Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Exploring Arezzo

A Day of Poetry and Ancient Echoes

Today in Arezzo was a beautiful blend of honoring literary giants and delving into the region's rich past. Jana, Maximilian, and I set out to explore the city's cultural heart, and it turned out to be a day filled with unexpected discoveries and delightful moments. From strolling through verdant gardens to uncovering ancient artifacts, Arezzo truly captivated us.

Our first stop was the Monument of Francesco Petrarca. It was impossible not to be moved by the grandeur of the monument dedicated to one of Italy's most celebrated poets. As someone who appreciates history and literature, standing before this magnificent sculpture felt like a pilgrimage. The monument, erected in 1928, stands proudly in the Passeggio del Prato, a beautiful park that offers panoramic views of Arezzo. Maximilian, of course, was more interested in climbing around the base of the monument, but even he paused for a moment to listen when I told him about Petrarch and his contributions to literature. It's moments like these, sharing my passions with my family, that make our travels so special.


Explore the Monument of Francesco Petrarca in Arezzo, a captivating tribute to the renowned poet, surrounded by rich history and stunning landscapes.

The monument itself is a sight to behold. The four-meter tall statue of Petrarch dominates the surroundings, and the intricate sculptures at its base tell stories of war, peace, and love. I was particularly struck by the depiction of the Italian Mother, holding a child while protecting her eldest son. It’s a powerful image that speaks to the enduring strength of family bonds. Jana, ever the art enthusiast, pointed out the winged Cupid and the Madonna and Child, each adding a layer of depth to the monument's symbolism. She has such an eye for detail, and I always appreciate her insights.

After paying our respects to Petrarch, we took a leisurely stroll through the Passeggio del Prato. The park, with its lush greenery and ancient maritime pines, provided a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Maximilian, full of energy, ran ahead, exploring every nook and cranny of the park. Jana and I followed at a more relaxed pace, enjoying the picturesque views of Arezzo and the surrounding countryside. The Passeggio del Prato was originally created to provide a green space for the city's residents, and it still serves that purpose today. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike can come to relax, exercise, and enjoy the beauty of nature.


Explore the lush landscapes and historical charm of Passeggio del Prato, the serene park in Arezzo, Italy, perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences.

To move, to breathe, to fly, to float, to gain all while you give, to roam the roads of lands remote, to travel is to live.

Our next destination was the Gāius Cilnius Mæcēnās National Archaeological Museum. Housed in the former monastery of San Bernardo, the museum is a treasure trove of Etruscan and Roman artifacts. As we entered the museum, I felt a sense of excitement. I always find it fascinating to see the remnants of ancient civilizations and to imagine what life was like in those times. The museum's collection is extensive, with artifacts spanning from the Etruscan age to late antiquity. Maximilian, surprisingly, was quite engaged. He was fascinated by the ancient coins and the pottery, asking questions about their origins and uses. It was a wonderful opportunity to teach him about history in a hands-on way.


Discover the Gāius Cilnius Mæcēnās National Archæological Museum in Arezzo, a captivating journey through Italy's rich ancient history and culture.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of Arretina vasa, also known as coral vases. These red-gloss pottery pieces were produced in Arezzo between the mid-1st century BC and the mid-1st century AD, and they made the city famous throughout the Roman Empire. The museum boasts the world's richest collection of these vases, and it was truly remarkable to see them up close. Jana was particularly impressed by the Greek crater painted by Euphronios, depicting the fight between Hercules and the Amazons. She has always been drawn to Greek mythology, and she spent a considerable amount of time studying the intricate details of the vase.

After immersing ourselves in history, we decided it was time for a late lunch. We chose Osteria I Bottega, drawn in by its rustic charm and inviting atmosphere. The osteria is known for its traditional Aretine cuisine, and we were eager to try some local specialties. We started with a selection of crostini, topped with various spreads and cheeses. They were the perfect way to whet our appetites. For our main courses, Jana ordered the pici pasta with ragu, Maximilian chose the grilled chicken, and I opted for the wild boar stew. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and we savored every bite. The osteria had a cozy, family-run feel, and the staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, which added to the overall experience. I made a mental note to try and recreate the wild boar stew when we got back to Brno – a taste of Tuscany to brighten up our Czech evenings.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Osteria I Bottega - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in some gelato at Essenza Dario e Anna - dal 1964. This gelateria is located in Piazza Grande, and it's known for its delicious gelato and friendly service. We each chose a different flavor – Jana went for pistachio, Maximilian selected chocolate, and I decided on stracciatella. As we sat in the piazza, enjoying our gelato, we watched the world go by. Piazza Grande is the heart of Arezzo, and it's always bustling with activity. Street performers, tourists, and locals all come together in this vibrant space, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. The gelateria, with its charming decor and delicious treats, was the perfect place to soak it all in. It was a simple pleasure, but one that we all thoroughly enjoyed.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Essenza Dario e Anna in Arezzo – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

With the sun beginning to set, we decided to cap off our day with a visit to the Moscow mule cocktail bar. I had read about this bar online, and I was intrigued by its unique cocktails and cozy atmosphere. As a homebrewer, I always appreciate a well-crafted drink, and I was eager to see what this bar had to offer. The bar itself was small and intimate, with dim lighting and comfortable seating. The bartender was friendly and knowledgeable, and he took the time to explain the different cocktails on the menu. Jana and I both ordered Moscow mules, while Maximilian opted for a non-alcoholic fruit punch. The Moscow mules were delicious, with just the right balance of ginger beer, vodka, and lime. It was the perfect way to end our day in Arezzo.


Discover the Moscow Mule Cocktail Bar in Arezzo - a cocktail haven offering signature drinks and a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable night.

As we walked back to Hotel Residence Le Corniole, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored ancient monuments, strolled through picturesque parks, and indulged in delicious food and drinks. But more importantly, we had spent quality time together as a family, creating memories that we would cherish for years to come. Arezzo had exceeded my expectations, and I was already looking forward to tomorrow's itinerary. We plan to visit Piazza della Libertà, Casa Vasari, and Basilica di San Francesco, and I'm sure they will be just as fascinating as today's destinations. I'm also looking forward to a bit of shopping at Flying Tiger Copenhagen – Maximilian is always on the lookout for unique souvenirs.


Discover comfort and modern living at Residence Le Corniole, just steps from Arezzo's historic center, offering stunning views and top-notch amenities.

Before drifting off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this wonderful city with my family. As I always say, travel is more than just seeing new places; it's about creating connections and sharing experiences with the people you love. And so far, our family adventure in the heart of Tuscany has been everything I had hoped for and more.

Tomorrow promises new adventures, and I can't wait to share them with you all. Until then, arrivederci from Arezzo!