pisa offers Botanical Saturday, a guided tour dedicated to its plant collections, a unique heritage that changes with the seasons. Every first Sunday of the month, entrance to the Botanical Garden and Museum is free. Founded in 1543, it is the first university botanical garden in the world. Originally built on the banks of the Arno River, it was moved to its current location in 1591 and then gradually expanded to its current size of about two hectares. It houses plants from the five continents: succulents from the African and American deserts; aromatic plants from the Mediterranean maquis; species from the Tuscan marshes; numerous centuries-old trees and many others. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Mercatale, local food market in San Miniato – June 13, TerrediPisa
SAN MINIATO – The third Sunday of the month, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Mercatale takes place under the Loggiati di San Domenico; the event is a “zero km” market of agricultural products. For 10 years, farmers and producers in the countryside around San Miniato have been setting up a market where they can sell the fruits of their labor directly to consumers. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Livorno is the cheapest town for pizza – May 12, Il Tirreno
LIVORNO – Consumers in Livorno spend less money on pizza and drinks than anywhere else in Italy, at €8.75 per dinner. As a result, it is the most affordable meal in the country. The cost of what essentially defines the Made in Italy around the world has risen by 18.3 percent in the last six years, reaching an average of €12.14 per person. Reggio Emilia is the city with the highest pizza prices, with an average dinner at a pizzeria costing around €17.58. Siena, on the other hand, ranks second, with an average price of €17.24 for a pizza and a drink. This is followed by Macerata (€16.25). Of the 59 provinces analyzed, seven have an average spending of more than €14 with drink. After Livorno, the least expensive destinations are Reggio Calabria (€9.15), Pescara (€9.37) and Catanzaro (€9.96). The survey states that these are the only cities where you can pay less than €10. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Five hidden gems for a day trip in Tuscany – April 17, Il Tirreno
TUSCANY – Here are five hidden gems in Tuscany for a peaceful getaway suggested by blogger Riccardo Franchini:
Val di Merse, immerse yourself in silent woods and discover hidden churches. Ideal for off-the-grid walks, fresh air and reconnecting with nature.
Montegiovi, this tiny village perched in the Val d'Orcia offers tranquility and breathtaking views. Perfect for escaping noise, finding inspiration, and enjoying the company of welcoming locals.
Isola Santa, this village nestled in the Apuan Alps overlooks an emerald lake, creating a surreal and peaceful atmosphere. Disconnect from technology and find solace in the beauty of your surroundings.
Poggio di Montieri, located in the heart of Grosseto’s hinterland, this ancient ridge is ideal for getting lost in nature with a loved one or finding solitude. Wake up to stunning views and the simple pleasures of life.
Badia Prataglia, this enchanting village lies within the Casentino Forests National Park. Explore ancient beech and fir forests, discover hidden paths and embrace the tranquility of this magical place. Each destination offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and nature. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Livorno church seeks revival
LIVORNO – The Chiesa dell'Apparizione (Church of the Apparition) in Livorno, Italy, closed for 19 years, is seeking to reopen. The Vallombrosan monks who own the church have launched a fundraising campaign to restore the building, which holds significant historical and religious importance as the site where, according to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to a shepherd boy in 1345. The initial fundraising goal is €300,000 to repair the damaged roof, with a total of 600,000 euros needed for a complete restoration of the church and adjacent rectory. Don Luca Giustarini, prior of the Montenero Abbey, is appealing to the Tuscan community and beyond for donations. Plans for the restored church include resuming mass celebrations, creating a parking area for pilgrims, establishing a retreat space in the rectory and housing seminarians who will care for the church. Donations can be made by contacting santamariadimontenero@gmail.com. A committee of monks and laypeople will oversee the transparent management of the funds. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
Tap&tap service available on regional trains
LIVORNO – The new rapid ticket purchasing channel for regional trains in Tuscany has arrived. The "Tap&Tap" system is operational as of Dec. 19, and it will enable passengers to save time when purchasing the voucher by allowing contactless payment cards to be passed straight from the station’s specific validators. The system is currently in operation at the 16 stops on the Florence-Pisa-Livorno route. To purchase a ticket, simply bring your contactless payment card, smartphone or enabled smartwatches close to the readers located in the validators at the departure station and then perform the same operation at the arrival station. With the same card, it is possible to purchase a ticket for only one adult passenger (ordinary adult fare in second class), while at the checkpoint on board the train it will be sufficient to communicate the last four numbers of the payment card used. (Summary by Chiara Mattirolo)
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