Arezzo, a city to discover on foot
A historic centre rich in art and tradition:
Before discovering the Church of San Michele, it is important to know that Arezzo is a city that surprises visitors with its authenticity and rich artistic and cultural heritage. Less crowded than other Tuscan destinations, it retains the charm of a lived-in city of art, where every corner tells a story. Founded by the Etruscans and later becoming an important Roman centre, it has passed through the centuries leaving visible traces of its past in monuments, churches, palaces and panoramic views.
Strolling through the historic centre of Arezzo means immersing yourself in a timeless atmosphere, among cobbled alleys, artisan workshops and squares that have been the backdrop for films such as Life is Beautiful. Different eras coexist harmoniously here: from classical antiquity to the Middle Ages, from the Renaissance to the neo-Gothic period, with a common thread of elegance and spirituality permeating every building.
The city is famous for the Basilica of San Francesco with frescoes by Piero della Francesca, Piazza Grande with its irregular architecture, and the Duomo, which dominates the city from above. But in addition to these well-known destinations, Arezzo has many lesser-known treasures that deserve attention. One of these is the Church of San Michele, one of the oldest in the city, located right in the heart of the historic centre.
Corso Italia and the treasures of the historic centre:
The heart of Arezzo beats along Corso Italia, the ancient Borgo Maestro, which crosses the historic centre from north to south, connecting the main points of interest in the city. This elegant uphill street is lined with medieval buildings, historic shops, cafés and churches that tell centuries of history and bear witness to the cultural and religious importance that Arezzo has held over time.
Walking along Corso Italia, you will come across architectural gems such as the Palazzo Pretorio, with its striking façade decorated with coats of arms, and the Pieve di Santa Maria, one of the most fascinating Romanesque buildings in Tuscany. Every step reveals a detail, a doorway, a fresco or a window that unveils the city’s past.
It is in this context that the Church of San Michele stands, overlooking a small square along the street. Despite its central location, it is often overlooked by hurried tourists, remaining a quiet and charming place. However, attentive visitors cannot help but stop to admire its neo-Gothic façade and be intrigued by its thousand-year history, which has its roots in the Lombard era.
This stop is the perfect place to slow down and capture the authentic essence of Arezzo: a city that reveals itself calmly, among ancient stones and hidden details.
The Church of San Michele, a hidden gem among ancient stones:
In the heart of the historic centre of Arezzo, hidden among the imposing architecture of Corso Italia, stands the Church of Saints Michele and Adriano, better known as the Church of San Michele. At first glance, it might go unnoticed, but just pause for a moment to appreciate its simple elegance and the intimate atmosphere that surrounds it.
The church stands in a small square, almost protected from the hustle and bustle of the main street. Its origins probably date back to the Lombard era, between the 7th and 8th centuries, when the cult of the Archangel Michael was particularly widespread. Over time, the building has undergone numerous transformations, passing from Romanesque to Gothic, until it took on its neo-Gothic appearance in the 20th century, which it still retains today thanks to the intervention of architect Giuseppe Castellucci.
Despite the architectural changes and historical vicissitudes, San Michele has managed to maintain a strong and recognisable identity. Its façade, embellished with a modern mosaic depicting Christ the King between Saints Michael and Adrian, leads to an interior that is sober but rich in works of art that tell of centuries of faith and creativity.
Discovering this church means coming into contact with an intimate and lesser-known part of Arezzo. It is an exciting stop, especially because it reveals itself only to those who have the time and desire to look beyond the surface.
From its Lombard origins to its neo-Gothic façade:
The Church of San Michele, now also dedicated to Sant’Adriano, is one of the oldest religious buildings in Arezzo. Its origins probably date back to the Lombard era, between the 7th and 8th centuries, when the cult of the Archangel Michael was widespread among the Germanic peoples. The first documents attesting to its existence date back to the 11th century, and as early as 1095, the church was listed as the property of the Camaldolese monks, with a small monastery attached.
Over time, the building underwent several architectural phases: in 1150, it was renovated in Romanesque style, while in the 14th century, it was enlarged in Gothic style, with the addition of chapels and decorations. At the beginning of the 15th century, it also obtained the title of abbey, confirming its central role in the religious life of the city.
The 16th century marked a period of decline, but in the following century new restoration work began, until the monastery was suppressed in 1652. In 1786, the church was given the additional title of Sant’Adriano. However, its current appearance is due to the work of Giuseppe Castellucci in the early 1930s, who gave it an imposing neo-Gothic façade enriched with a mosaic depicting Christ the King between Saints Michael and Adrian.
Today, every stone of the church tells a story spanning over a thousand years of transformations, spirituality and art.
Cento Passi dal Duomo: the perfect place to stay to explore Arezzo
Everything within walking distance:
Staying at the B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo means being in the heart of Arezzo, with all the main points of interest literally a few steps away. The location of the property is strategic: in a few minutes on foot you can reach Piazza Grande, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Donatus, the Basilica of San Francesco and, of course, the Church of San Michele, the protagonist of this itinerary.
The beauty of Arezzo also lies in its compact size, perfect for exploring at a leisurely pace on foot. From Cento Passi dal Duomo, you can get around without a car or public transport, discovering hidden corners, artisan workshops, museums and churches nestled among cobbled streets and historic buildings.
This proximity to all the cultural attractions allows you to experience Arezzo in an authentic and relaxed way, following your own pace and letting yourself be surprised by the city. Whether it’s a short morning stroll or an evening return after a day of art, everything is within walking distance.
Choosing Cento Passi dal Duomo means having the historic centre around you.
Comfort, hospitality and style in the heart of Arezzo:
Cento Passi dal Duomo is not only an ideal starting point for visiting the city, but also a place to relax and feel at home. Located in an elegant historic building, the B&B combines old-world charm with modern comforts, offering tastefully furnished rooms with attention to detail, designed to ensure a pleasant and rejuvenating stay.
The atmosphere is intimate and welcoming, perfect for those seeking tranquillity after a day spent visiting museums, churches and strolling through the historic centre. Every morning, guests can start the day with a wholesome breakfast before immersing themselves in the wonders of the city.
The attentive and friendly service makes your stay even more special, with personalised suggestions on what to see and where to eat. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a cultural weekend or a stopover on a longer trip, Cento Passi dal Duomo is the ideal choice for experiencing Arezzo in the most authentic way, with the convenience of having everything at your fingertips and the beauty of feeling warmly welcomed.