Located near the train station, Deposito Rotabili Storici of Pistoia is managed by the Fondazione FS Italiane and contains one of the most important collections of steam locomotives, vintage carriages and other historic vehicles that marked the evolution of rail transportation in Italy.
The depot dates back to the 19th century, specifically to 1864, when the Porrettana Bologna-Florence line was opened and Pistoia became a strategic center for steam train maintenance. With the electrification and modernization of the railway network, the old locomotives were in danger of being forgotten but, thanks to the commitment of enthusiasts and institutions, the depot has been transformed into a center for the restoration and enhancement of historical material.
Today, the Deposito Rotabili Storici is not just a place of preservation, but also a departure point for vintage tourist trains, such as those that travel along the Trans-Apennine line. The days of the Porrettana Express are filled with workshops and guided tours, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of yesteryear, discovering the workings of steam locomotives and the lives of railroad workers of the past.
A trip to the Pistoia Depot is an experience allowing you to relive the charm of vintage railroads and the magic of slow travel along tracks steeped in history.