Located at 1,000 meters above sea level in Pian dei Termini, within the municipality of San Marcello Pistoiese, the Montagna Pistoiese Astronomical Observatory is one of the most captivating places for night sky observation in Tuscany.
Founded in the 1980s thanks to the dedication of a group of enthusiasts, it was inaugurated in 1990 in the presence of Margherita Hack. Its location is ideal: easily accessible, far from light pollution, and sheltered from the winds.
The observatory features two domes for astronomical observations and is also known for contributing to the discovery of two minor planets, “Sanmarcello” and “Lucianotesi.”
In 2015, the “Park of the Stars” was inaugurated — an educational garden enriched with installations by artist Silvio Viola, designed to bring science closer to both children and adults through art.
The observatory hosts educational and outreach activities and is open to the public every Friday and Saturday evening, offering guided tours to explore the secrets of the universe.