Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Exploring Arezzo

A Day of Discovery in Arezzo

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Arezzo, a day filled with history, art, and the simple joys of exploring a new place with my family. We wandered through ancient squares, admired Renaissance masterpieces, and savored the local flavors, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to experience new cultures and share those moments with Jana and Maximilian.

Our day began at the very heart of Arezzo, the Piazza della Libertà. This square is a testament to the city's rich history, surrounded by stunning architecture that dates back to the Renaissance. As we strolled through, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate details of the buildings, each telling a story of Arezzo's past. The square was bustling with activity, street performers adding a lively flair to the serene environment. Maximilian was particularly fascinated by a local artist sketching portraits, and Jana and I enjoyed a moment of peace at a quaint café, sipping on authentic Italian coffee.


Discover the vibrant charm of Piazza della Libertà, Arezzo's cultural heart, where history, art, and local flavors come together in a stunning Italian setting.

The Palazzo della Provincia dominates one side of the Piazza della Libertà. The building was constructed in the early 20th century, uniting several older buildings. The Palazzo is adorned with symbols of Arezzo, including the Chimera and the Roman Amphitheatre. Statues of famous Aretines are displayed in chronological order, including Michelangelo. While the building itself is relatively new, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Arezzo.

From the Piazza della Libertà, we made our way to the Casa Vasari, the home of the renowned Renaissance artist Giorgio Vasari. As a software engineer, I often find myself drawn to the structured logic of code, but visiting Vasari's home was a reminder of the beauty and creativity that art can bring to life. Vasari himself described the house as being in "the best air of the city", which is why he created a beautiful garden there. The three-story palace is surrounded by an Italian-style garden. We took a guided tour, and I was immediately struck by the contrast between the building's exterior and the artistic richness within.


Explore the artistic legacy of Giorgio Vasari at Casa Vasari, a museum in Arezzo that showcases Renaissance art and history.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

The interiors are richly decorated with frescoes and a priceless collection of Mannerist paintings, offering a glimpse into the life and mind of Vasari. Jana was particularly impressed by the intricate details of the wall paintings, while Maximilian enjoyed wandering through the rooms, imagining what it must have been like to live in such a creative space. I found myself admiring Vasari's ability to seamlessly blend art and architecture, creating a home that was both functional and beautiful. It was fascinating to learn about Vasari's work on the study of Francesco I de' Medici in Florence, and how artists from the studiolo circle collaborated with him on the decorations. The Casa Vasari truly felt like stepping back in time, offering a unique perspective on the life of a Renaissance artist.

Our next stop was the Basilica di San Francesco, a place of immense historical and artistic significance. The basilica is known for its stunning frescoes by Piero della Francesca, "Legend of the True Cross", one of the most important fresco cycles of the Renaissance. As we entered the basilica, I was immediately struck by the tranquility of the space. The late 13th-century building's plain sandstone exterior gives way to the artistic wonders inside. The Franciscan friars settled on this site in the 13th century, and the basilica was completed in the 14th century. The Bacci Chapel, where the frescoes are housed, is the heart of the basilica. The frescoes depict the story of the wood used for the cross on which Jesus was crucified, based on the 13th-century "Legenda Aurea" by Jacopo da Varagine. The scenes are arranged in three levels, embracing the side walls and the back wall of the chapel. I found myself captivated by the vivid colors and intricate details of the frescoes, each telling a story of faith and devotion. Maximilian, with his boundless energy, was surprisingly engaged, asking questions about the characters and events depicted in the paintings. Jana and I took turns explaining the significance of each scene, trying to convey the depth of their artistic and religious meaning.


Explore the captivating Basilica di San Francesco in Arezzo, a stunning Gothic church filled with rich history, exquisite art, and serene beauty in the heart of Tuscany.

Before leaving the Basilica, we paused to admire the large crucifix suspended above the altar, attributed to the Master of St. Francis and dating back to 1270-80. The Guasconi Chapel, with its early 15th-century triptych, also caught our attention. The Basilica di San Francesco is not just a church; it's a living testament to Arezzo's rich cultural heritage, a place where art and history converge to create a truly unforgettable experience.

After a day of exploring Arezzo's historical and artistic treasures, our stomachs were rumbling, and it was time to indulge in some local cuisine. We had three restaurants on our list, and after consulting some online reviews, we decided to start with Osteria Il Grottino. Tucked away in the heart of Arezzo, this osteria promised an authentic Tuscan dining experience. The restaurant is located near the church of San Francesco. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with rustic décor and a warm, welcoming staff. We started with some classic Tuscan appetizers, including bruschetta and crostini, each bursting with fresh, local flavors. For the main course, I opted for the risotto ai finferli, a delicate and flavorful dish made with local mushrooms. Jana chose the peposo, a spicy and savory beef stew, while Maximilian, ever the adventurous eater, tried the filetto al tartufo, a tender fillet steak topped with truffle shavings. Each dish was a testament to the region's culinary traditions, made with love and care.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Osteria Il Grottino - where every dish tells a story.

We also considered Convivio, known for its modern take on Tuscan cuisine, and Ristorante VescoVile, famous for its seafood dishes, but ultimately, Osteria Il Grottino won us over with its promise of a traditional Tuscan experience. Perhaps we'll try them another time! The restaurant's location, Via della Madonna del Prato, added to its charm, making it the perfect spot to end our day of exploration.

Before heading back to HOTEL RESIDENCE LE CORNIOLE, Maximilian insisted on a quick stop at Flying Tiger Copenhagen. This quirky Danish store, known for its affordable and whimsical items, was a hit with Maximilian. We spent a good half-hour browsing the shelves, filled with everything from colorful stationery to quirky gadgets. Maximilian picked out a few small toys and art supplies, while Jana and I found some fun kitchen gadgets. It was a lighthearted and fun way to end our day, a reminder that travel is not just about seeing famous landmarks, but also about embracing the simple joys of life.


Explore Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Arezzo for unique gifts and home goods that capture the spirit of your travels in Italy.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored the heart of Arezzo, immersing ourselves in its history, art, and culture. From the grandeur of Piazza della Libertà to the artistic wonders of Casa Vasari and the Basilica di San Francesco, every moment was filled with discovery and wonder. And as we look ahead to tomorrow, we're excited to explore the Porta San Lorentino, the Medici Fortress Park, and the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici. I'm also looking forward to trying some local street food at La Tua Piadina, and perhaps enjoying a relaxing evening at Urban Green. Arezzo continues to surprise and delight us, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. For now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this beautiful Tuscan town. What a perfect way to spend a day with my family!

Tomorrow promises more exploration as we plan to visit the Porta San Lorentino, the Medici Fortress Park, and the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici. We're also considering a visit to the Urban Green bar for a relaxing evening.