Hello, beautiful souls! Charlotte Dawson here, and today I’m taking you on a journey to one of Tuscany’s most charming and historically rich squares – Piazza Grande in Arezzo. This beautiful piazza, with its medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the culture and history of Tuscany. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking to soak in the Tuscan charm, Piazza Grande is a must-visit destination. Ready to explore? Let’s dive in! 🌟🏛️

A Glimpse into History 📜

Piazza Grande, also known as the Grand Square, is the heart of Arezzo’s historic center. This picturesque square dates back to the Middle Ages and has been a focal point of city life for centuries. The piazza is surrounded by stunning buildings, including the Palazzo delle Logge, designed by the famous architect Giorgio Vasari, and the medieval Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici. Piazza Grande is also famous for hosting the Giostra del Saracino, a traditional jousting tournament that takes place twice a year. For more details, visit the official site. 🏰

Arrival and First Impressions 🚶‍♀️

Getting There

Arezzo is easily accessible by train from Florence and other major cities in Tuscany. The train station is just a short walk from Piazza Grande, making it easy to explore the city on foot.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and take your time to wander through the charming streets of Arezzo as you make your way to the piazza. 🚶‍♂️👟

First Impressions

As you step into Piazza Grande, the first thing that strikes you is its unique trapezoidal shape and the beautiful mix of architectural styles. The sloping square, lined with historic buildings and charming cafes, creates a magical atmosphere that invites you to explore.

Highlight: The stunning architecture of the Palazzo delle Logge and the vibrant activity of the piazza. 🌟

Morning: Exploring Piazza Grande 🌟

Palazzo delle Logge

Start your visit with the Palazzo delle Logge, a beautiful Renaissance building designed by Giorgio Vasari. The elegant loggia, with its arched portico, offers a perfect spot to take in the views of the piazza and enjoy a coffee.

Photo Opportunity: Capture the stunning architecture of the Palazzo delle Logge and the picturesque views of the piazza. 📸

Church of Santa Maria della Pieve

Next, visit the Church of Santa Maria della Pieve, one of the oldest churches in Arezzo. The church’s Romanesque facade, with its intricate columns and arches, is a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

Highlight: The beautiful interior of the church, with its ancient frescoes and peaceful atmosphere. 🏛️

Exploration Tip: Take your time to appreciate the details of the church’s facade and the stunning artworks inside. 🎧

Midday: Dining and Reflections 🌆

Lunch at Osteria del Borghicciolo

For lunch, head to Osteria del Borghicciolo, a cozy restaurant located near Piazza Grande. This delightful spot offers a menu of traditional Tuscan dishes, prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Menu Highlights: Try the pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar pasta) or the ribollita (Tuscan bread soup), paired with a glass of local Chianti. And don’t miss the cantucci e vin santo for dessert! 🍝🍷

Culinary Tip: Make a reservation in advance to secure a table, as this popular restaurant is often busy. 🍽️

Afternoon: Surrounding Attractions 🌍

Casa Vasari

After lunch, take a short walk to Casa Vasari, the former home of Giorgio Vasari, the renowned Renaissance artist and architect. The house is now a museum, showcasing Vasari’s beautiful frescoes and his impressive art collection.

Highlight: The vibrant frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings of Casa Vasari. 🖼️

Photo Opportunity: Capture the stunning details of the frescoes and the charming ambiance of the artist’s home. 📸

The Archaeological Museum

Next, visit the Archaeological Museum, located in the former monastery of San Bernardo. The museum houses an extensive collection of Etruscan and Roman artifacts, providing a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of Arezzo.

Exploration Tip: Spend some time exploring the museum’s exhibits and learning about the rich history of the region. 🎧

Evening: Sunset and Reflections 🌅

As the day winds down, find a spot in Piazza Grande or one of the nearby viewpoints to watch the sunset. The golden light reflecting off the medieval buildings creates a magical atmosphere.

Highlight: The view of the sunset over Piazza Grande, casting a warm glow over the historic buildings and the lively square. 🌄

Photo Opportunity: Capture the stunning sunset and the twinkling lights of Arezzo starting to appear. 📸

Final Thoughts 💭

Visiting Piazza Grande is more than just a trip to a historic square; it’s an immersive experience that brings you closer to the rich history and vibrant culture of Tuscany. From the awe-inspiring architecture and fascinating history to the delicious cuisine and beautiful landscapes, every moment in Arezzo is filled with wonder and inspiration.

Until next time, keep exploring, stay curious, and let the beauty of history and culture inspire your travels.

Love,

Charlotte 🌍💕