A Journey Through Sacred Art and Spirituality with the mosto beautiful Churches in Arezzo
Arezzo is one of the Tuscan cities where sacred art has left a deep and lasting imprint. Walking along its stone streets, visitors come across churches and basilicas that reflect centuries of faith, architecture, and artistic brilliance. In a single day, it is possible to take a journey through history, admiring masterpieces by Cimabue, Piero della Francesca, and Giorgio Vasari in evocative, silent spaces where time seems to stand still.
This itinerary will guide you through the six most fascinating churches in Arezzo’s historic center, all easily reachable on foot within minutes of one another. The route begins atop the hill where the imposing Cathedral stands, then descends toward the Basilica of San Domenico, the Pieve of Santa Maria, San Francesco, and the Badia. A path of spirituality and beauty that finds its ideal starting (and returning) point at B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo.
The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Donatus: Arezzo’s Gothic Treasure
The Cathedral of Arezzo rises on the Colle di San Pietro, with its majestic neo-Gothic façade and 13th-century polygonal apse overlooking the Prato. Inside, the three naves preserve remarkable treasures: the fresco of Mary Magdalene by Piero della Francesca, the richly decorated Chapel of the Madonna del Conforto, and the marble Ark of Saint Donatus, which houses the saint’s relics.
Visitors can also admire the vibrant stained-glass windows by Guillaume de Marcillat and the Renaissance organ designed by Vasari. A place of deep devotion and timeless beauty, the Cathedral is a must-see for anyone interested in sacred art.
San Domenico and Cimabue’s Crucifix: A Gothic Masterpiece
The Basilica of San Domenico may appear plain from the outside, but inside it holds one of the most significant works of early Italian painting: the Crucifix by Cimabue, a youthful masterpiece that heralds the dawn of modern art.
The interior features numerous 14th- and 15th-century frescoes by Spinello Aretino, Parri di Spinello, and others, depicting saints, martyrs, and episodes of faith. The solemn, austere atmosphere of the church invites quiet reflection. This is a crucial stop for anyone seeking to understand the roots of Tuscan sacred art.
Stay at B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo: In the Heart of Beauty
Nestled in the heart of the historic center, just steps away from the Cathedral and all of Arezzo’s most beautiful churches, B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo offers a refined and welcoming retreat. Its location is perfect for visitors who want to explore the city on foot, without the hassle of transportation. Every room is inspired by a historical figure tied to Arezzo – such as Giorgio Vasari, Piero della Francesca, Francesco Petrarca, and Guido Monaco – and designed with elegance, comfort, and unique character.
With air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, included breakfast, private entrance, and personal tourist assistance, your stay will be both relaxing and practical. After a day among frescoes, chapels, and sacred architecture, returning to the B&B means finding peace and restoration. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Cento Passi dal Duomo is the perfect base for discovering the most authentic soul of Arezzo.
Santa Maria della Pieve: The Elegance of Aretine Romanesque
Overlooking Corso Italia, the Pieve of Santa Maria Assunta is one of Arezzo’s most iconic landmarks and among the most beautiful churches in Arezzo. Its Romanesque façade, with three levels of unique columns and arches, is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Inside, the solemn atmosphere is enriched by important artworks such as Pietro Lorenzetti’s Polyptych and the Crucifix by Margarito d’Arezzo.
In the crypt below lies the ornate silver bust reliquary of Saint Donatus. Santa Maria della Pieve is a space filled with silence, spirituality, and historic beauty – an essential stop on any visit to the city.
The Basilica of San Francesco and the Genius of Piero della Francesca
At the heart of Arezzo, the Basilica of San Francesco houses one of the greatest masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance and one of the most beautiful churches of the city: Piero della Francesca’s Legend of the True Cross. This extraordinary cycle of frescoes in the Bacci Chapel is admired worldwide for its narrative depth and visual harmony.
The basilica’s single nave also contains important 14th- and 15th-century frescoes by Spinello Aretino and others, all contributing to the sacred and contemplative atmosphere. For lovers of art and history, San Francesco is a place that inspires awe and reflection.
The Badia of Saints Flora and Lucilla: Between Renaissance and Baroque Illusion in one of the most hidden churches of Arezzo
Just a short walk from Piazza del Popolo, the Church of the Badia delle Sante Flora e Lucilla is a hidden gem of artistic and spiritual heritage. Its highlight is the main altar by Giorgio Vasari and the breathtaking trompe-l’œil dome painted by Andrea Pozzo in 1702.
Inside, visitors will find Baroque and Renaissance works by Mazzaroppi, Jacques Stella, Lappoli, and Bartolomeo della Gatta. The Badia offers a rich visual journey through the history of sacred art in one of Arezzo’s most captivating buildings.
End Your Day with a Stay to Remember at B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo
After a day immersed in frescoes, relics, and timeless architecture, there’s no better way to unwind than returning to the peace and comfort of B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo. Here, every detail is designed to make your stay pleasant and memorable. Each room combines historical inspiration with modern hospitality, ensuring a cozy, well-equipped base from which to explore the city.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with loved ones, you’ll enjoy a warm atmosphere and a location that allows you to reach Arezzo’s most beautiful churches within minutes. Waking up surrounded by centuries of history is a rare privilege – book your stay now and experience the charm and authenticity of Cento Passi dal Duomo.