A surprising destination, often little considered in the traditional Tuscan itineraries, but one with a wealth of art and beauty. Arezzo a gem set between four valleys: Val Tiberina, Casentino, Valdarno and Valdichiana, and is the birthplace of a number of key figures in history, one in particular being Piero della Francesca. Its squares and churches are treasure troves of artistic masterpieces, its parks are relaxing green oases a stone’s throw from the city centre.

Let’s begin from the majestic Duomo, which stands in a small square with a medieval tower, Piazza della Libertà. Carrying on from there we find the Fortezza Medicea, one of the city’s loveliest green spaces, dominated by an imposing statue dedicated to Petrarch and with a sweeping view over the Casentino valley and the surrounding vineyards.

Going down Corso Italia we come to the Loggia designed by Vasari, with its splendid arcades and ancient doors, which now houses various carfés and restaurants. During the spring and summer, tables and chairs set outside provide a front-row view of Piazza Grande, with its particular sloping trapezoidal shape, surrounded by historic palazzos.

It is in Piazza Grande, the heart of the city, that the famous antiques market is held (every first Sunday of the month and the previous Saturday). Twice a year (in June and September) it is the scene of the Giostra del Saracino, (the Saracen Joust) a knightly tournament dating to the Middle Ages.

Continuing on towards Via Cavour, you can visit the Basilica di San Francesco, where you will find one of the greatest masterpieces of the Renaissance – the Bacci Chapel frescoed by Piero della Francesca with the Legends of the True Cross.

Continue your tour with a visit to Vasari’s house and the Basilica di San Domenico. Finally, you cannot come to Arezzo without visiting La Pieve, an extraordinary example of Romanesque architecture, and the Roman Amphitheatre, today used as an outdoor theatre.

After a visit to Arezzo, don’t miss the chance to give yourself an unforgettable experience of shopping, good food and beauty at The Mall Firenze, just 45 minutes away from the city of goldsmiths.

(ph. Alexander Henke, Bjorn Agerbeek, Alexander Henke – Unsplash)