A Guide to Arezzo

Arezzo, in the east of Tuscany has ancient origins. Founded by the Umbrians it became one of the most important Etruscan settlements, and subsequently a strategic point for the Romans. Finally, after many a conflict it was taken under control by the medieval Florentines. The town is famous for its gold with numerous jewelers and goldsmiths.

Arezzo hosts two significant festivals, the Giosstra del Saracino and the Polifonico, along with a monthly antiques fare which transforms the piazza into an enormous show of extraordinary furniture. Among Arezzo’s numerous sights are the Roman Amphitheatre, the Basilica of St Francis, the House of Petrarch, the Bacci Chapel, the Cathedral of St Donato, the Church of St Maria delle Grazie and the Church of St Annunziata.

There are mant other attractions in the area such as the Medici Fortress, the Town Walls, the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Medieval and Modern Art, Palazzo Comunale, Palazzo Vescovile, and Palazzo Pretorio. Arezzo;s reputation also arises from the great names that are associated with the town: Petrach, Pietro Aretino, Giorgio Vasari and the poet Guittone to name a few.