Sansepolcro​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 22 November 2023
​The historic town of Sansepolcro is situated within the Province of Arezzo and has a population of around 16,000.

Standing at an elevation of 330 metres above sea level, it's located a distance of 113 kilometres south east of Florence, the regional capital of Tuscany. Nearby places of interest include Anghiari, Monterchi, Arezzo and Castiglion Fiorentino.
Related links
Profile
Sansepolcro, also known as Borgo Sansepolcro, is a charming town located in the eastern part of Tuscany, Italy. Situated in the province of Arezzo, Sansepolcro offers visitors a rich historical heritage, artistic treasures, and a welcoming Tuscan atmosphere. The town is famous for being the birthplace of the renowned Renaissance painter Piero della Francesca, adding to its cultural significance.
History
Sansepolcro's history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of Etruscan and Roman settlements in the area. During the Middle Ages, it became an important center for trade and culture and played a strategic role in the battles between the Guelfs and Ghibellines. The town's name, "Sansepolcro," derives from "Holy Sepulchre," referring to the supposed relics of the Holy Sepulchre brought to the town in the 10th century.

During the Renaissance, Sansepolcro flourished as an artistic hub, attracting renowned artists like Piero della Francesca. The town's historical significance is evident in its well-preserved medieval walls, buildings, and art collections.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Museo Civico di Sansepolcro: Visit the Civic Museum of Sansepolcro, which houses an impressive collection of artworks, including masterpieces by Piero della Francesca. The museum also features archaeological artifacts and historical items.
  • Piero della Francesca Trail: Follow the Piero della Francesca Trail to explore the places associated with the life and works of the renowned artist, including the Church of San Francesco, where his famous "Resurrection" fresco is located.
  • Piazza Torre di Berta: Explore the central square of Sansepolcro, Piazza Torre di Berta, surrounded by charming buildings and the town's medieval tower.
  • Palazzo delle Laudi: Admire the Palazzo delle Laudi, a historical building that now houses the town's library and cultural center.
  • Sansepolcro Cathedral: Visit the town's cathedral, Cattedrale di San Giovanni Evangelista, with its striking façade and beautiful interior.
  • Local Cuisine: Taste traditional Tuscan dishes at the town's restaurants and trattorias, where you can savor local specialties and wines.
  • Festivals and Events: Experience the local culture and traditions by attending one of Sansepolcro's festivals and events, such as the Palio della Balestra, a medieval crossbow competition.
Comune di Sansepolcro
Province: Arezzo

Region: Tuscany

Population: 15,444​​​ ​(source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)

Size: 91 km²

Elevation: 330 metres

​Close by: Anghiari, Monterchi, Arezzo, Castiglion Fiorentino

Recommended accommodation: Hotel ​​​Relais Palazzo di Luglio

Sansepolcro​​  Gallery

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.