After exploring the hidden treasures of the Antiques Fair and witnessing the medieval splendor of the Giostra del Saracino, it’s time to slow down and immerse ourselves in the quieter, yet equally captivating side of Arezzo — its deep historical roots and rich cultural identity.
Those who have been here know: Arezzo is not just a backdrop — it’s living history.
This picturesque Tuscan town played a starring role in Roberto Benigni’s Oscar-winning film Life is Beautiful. The film’s most iconic scenes were shot in Piazza Grande, the heart of Arezzo. Once a medieval marketplace, this sloping red-brick square is now alive with café-scented mornings, antique shops, and travelers soaking up centuries of architecture — from Gothic to Renaissance. And yes, Vasari’s elegant loggia still stands tall, under which my favorite local restaurant quietly resides (but I’ve already told that story…).
Above the city, a hilltop park offers a peaceful retreat — shaded trees, stone statues, children playing calcio, and panoramic views that stretch endlessly over the Tuscan countryside. At the edge of this green haven lies a solemn, beautifully kept cemetery, a place of quiet dignity.
No visit to Arezzo is complete without stepping into its historic soul: the many churches, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Medici Fortress — built in the 16th century, now softened into a leafy park. In 2020, the fortress and surrounding areas hosted monumental marble sculptures by Italian artist Fabio Viale — merging ancient material with provocative, modern designs. A surreal experience, perfectly echoing Arezzo’s dual nature.
And then, there’s the Chimera — one of Arezzo’s most enigmatic symbols. This mythical bronze creature with a lion’s body, serpent tail, and goat’s head was unearthed in 1553. Though the original is now housed in Florence, replicas appear throughout the city: at the train station, on San Lorentino Gate, and even woven into Arezzo’s flag. More mysterious than frightening, the Chimera feels like a spirit of the city itself — timeless, layered, symbolic.
For lovers of art, a visit to the Casa Vasari is a must. This 16th-century home belonged to Giorgio Vasari — painter, architect, and writer — and now serves as a museum. Inside, you’ll find frescoed walls, period furniture, and a stunning collection of Renaissance paintings. Walking through the rooms, you feel surrounded by Vasari’s very thoughts and inspirations.
Equally unmissable is the Roman Amphitheatre, built in the 1st century AD. Though only remnants remain, it still holds a quiet majesty. Right beside it, the Archaeological Museum offers a deeper look into Arezzo’s ancient past.
And finally — a glimpse into the future: the fourth and final chapter of this series will arrive in December. I’ll return to Arezzo during Advent, when the city sparkles with Christmas lights and the scent of mulled wine fills the air. But let’s wait for winter — for now, the summer heat bakes the cobbled streets, and nobody’s in the mood for hot chocolate.
I won’t simply return to Arezzo — I feel that Arezzo calls me back, as it already has many times during the festive season.