The Cathedral of Arezzo is the city’s premier religious landmark. The imposing structure, which can be seen from most parts of the city, is Gothic in style. Meet friends on the steps of the church and study the important ecclesiastical artworks held inside.
Bring your camera to take photos of this Gothic masterpiece, which sits on the crest of a hill high above the city. Not only is it impressive to look at, but it also serves as a landmark to help you get your bearings while exploring the town.
The cathedral stands on the site of a pre-existing Christian church. Although work on the cathedral commenced in the 1200s, construction continued until the 16th century and it wasn’t finished until the 20th century. In Italian, it is known as Cattedrale di San Donato.
Survey the cathedral’s façade, a 20th-century addition based on a design by architect Dante Viviani. The frontage features sculptures as well as an elegant rose window.
Enter the church via its large central portal to see the elaborate nave and vaulted ceiling. Inspect the beautiful stained-glass windows, some of which were created by famous French stained-glass artist Guillaume de Marcillat. Further artistic stained-glass windows, one by Marcillat and another by early 15th-century Florentine artists, can be seen in the presbytery.
View the acclaimed fresco of Mary Magdalene by early Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca in the left aisle of the nave. Near the high altar is the magnificent tomb of martyred St. Donatus, which is decorated with marble reliefs portraying scenes from the saint’s life.
Stroll east from the cathedral to reach the scenic Il Prato park, an ideal picnic spot. At its center is the Francesco Petrarca Monument, which honors the 14th-century poet and “Father of Humanism” Petrarch.
The Cathedral of Arezzo is in the northern section of the city center and is open daily. Walk northeast for 10 minutes from the Piazza Guido Monaco to get here. The cathedral is close to other well-known city attractions such as the Communal Palace and the Santa Maria della Pieve church.
