The Coen brothers’ movie title, It’s Not a Country for Old People. But unlike the United States, Empoli seems more and more an “old” country. Although the municipal administration strives to offer entertainment aimed at all age groups, it is always difficult to get children involved. Apart from the various events that are organized occasionally, the city is not very attractive. Anyone twenty years of age or older will remember well what the historic center of Empoli was a few years ago. On weekends, in particular, it was full of people of all ages, who went there for the famous Empoli tour, and spent …
The Coen brothers’ movie title, It’s Not a Country for Old People. But unlike the United States, Empoli seems more and more an “old” country. Although the municipal administration strives to offer entertainment aimed at all age groups, it is always difficult to get children involved. Apart from the various events that are organized occasionally, the city is not very attractive.
Anyone twenty years of age or older will remember well what the historic center of Empoli was a few years ago. On the weekends, in particular, it was bustling with people of all ages, who went there to tour the famous Empoli, or spend the day strolling, shopping in the stores, or eating in the bars. For years now, it has been decided to “dead” that historic center marked by memories.
If he is still able to maintain his vitality during the day, then the real ruin comes in the evening. There is certainly no shortage of clubs in Empoli. From pubs, to wine bars, to breweries, to American pubs, I understand the tastes and preferences of a large portion of the young audience. Perfect for an aperitif, a glass of wine and enjoying light meals. The city is also brimming with pizzerias and restaurants, excellent for enjoying a good dinner. But after a certain time what happens in the city of Pontormo?
Many evenings are spent in what proves to be the heart of the city: Piazza della Vittoria. A meeting place for young people from Empoli who stop for a good drink and chat. However, it is not hard to imagine how boring the situation can become in the long run. When you spend Friday evening sitting in a bar in Empoli, on Saturday you will not have much desire to go to the same places. Whereas young people, who have limited freedom of movement and independence, remain in the center. Those who own a car almost have to commute to destinations like Florence or the sea in the summer. They might stay in town for an aperitif or a drink and then migrate to other beaches. What attracts them in other places is the great entertainment offer: more choice of venues. From literary cafes to karaoke bars and clubs with live music.
Even the youth-oriented cultural offering seems limited in Empoli: little live music, few meetings and initiatives designed for young people. Nightlife in Empoli has become less attractive since all discos have been closed, even in neighboring municipalities. Years ago, all the nightclubs, frequented not only by young people from Empoli, but by a much wider audience, closed their doors, leaving children without a place to go wild, dance and have fun. The city itself was also damaged: many of these clubs became symbols of recognition. So, what is Empoli lacking? There is something missing that defines it, that makes it different from any other city nearby.
This is why the Beat Festival is so popular: there is no similar event nearby, so much so that it has become an icon of the municipality. There is a need for the clubs, bars and events that characterize Empoli, making it unique and which not only encourages Empoli residents to stay and repeat their city, but also attract young people from all the neighboring municipalities.
Costanza Siabe
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