Arezzo: The Hidden Jewel of Tuscany

• HelloCiao
  [chow]
• GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ar-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
• YesSì
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pehr fah-voh-reh/preh-goh]
• Thank youGrazie
  [graht-zee-eh]
• Excuse me/SorryScusi/Mi dispiace
  [scoo-zee/mee dee-spyah-cheh]
• How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stah-ee]
• Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh/ay too]
• Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-lee een-gleh-zeh]
• I don't understandNon capisco
  [nohn kah-pee-skoh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vohr-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pehr fah-voh-reh]
• I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [nohn mahn-joh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-ray pah-gah-reh, pehr fah-voh-reh]

• Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
• Go away!Vai via!
  [vah-ee vee-ah]
• Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kyah-mah lah poh-lee-tsya]
• Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kyah-mah oon doht-toh-reh]
• I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pehr-soh]
• I'm illSto male
  [stoh mah-leh]

• I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-ray kohm-prah-reh]
• I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwar-dahn-doh]
• How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
• That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwah-ee ahb-bahs-sah-reh eel preh-tsoh]

• What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
• It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
• Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezzo
  [soh-noh leh dee-eh-chee eh meh-tsoh]
• MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
• AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
• EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
• TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
• TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Due
  [doo-eh]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
• 6Sei
  [say]
• 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
• 8Otto
  [oh-toh]
• 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
• 10Dieci
  [dee-eh-chee]

• Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [doh-veh]
• What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-reet-soh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwah-ee mohs-trar-mee (soo-lah mahp-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohs-shee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-lyeh-toh (pehr)]

Arezzo, one of the twelve major Etruscan cities, boasts a rich history dating back to the 9th century BC. The Etruscans, known for their advanced culture, built the city on a strategic hilltop location and developed it into an important trading hub. Numerous archaeological findings, such as the Chimera of Arezzo, reveal the artistic and cultural achievements of this ancient civilization.

In the 3rd century BC, Arezzo was absorbed into the Roman Republic. It flourished under Roman rule, becoming a vital center for trade and craftsmanship. The city was known for its Arretine ware, a type of fine red pottery that was highly prized across the Roman Empire. The remnants of the Roman amphitheater and other structures still stand as a testament to this prosperous era.

During the Middle Ages, Arezzo underwent significant changes. It became a free commune in the 11th century, experiencing both growth and conflict. The powerful bishopric played a central role in the city’s governance. Renowned figures like Guido of Arezzo, the inventor of modern musical notation, emerged during this period. The medieval architecture, including the imposing Cathedral of Saint Donatus, reflects the city’s evolving identity.

The Renaissance brought a cultural and artistic revival to Arezzo. The city became a hub for Renaissance art and thought, producing illustrious figures such as Giorgio Vasari, the famed painter, architect, and art historian. Vasari's works, along with Piero della Francesca’s frescoes in the Basilica of San Francesco, underscore Arezzo’s contribution to the Renaissance movement. The city’s palazzi and churches from this era highlight its artistic heritage.

The modern history of Arezzo witnessed significant events, including the impact of World War II. The city was a strategic location during the war and suffered considerable damage. Post-war reconstruction efforts restored many historical sites, allowing Arezzo to retain its historical charm while modernizing its infrastructure. Today, Arezzo is a vibrant city that beautifully marries its ancient past with contemporary life.

Arezzo is located in the Tuscany region of Italy. The nearest international airport is Florence Airport (Peretola), approximately 90 kilometers away. From Florence, you can take a direct train to Arezzo, which takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can fly into Rome's Fiumicino Airport, which is about 230 kilometers from Arezzo. From Rome, you can take a train directly to Arezzo, with the journey taking about 2 to 2.5 hours.

Arezzo is well-connected by public transportation. The city has an efficient bus system that covers most areas. Taxis are also readily available, and you can find taxi stands near major tourist spots and the train station. Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding Tuscan countryside. For short distances within the city, walking is a pleasant way to get around, especially in the historic center.

The official currency in Italy is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Arezzo, including in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit smaller establishments. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout the city.

Arezzo is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuable items. Be cautious of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport. There are no specific high-crime areas in Arezzo targeting tourists, but it's always smart to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, you can dial 112, the European emergency number, for immediate assistance. Arezzo has several medical facilities and pharmacies where you can receive help. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress stylishly and modestly; Italians appreciate good fashion sense. Avoid overly casual attire when dining out. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses to avoid fines. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don't rush through meals; dining is a cherished experience in Italy.

To experience Arezzo like a local, visit the Piazza Grande, especially during the monthly antique fair. Wander through the historic center and explore its medieval streets. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss the frescoes by Piero della Francesca in the Basilica of San Francesco. For a unique experience, participate in the Giostra del Saracino, a medieval jousting festival held in June and September.