Its monuments and buildings have been enchanting visitors for centuries, and been home to priceless works of art for even longer.
The city lies between the three valleys that shape the territory: the Upper Valdarno, Casentino and Val di Chiana.
Not just for those looking to admire the striking natural splendour, these valleys are surrounded by quaint and picturesque towns, including Castiglion Fiorentino, Cortona, Marciano della Chiana, Monte San Savino, and Laterina Monterchi.
Arezzo itself was founded in a pre-Etruscan era and went on to become a jewel in the crown of the Roman empire.
In the 10th century the city enjoyed a short-lived autonomy, before becoming part of the impressive Grand Duchy of Tuscany.
By train: see schedule
By Car:
1) A1 highway, entry “Valdarno” (Montevarchi), exit “Arezzo”, follow the motorway for 10 km to Arezzo (from Bucine tot. 36km)
2) From Bucine towards Levine: Take SS69 Levane to Arezzo (from Bucine tot. 30km)
3) From Bucine to Capannole: From Capannole take a left turn for Badia Agnano. Continue to Civitella, an ancient and historic spot that deserves a visit. From Civitella Badia al Pino, take the SS73 to Arezzo (from Bucine tot. 34km)
TO SEE: There is more than enough history and culture in Arezzo to keep you admiring for hours, but you cannot miss:
-The Cathedral of Arezzo, also known as the Cathedral of San Donato: It’s a splendid Gothic building that’s home to the tomb of Pope Gregory X.
-The Basilica of St. Francis: Its walls are covered in old and obviously priceless frescoes, including one depicting “The Legend of the True Cross”, which is thought to have been painted by Piero della Francesca.
-The Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie: A magnificent 15th century, late Gothic church.
-The Church of Santa Maria della Pieve: Stunning in its own right, but even more striking thanks to its 59 metre tall bell tower.
-The Church of St. Augustine: Built in the 12th century.
-The Church of the Santissima Annunziata, also known as the Church of Our Lady of Tears.
-The Medici Fortress: A grand 16th century castle that stands as testament to Arezzo’s military past and the impressive strength of the Medici.
-The Fraternity House of Laity: Built in 1786, this was once the seat of a civil court known as the “Tribunale della Ruota Civile”.
MUSEUMS IN AREZZO:
• Museum of Medieval and Modern Art: Palazzo Bruni-Ciocca, via S. Lorentino 8, tel: 0575/409050
• Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art of the Duomo: In the square behind the Cathedral of S. Donato, tel: 0575/23991
• The restored frescoes of Piero della Francesca and “The Legend of the True Cross: In the Basilica of San Francisco, for information call: 0575-352727
RESTAURANTS RECOMMENDED BY ITALIAN DINING OUT GUIDE “Gambero Rosso”:
• Il Saraceno Restaurant: “Via Mazzini 6 / A. Tel: 0575/27644. Closed on Wednesdays.
• Trattoria da Guido: Via Madonna del Prato. Tel 0575/23760,. Closed on the first Sunday of every month.
• The Tower of Gnicche Restarant: Piaggia San Martino 8. Tel: 0575/352035. Closed on Wednesdays.
• “Three Glasses” Restaurant-Wine Bar: Piazzetta Sopra I Ponti 3/4/5. Tel: 0575/26557. Closed on Wednesdays.
INFORMATION
Tourist Office: Piazza Risorgimento 116. Tel: 0575-23952/3
Information Office: Piazza della Repubblica 28. Tel: 0575-377678