Family Exploration of Historic Arezzo

Arezzo's Echoes of the Past

Today was a delightful dive into the heart of Arezzo, a city that whispers tales of medieval grandeur and Roman history. It was a day of exploring, learning, and simply soaking in the Tuscan sun with my family. Hans and Sophie were just as excited as I was to uncover the treasures hidden within this charming city. From the intricate artwork in the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art, to the serene beauty of Santa Maria della Pieve, and the imposing presence of the Roman Amphitheatre of Arezzo, Arezzo certainly didn't disappoint.


Explore the rich artistic heritage of Italy at the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art in Arezzo, showcasing masterpieces from the Middle Ages to modernity.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Osteria I Bottega. This cozy spot was recommended by a local, and it was the perfect way to start our explorations. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, and we indulged in some delicious pastries and savory treats. It was exactly the kind of authentic experience I crave when traveling; a far cry from our usual breakfast in Sarnen, but a welcome change nonetheless!

Fueled and ready, we set off to our first destination: the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art. Housed in the Palazzo Bruni Ciocchi, the museum itself is a work of art. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I was particularly eager to see the collection, and it did not disappoint. The museum is arranged chronologically, which made it easy to follow the evolution of art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Sophie was captivated by the vibrant colors of the Renaissance paintings, while Hans appreciated the intricate details of the medieval sculptures. I was personally drawn to the works by Giorgio Vasari, whose artistic legacy is so deeply intertwined with this region. It's fascinating to see how the history of a place is reflected in its art, and the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art provided a rich tapestry of Arezzo's cultural heritage.

The past is never dead. It's not even past. - William Faulkner

Leaving the museum, we strolled through the charming streets of Arezzo, making our way towards Santa Maria della Pieve. This church, with its distinctive Romanesque architecture, is one of the symbols of Arezzo. As we approached, I was immediately struck by the unique façade, adorned with a series of loggias and intricately carved columns. The church dates back to the 12th century, and it's built on the site of an even older religious building. Inside, the atmosphere was serene and contemplative. The play of light through the stained-glass windows created a sense of peace, and we took a moment to simply sit and absorb the beauty of our surroundings. The baptismal font, dating back to the 14th century, was particularly noteworthy, with panels depicting the life of St. John the Baptist. I found myself reflecting on the countless generations who had passed through these doors, each leaving their own mark on the history of this sacred place.


Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance of Santa Maria della Pieve, a must-see Catholic church in Arezzo, Italy.

After our visit to Santa Maria della Pieve, hunger called, and we headed to Osteria dei Mercanti for lunch. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it promised an authentic taste of Tuscan cuisine. We were lucky enough to snag a table in their charming garden, surrounded by lemon trees and fragrant herbs. The menu was filled with local specialties, and we decided to share a selection of dishes, from handmade pasta with wild boar ragu to grilled Florentine steak. Every bite was a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the flavors were simply divine. Hans, ever the wine enthusiast, chose a local red to accompany our meal, and it was the perfect complement to the rich, hearty flavors of the food. Sophie, surprisingly, enjoyed the wild boar ragu, a testament to the quality of the ingredients!


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Osteria dei Mercanti in Arezzo - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we made our way to the Roman Amphitheatre of Arezzo. This ancient structure, dating back to the 2nd century AD, is a testament to Arezzo's Roman past. As we approached, I could almost hear the echoes of gladiatorial contests and the roar of the crowds. The amphitheater is remarkably well-preserved, and it's easy to imagine what it must have been like in its heyday. Sophie was fascinated by the vaulted entrances and the remnants of the arena. Hans, with his knowledge of construction, admired the engineering prowess of the Roman builders. I couldn't help but reflect on the rise and fall of empires, and the enduring power of history to shape our present. The amphitheater is located next to the Archaeological Museum, but we decided to save that for another day, perhaps later in the week.


Discover the Roman Amphitheatre of Arezzo, an ancient marvel that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman history amidst the beauty of Tuscany.

As the sun began to set, we decided to treat ourselves to an aperitivo at Divò Cocktail Bar RistoClub. This trendy spot had a lively atmosphere, and the cocktails were creative and delicious. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring, and we enjoyed chatting and laughing as we sipped our drinks. Sophie, of course, opted for a non-alcoholic concoction, but she enjoyed the vibrant ambiance just as much as we did. I even struck up a conversation with a local artist, who shared some fascinating insights into Arezzo's contemporary art scene.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Divò Cocktail Bar RistoClub in Arezzo, where innovative cocktails meet delectable dining in an enchanting setting.

For dinner, we chose Ristorante Logge Vasari, located in the heart of Arezzo. The restaurant is housed in a beautiful historic building, and the atmosphere was elegant and refined. The menu featured classic Tuscan dishes with a modern twist, and we savored every bite. The service was impeccable, and our waiter, Bernaldino, was particularly attentive and friendly. He recommended a local wine that paired perfectly with our meal, and he made us feel like honored guests. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Logge Vasari in Arezzo's historic Piazza Grande.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It's about discovering new places, immersing ourselves in different cultures, and creating lasting memories with my family. Arezzo has exceeded all my expectations, and I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We plan to visit the Medici Fortress Park, Palazzo dei Priori, and Passeggio del Prato. I am also hoping we can do some shopping! Sophie is keen to explore the WOW! Vintage Shop, which sounds right up her street.

As I sit here writing this, I feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Arezzo. It's a place that has captured my heart, and I know that I'll cherish these memories for years to come. And who knows, perhaps one day I'll even uncover some hidden gems in the local archives that will shed new light on the history of this fascinating city. Until then, I'll continue to explore, learn, and share my experiences with you, my dear readers.

Tomorrow, we delve further into Arezzo's historical tapestry with visits to the Medici Fortress Park, Palazzo dei Priori, and Passeggio del Prato. I'm particularly excited about the Medici Fortress Park; I've read it offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Sophie, with her keen eye for fashion, is eager to explore WOW! Vintage Shop. I suspect Hans will enjoy a leisurely stroll through Passeggio del Prato, soaking in the atmosphere. We'll be sure to sample more of Arezzo's culinary delights, with breakfast at Le Chiavi D'Oro ristorante, lunch at Trattoria Il Saraceno, and dinner at Essenza Dario e Anna - dal 1964. Each day here feels like uncovering another layer of history and culture, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.