The best traffic-free bike rides in Riserva Naturale Ponte A Buriano E Penna

Historic work of hydraulic engineering from the 12th century. Starting point of the suggestive Sentiero della Bonifica (Reclamation Trail) and junction with the Ciclopista dell'Arno (Arno Cycle Path).

Arezzo Cathedral, dedicated to Saints Peter and Donatus, dominates the city from atop the hill of San Pietro. Its construction began in 1277, thanks in part to the bequest of Pope Gregory X, who had died in Arezzo the previous year. Inside, it houses extraordinary masterpieces: Piero della Francesca's fresco of the Magdalene, Guido Tarlati's monumental 14th-century cenotaph, and the splendid Renaissance stained-glass windows by Guillaume de Marcillat. Among the most beloved works is the Madonna del Conforto, the center of popular devotion born after the miracle of 1796 that, according to tradition, stopped a violent earthquake.

Situated at the top of Via de' Pileati, this majestic 14th-century palace remains the civic heart of the city and is distinguished by its imposing quadrangular tower and evocative internal courtyard. From its privileged location, it dominates the historic center, offering visitors a perfect example of Arezzo's medieval architecture just steps from the Cathedral.

Sunset at Piazza Grande

Scenic route above Arezzo, famous for Pantani participation in the Giro diItalia.

Cathedral of Saints Peter and Donatus, Arezzo Cathedral of Saints Peter and Donatus (Cathedral of Arezzo) The Cathedral of Arezzo, officially the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Donatus, is the main Catholic church in the city of Arezzo and the cathedral of the Diocese of Arezzo-Cortona-Sansepolcro. It is located on the hilltop where the city is situated, on the site of an early Christian church and probably on the site of the city's acropolis. Construction began in 1278 but was interrupted several times over the years; the façade was not completed until 1914. The Cathedral of Arezzo is still dedicated to Saint Donatus and preserves a valuable 14th-century marble reliquary on the main altar, dedicated to him and containing the saint's body (his head is preserved in the reliquary bust in the church of Santa Maria della Pieve in Arezzo). The sandstone façade, built between 1901 and 1914 to replace the previous, unfinished one, was given a Neo-Gothic appearance by the architect Dante Viviani. It features rich sculptural decoration created by Giuseppe Cassioli, Enrico Quattrini, and Dante Viviani himself. Below, three portals open, each splayed and adorned with a lunette carved in bas-relief. Only the central portal also has a ghimberga, surmounted by three statues, each with its own canopy: above, Jesus the Redeemer, and below, Saint Donatus (left) and Blessed Gregory (right). The bell tower has its own canopy: above, Jesus the Redeemer, and below, Saint Donatus (left) and Blessed Gregory (right). Corresponding to the nave is a circular rose window by Guillaume de Marcillat, created in 1518, depicting Pentecost. Text / Source: Piramedia Srl - Tourism in Italy https://www.arezzo.com/cattedrale-dei-santi-pietro-e-donato-duomo-di-arezzo/

Arezzo: Art and History in Tuscany Arezzo's narrow streets transported me back in time. Ancient walls told tales of the Etruscans and Romans. In the Piazza Grande, millennia merged into a unique experience. Arezzo is a cultural gem in the heart of Tuscany. With 100,000 inhabitants, the city retains its medieval charm. Etruscan roots and Roman influences shape the cityscape. The city has witnessed many wars and upheavals. Founded by the Etruscans and later conquered by the Romans, Arezzo became an important trading center. Arezzo's eventful history makes it a fascinating travel destination. Visitors experience a rich past and cultural diversity here. Text / Source: Toskanaitalien.de, your website about Tuscany https://www.toskanaitalien.de/arezzo/#:~:text=Arezzo%20is%20a%20cultural%20jewel%20in%20the%20heart%20of%20Tuscany.,cityscape.%20The%20city%20experienced%20many%20wars%20and%20changes.

The Piazza Grande, Arezzo In 1200, the Piazza Grande in Arezzo was still unpaved and stretched from the Red Tower of the Palazzo Comunale on Via Pellicceria to the Borgunto and eastward to the Palazzo del Popolo. At that time, the square was twice its current size and surrounded by the towers of the old noble families. However, the destructive work of Cosimo de' Medici, who transformed the city into a fortress, led to the demolition of many historic buildings and even the burial of the ancient Roman forum. This necessitated a restoration project, including the construction of the loggias, which was entrusted to Giorgio Vasari. Vasari began work in 1572 but died the following year. The work was completed according to the original design under the supervision of Alfonso Parigi. The loggias feature architectural ornamentation in sandstone typical of Arezzo, while the column bases are made of Rapolano travertine, the same material used for the staircase of the Palazzo della Fraternita. The portico is covered with cross vaults, and the windows are surmounted by tympana with classical frames. Text / Source: L'Ortica - Director Gino Perticai || Arezzo City Council Press Office https://www.lortica.it/2024/08/23/piazza-grande-di-arezzo-storia-architettura-e-altre-curiosita-dal-medioevo-al-rinascimento/