Arezzo Province
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By Dion Protani
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The Arezzo Province occupies a total geographical area of 3,233 square kilometres including the city of Arezzo itself, the provincial capital.
Within the province there are 36 provincial towns, known as communes (comune singular or comuni plural in Italian), which contain a total population of around 342,000 inhabitants. |
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Among the highlights of the province are the towns of Cortona, Poppi and Loro Ciuffenna, as well as the religious sanctuary of La Verna and the Casentino region.
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Arezzo Province • Tuscany • Central Italy
The province of Arezzo is located in the southeastern part of Tuscany, bordered by Umbria to the north and Lazio to the south. It is a region rich in history, art, and natural beauty, offering visitors a blend of medieval towns, rolling hills, and charming landscapes. Arezzo, the provincial capital, is a city that showcases Tuscany's cultural heritage, with its impressive monuments, traditional craftsmanship, and vibrant atmosphere.
Arezzo itself is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the stunning Piazza Grande, a picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings and home to the famous monthly antiques market. The city also boasts the Basilica di San Francesco, where visitors can see the renowned frescoes by Piero della Francesca, and the magnificent Cathedral of Arezzo, with its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate details. The town is also known for its connection to goldsmithing, with workshops producing exquisite jewellery and metalwork that has become a hallmark of the region.
The surrounding province offers many other attractions. The town of Cortona, perched on a hilltop, is known for its ancient Etruscan history, stunning views of the Val di Chiana, and charming streets filled with art galleries and local shops. The Valdarno area, with its picturesque villages and vineyards, offers excellent opportunities for wine tasting and exploring the Tuscan countryside. The province is also home to several natural parks, including the Parco delle Foreste Casentinesi, which provides trails for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the serenity of the forests. With its mix of historical sites, scenic landscapes, and artistic traditions, the province of Arezzo offers a rich and rewarding experience for those visiting Tuscany.
Arezzo itself is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the stunning Piazza Grande, a picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings and home to the famous monthly antiques market. The city also boasts the Basilica di San Francesco, where visitors can see the renowned frescoes by Piero della Francesca, and the magnificent Cathedral of Arezzo, with its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate details. The town is also known for its connection to goldsmithing, with workshops producing exquisite jewellery and metalwork that has become a hallmark of the region.
The surrounding province offers many other attractions. The town of Cortona, perched on a hilltop, is known for its ancient Etruscan history, stunning views of the Val di Chiana, and charming streets filled with art galleries and local shops. The Valdarno area, with its picturesque villages and vineyards, offers excellent opportunities for wine tasting and exploring the Tuscan countryside. The province is also home to several natural parks, including the Parco delle Foreste Casentinesi, which provides trails for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the serenity of the forests. With its mix of historical sites, scenic landscapes, and artistic traditions, the province of Arezzo offers a rich and rewarding experience for those visiting Tuscany.
Highlights
- Arezzo: The provincial capital, Arezzo, is a beautiful city with well-preserved medieval architecture. The Piazza Grande is a must-visit, hosting the Vasari Loggia and the Gothic-style Santa Maria della Pieve church. The city's historical center also features the impressive Cathedral of Arezzo and the Medici Fortress.
- Cortona: This ancient hilltop town boasts breathtaking views of the Valdichiana Valley. Cortona is famous for its Etruscan heritage, with an archaeological museum showcasing artifacts from that era. It was also featured in the book and movie "Under the Tuscan Sun."
- Val d'Orcia: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a picturesque valley characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, cypress trees, and charming medieval towns like Pienza and Montalcino. The landscape of Val d'Orcia has inspired many artists throughout the centuries.
- Casentino Forests, Monte Falterona, and Campigna National Park: This protected area offers stunning natural beauty, with dense forests, mountain trails, and the source of the Arno River. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers.
- Medieval Villages: Arezzo Province is dotted with enchanting medieval villages, such as Anghiari, Monterchi, and Lucignano, where time seems to stand still, and visitors can immerse themselves in the region's history and charm.
- Gastronomy: Arezzo Province is renowned for its delicious Tuscan cuisine, including dishes like pappa al pomodoro, ribollita, and the famous Chianina beef. Local wines, such as Chianti and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, complement the culinary experience.
- Cultural Events: Arezzo hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the renowned Giostra del Saracino, a medieval jousting tournament held in June and September.
- Antiques Market: Arezzo is known for its monthly Antiques Fair, one of the largest in Italy, attracting collectors and antique enthusiasts from all over the country.
Provincia di Arezzo
Neighbouring provinces: Metropolitan City of Florence, Siena, Forlì-Cesena, Pesaro and Urbino, Perugia
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Neighbouring regions: Emilia Romagna, Marche, Umbria
