Arezzo: explore the city with poggio del Drago!

Explore Arezzo in one day!

Arezzo, a city nestled in the heart of Tuscany, offers a fascinating journey through centuries of history, art, and tradition, perfectly encapsulated in a one-day itinerary with the support of B&B Country House Poggio Del Drago. The city, known for its Etruscan roots and rich medieval and Renaissance history, is a treasure trove of works of art, significant architecture, and cultural moments set in a breathtaking Tuscan landscape.

Other things to see in Arezzo include the Basilica of San Domenico, the Basilica of Saints Flora and Lucilla, and the Medici Fortress. Also, not to be forgotten we have the Cathedral Park and the Basilica of St. Francis.

Cathedral of Saints Peter and Donatus: A Spiritual Gem

Located on top of the main hill, the Cathedral of Arezzo is not only a religious landmark but a monument that holds priceless works of art such as Piero della Francesca’s “La Maddalena.” Its location offers an exceptional panoramic view, allowing one to contemplate the city and its surroundings from an elevated perspective, symbolizing the spiritual and cultural rise of the city itself.

Diocesan Museum and Bishop’s Palace: Keepers of the Faith and Art of Arezzo

Next to the Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace and its Diocesan Museum represent a shrine to sacred art, where crucifixes, paintings and liturgical vestments tell the story of Arezzo’s devotion. The works of Giorgio Vasari and rare manuscripts on display offer a window into the spiritual depth and cultural richness of the city, in an ongoing dialogue between faith and beauty.

The House of Francesco Petrarca: A Dive into Renaissance Literature

Not far away, the birthplace of Francesco Petrarch invites visitors to explore the roots of Italian Renaissance literature in an intimate and historic setting. This house-museum, in addition to preserving memories of the poet, serves as a cultural catalyst thanks to the Accademia Petrarca, promoting studies and dialogues on his work and times.
Palazzo della Fraternità dei Laici: Crossroads of Art and Community
In the heart of Piazza Grande, the Palazzo della Fraternità dei Laici emerges as a meeting point between art, with its rich Bartolini Collection, and community, evidenced by the ancient clock still in operation today. This building symbolizes the harmony between Arezzo’s past and present, telling stories of civic life through the centuries.

Santa Maria della Pieve and Its “Tower of the Hundred Holes”

Overlooking Piazza Grande, this church is a sublime example of Romanesque architecture, famous for its unique bell tower. The complex and ornate structure of the tower, with its countless openings, offers a visual spectacle that enchants and invites the discovery of the artistic and architectural details that embellish the building.

Basilica of St. Francis and Bacci Chapel: The Renaissance in Frescoes

The Basilica of St. Francis, with its Bacci Chapel, houses one of the most significant fresco cycles of the Renaissance, “The Legend of the True Cross” by Piero della Francesca. This work, which requires reservations for its visit, represents a high point in the artistic exploration of Arezzo,offering a deep immersion in the biblical narrative and technical mastery of the Italian Renaissance. The frescoes tell stories of faith and humanity with a beauty and precision that transport the visitor back in time, offering an intimate connection to the art and spirituality of the past.

The National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art: A Journey Through Art

Located in the heart of Arezzo, the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art is a must-see for art lovers. Its rooms display a wide range of works spanning several eras, from Piero della Francesca to Vasari to Signorelli, creating a dialogue between the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and modern times. The picture gallery inside the museum allows visitors to admire the artistry of Italian and international artists, offering a 360-degree view of artistic evolution.

The Giorgio Vasari House Museum

The Giorgio Vasari House Museum in Arezzo, purchased by the artist in 1541, is an extraordinary example of a Renaissance mansion, decorated by Vasari and his pupils with frescoes celebrating the Renaissance. It houses the Vasarian Archives, fundamental to the history of 16th-century art, and an Italianate garden restored between 1975 and 1981. The house illustrates the connection between Vasari, his Mannerist contemporaries and Arezzo, making the House Museum an essential stop for art lovers visiting the city.

Piazza Grande: The Stage of the City of Arezzo

Piazza Grande, with its harmonious blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture, is the hub of Arezzo’s social and cultural life. Here, the ancient tradition of the Saracen Joust is revived in a historic tournament that celebrates courage and honor, transforming the square into a lively stage of history and tradition. The square also invites relaxation and contemplation, with its cafes and restaurants offering a taste of Arezzo’s rich cuisine.

The “Prato” Park: A Green Haven in the City of Arezzo

Concluding the day’s exploration, the Prato Park offers a space of tranquility and natural beauty, ideal for relaxing after cultural visits. The park, with its paths, green areas and the Medici Fortress, offers a unique viewpoint of Arezzo and its countryside, inviting moments of reflection and connection with nature and the city’s history.

Explore Arezzo with Poggio Del Drago as Your Base

The B&B Country House Poggio del Drago is the ideal base for this cultural adventure, offering hospitality and comfort in an environment immersed in the tranquility of the Tuscan countryside. From here, Arezzo is easily explored, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its history, art and tradition, then retreat to an oasis of peace.
This one-day itinerary in Arezzo is just a taste of what the city has to offer. Each visit reveals new treasures and stories, inviting deeper and deeper discoveries in one of the beating hearts of Tuscany.