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Arezzo
The major cultural and artistic centre of the eastern Tuscany, Arezzo is set on a hill rising right in the middle of four rich valleys: Casentino, Valdarno, Valdichiana and Valtiberina.
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Its strategic geographical position and its natural wealth allowed Arezzo to become one of the twelve main Etruscan cities and an important Roman centre, enriched by a big amphitheatre, the remains of which can still be visited --its field is just a few metres smaller than that of the Colosseum!
A powerful commune in medieval times, Arezzo still displays the traces of its ancient glory.
You will be impressed by the fascinating and picturesque Piazza Grande (the main square), one of the filming locations for the Academy Award winning movie “Life is Beautiful” (directed by and starring Roberto Benigni -1997).
On the first Sunday of every month – and the day before – Piazza Grande becomes the lively heart of the famous Fiera Antiquaria di Arezzo, the oldest and the biggest antique fair in Italy with more than 500 selected exhibitors coming on the occasion from all over the Italian Peninsula.
Furthermore, twice a year – in June and September – this square hosts the beautiful Medieval Joust of the Saracen, a spectacular chivalry tournament in which the knights of the four city districts compete in order to win the prestigious Golden Lance.
Strolling through the city centre, you will discover majestic churches and unique masterpieces of art, such as the extraordinary Crucifix by Cimabue, master of the most well-known Giotto, the famous frescoes by Piero della Francesca and the marvellous synthesis of stained glass and life realized in the 16th century windows by Guillaume de Marcillat.
You will not want to miss the city’s museums which house so many cultural treasures. Among the most important are:
- Giorgio Vasari’s house, completely frescoed by the great artist born in Arezzo in 1511;
- the Medieval and Modern Art Museum, exhibiting some of the best paintings and sculptures made in Arezzo from the Middle Ages until the XIX century;
- the MUDAS Museum, the museum of the Diocese where you can see marvellous works of sacred art;
- the Archaeological Museum, where a huge variety of precious Etruscan and Roman objects and remains are kept;
- Ivan Bruschi Museum, a true “house of wonders”, where you can admire the impressive collection of antiques (around 10,000 objects) that belonged to the founder of the famous Arezzo Antique Fair.
Nothing left for you to do but choose an itinerary and come to Arezzo, discover all its jewels being guided around by a professional, and finally fall in love with a city defined by many tourists “a lovely surprise”!
