The terracotta frieze was commissioned to Santi Buglioni in 1525 to commemorate the hospital's charitable work.
The hospital takes its name from the 'Ceppo' (stump), an alms box used for donations to the infirmary.
Pistoia Sotterranea runs for approximately 650 meters beneath the hospital and along the ancient Brana stream.
The museum houses a rare, preserved 18th-century anatomical wax model collection.
The hospital was established in 1277 and continued to serve as a public medical facility until the late 20th century.
The facade's blue and white glazed colors were created using the Della Robbia technique, known for its extreme durability.
The Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo is housed within an active medical facility founded in the 13th century, famous for its 16th-century terracotta frieze by Santi Buglioni. The building originally functioned as a hospital and features an exterior facade decorated with glazed reliefs illustrating the Seven Acts of Mercy. Visitors can explore the historical anatomical theater, which remains one of the few preserved in Italy. The museum complex also encompasses the Pistoia Underground (Pistoia Sotterranea), a route tracing the city's ancient canal system beneath the hospital. Exhibits detail the evolution of surgical instruments, medical diagnostics, and the history of healthcare in Pistoia from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. The site preserves original surgical equipment, documents, and historical medical artifacts. It remains an active hub for cultural preservation in the historic center of Pistoia.
The exterior portico provides the best lighting and angle to photograph the high-relief terracotta frieze.
Book the guided tour for the Pistoia Underground in advance, as access is restricted to official groups.
Check if your ticket covers both the medical museum galleries and the subterranean water tunnels.
Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes for the underground portion of the tour, as surfaces can be damp.
Do not attempt to enter the underground sections independently; they are strictly guide-access only.
Closed on certain mid-week days; the underground tour typically requires pre-booking and follows specific departure intervals.
Maintain a quiet demeanor as the building historically served as an infirmary and some areas remain solemn.
