COOLT, Tuscany’s first-ever Culture ‘Week,’ kicks off October 9. Celebrating the region’s artistic and culinary treasures could never be contained to just seven days, though: the ‘week’ will continue for 10 full days until the 19, with a celebratory post-closure concert on October 20.
Led by an energetic ‘COOLTEAM’ of 10 young planners and promoters—each in charge of a designated territory—selected regional institutions and businesses are taking part. Theatres, restaurants, libraries, museums and more will be offering special programs, promotional discounts and workshops.
Pisa’s Internet Festival (Oct. 9-12) is one of the largest and most highly anticipated events, along with a preview of December’s BTO (Buy Tourism Online) conference, set for October 15 at Alberese’s Regional Agricultural Agency. In Florence, Palazzo Strozzi has hopped on board: on October 16 at 7pm, a new site-specific installation by contemporary artist Franco Menicagli will be unveiled in the courtyard. The ongoing exhibition Picasso and Spanish Modernity will then be open from 7-11 pm, with free admission for those under 26.
In the province of Prato, Carmignano’s Artimino Archaeological Museum is organizing an ongoing series called Autumn with the Etruscans. In addition to several lectures (in Italian) scheduled throughout the month, visitors can enjoy free guided visits in English on Sunday, October 19 (10:30am-12pm and 4:30-6pm).
Foodies far and wide will have plenty of palate-pleasing options, from sweets at slashed prices (http://theflr.net/op3anr) to discussion-based dinners. Walking tours on a variety of topics will take place from Pienza to Pistoia.
Capping off the excitement will be a Concert for Peace held at Florence’s Teatro Verdi on October 20. Israeli singer Achinoam Nini, better known as Noa, will perform.
For a complete listing of COOLT events, head to http://coolt.toscana.it.
