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Piazza Del Duomo, 52100 Arezzo, Italy (May 2019)
Arezzo
Arezzo, a captivating city in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, is a place where history, art, and tradition blend seamlessly with modern life. Located about 80 kilometres southeast of Florence, Arezzo sits gracefully on a hill, offering panoramic views of the rolling Tuscan countryside. This ancient city is often less crowded than other Tuscan destinations, yet it holds treasures that rival those of its more famous neighbours. Rich in Etruscan roots, medieval charm, and Renaissance brilliance, Arezzo invites visitors to explore its remarkable past and vibrant present.
The origins of Arezzo trace back to the Etruscan civilization, making it one of the oldest cities in Tuscany. Known as Arretium in ancient times, it was a significant Etruscan settlement and later became an important Roman city renowned for its pottery and craftsmanship. The layers of its long history are still visible in the city’s architecture, archaeological remains, and cultural traditions. Walking through Arezzo feels like stepping through centuries of Italian heritage, where each square and street tells a story.
At the heart of the city lies Piazza Grande, one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Italy. Its irregular shape and sloping pavement add to its unique charm, and it is surrounded by elegant palaces and historic buildings. Every June and September, the square transforms into the stage for the Giostra del Saracino, a traditional jousting tournament that dates back to the Middle Ages. This colourful event, filled with costumes, music, and cheering crowds, reflects Arezzo’s deep connection to its history and community spirit.
Arezzo is also an artistic treasure trove. The city was the birthplace of many notable figures, including the painter and architect Giorgio Vasari and the poet Francesco Petrarca, better known as Petrarch. One of its most famous landmarks, the Basilica of San Francesco, houses Piero della Francesca’s fresco cycle The Legend of the True Cross, a masterpiece of Renaissance art admired for its balance, clarity, and emotional depth.
Beyond its art and architecture, Arezzo offers the authentic charm of Tuscan life. Visitors can stroll through its historic centre, browse antique shops, and enjoy local cuisine featuring traditional dishes such as ribollita, crostini toscani, and wines from the nearby Chianti region. Whether exploring its cultural landmarks, enjoying a festival, or simply relaxing in a café overlooking the piazza, Arezzo captures the essence of Tuscany in its most genuine form.
Worth a Visit
The Parrocchia S.S. Annunziata Arco, located in the historic city of Arezzo in Tuscany, Italy, stands as a significant spiritual and cultural landmark. This parish church, dedicated to the Santissima Annunziata (Most Holy Annunciation), represents centuries of religious devotion, architectural heritage, and community life. Nestled within the ancient walls of Arezzo—a city renowned for its medieval roots, Renaissance art, and Etruscan origins, the church is not only a place of worship but also a custodian of history and tradition. The church takes its name from both the Annunciation, a central event in Christian theology marking the angel Gabriel’s announcement to the Virgin Mary, and the Arco, or arch, that once marked a key point of entry into the old city.
The Parrocchia di Santa Maria in Gradi, located in the charming and historically rich city of Arezzo, Tuscany, is a notable parish with deep spiritual, historical, and cultural roots. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary under the title “Santa Maria in Gradi”, the church has long served as a centre of Catholic worship and community life. Its name, which can be translated as “Saint Mary of the Steps” or “of the Degrees”, is thought to derive from its elevated position or from the steps that once led up to the original church structure, adding a symbolic layer to its identity as a place of ascent—both physical and spiritual. The church dates back to the medieval period and has seen centuries of evolution, both architecturally and in its role within the city.
Porta San Lorentino, one of the historic gateways to the city of Arezzo, stands as a remarkable example of medieval architecture and urban heritage. Located on the western side of the city, this ancient gate once served as a vital entrance along the road leading toward Florence. Built during the Middle Ages and later modified in the Renaissance period, it reflects the strategic and defensive importance of Arezzo’s city walls. The gate is named after the nearby church of San Lorentino, adding a religious and cultural significance to its identity. Over the centuries, Porta San Lorentino has witnessed the passage of merchants, travellers, and soldiers, becoming a silent guardian of Arezzo’s evolving history. Today, it remains an impressive symbol of the city’s past, harmoniously blending with the surrounding streets and offering visitors a tangible connection to Arezzo’s medieval origins and architectural beauty.
Photo Gallery of Walk in Arezzo – Piazza della Badia to Porta San Lorentino
Approximately 1.36 km – 0.84 miles
The walk starts in Piazza della Badia – Via Cavour – Piazza della S.S. Annunziata – Parrocchia S.S. Annunziata, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi – Via Cavour – Piaggia di Murello – Piazza Santa Maria in Gradi – Parrocchia S. Maria In Gradi, Piazza Santa Maria in Gradi – Piaggia di Murello – Via di Sasso Verde – Piazza Santa Maria in Gradi – Parrocchia S. Maria In Gradi, Piazza Santa Maria in Gradi – Via di Sasso Verde – Via Ricasoli – Piazza Del Duomo – Via Ricasoli – Via S. Lorentino – Porta San Lorentino
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