The Prato-Florence Tram That Carried Artisanal Goods Like Mattei’s Biscuits

Did you know that... As early as the 1400s, Prato’s artisanal products—wool, woollen fabrics, yarns, straw braids for hats, Prato bread, anise-flavoured cantucci, and other specialties—were transported to Florence. At that time, these goods were transported on horse-drawn carts.

By the late 19th century, to facilitate transportation, a steam tramway was designed and built, connecting Florence to Prato (from 1880 to 1885). In 1886, to allow the tram to reach the heart of Prato, a section of the city walls was demolished, and Porta Fiorentina was torn down. In 1974, the Henry Moore statue was placed at that exact spot, resembling a "keyhole" where the gate once stood.
This is why Prato locals affectionately call it "Moore’s Hole."

Henry Moore’s sculpture: Square Form with Cut, 1969-71. This sculpture, composed of 30 blocks of white marble from the Apuan Alps, is one of Italy’s most significant modern artworks.

The tram had seven carriages and a round-trip ticket in second class cost 1 lira and 30 cents. At the end of its final journey each day, the tram was parked overnight in a warehouse in Piazza delle Carceri.

Early in the morning, before departure, the square buzzed with activity as local artisans and bakers arrived with their goods. Among them was Emilio Mattei, carrying baskets filled with bozza di Prato (Prato Bread), anise-flavoured cantucci, Prato Biscuits, and other specialties from his bakery.. 

When Emilio Mattei decided to hand over the bakery to our great-grandfather Tommaso Pandolfini and Egisto Ciampolini, it was Egisto and his wife Italia who took charge of the shop.

"Antonio Mattei Successor E. Ciampolini Factory of Cantucci, Biscottini, Mantovana Cake, Pasta dough, and other sweets Awarded 14 medals, 2 Grand Prix, including at the 1862 London and 1867 Paris World Exhibitions"

Keeping the name of the well-known and respected founder ensured quality and helped retain customers both within and beyond the city walls. The Mattei Bakery products continued to be delivered to Florence on one of these tram carriages.

In 1913, the tram line was electrified, but it later fell into disuse due to war-related issues and was officially discontinued in 1922.
To maintain the same service, alternative transportation was used: first by train and later by couriers.

Even today, you can find our products in Florence—but it’s much easier now, thanks to our Museum- Bakery in Via Porta Rossa, opened in 2018.
Fresh deliveries arrive every day, thanks to Luca and our delivery van!

Curiosity For years, the City of Prato has been planning a tramway to connect Prato to Florence.
The first section, up to Campi Bisenzio, is expected to be completed between 2026 and 2027.

I love historical recurrences —how about you?

Letizia Pandolfini