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Santa Maria della Pieve is one of the most historically significant and architecturally fascinating churches in Arezzo, Tuscany. Located just a few steps from the famous Piazza Grande, this Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century and stands as a symbol of the city鈥檚 medieval religious devotion and artistic heritage. With its striking facade featuring multiple rows of intricately carved columns, and an interior rich with historical and spiritual significance, Santa Maria della Pieve offers visitors a meaningful journey into Arezzo鈥檚 religious past.
The church is located in the historic center of Arezzo, on Corso Italia, just above Piazza Grande. If you鈥檙e arriving by train, it鈥檚 about a 15-minute walk from the Arezzo railway station. From the station, walk straight up Via Guido Monaco and follow the signs to the historic center. Once you reach Corso Italia, continue uphill until you see the stunning columns of the church鈥檚 facade. If you鈥檙e arriving by car, the nearest parking options include Parcheggio Pietri and Parcheggio Eden, both of which are about a 10-minute walk from the church. Local buses and taxis are also available from the train station to the nearby square.
Arezzo enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which makes it pleasant to visit year-round. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures range from 28掳C to 34掳C (82掳F to 93掳F), and the weather is generally sunny鈥攑erfect for strolling through the old town and visiting churches. Spring and autumn are milder, with average temperatures from 15掳C to 25掳C (59掳F to 77掳F), offering ideal conditions for sightseeing. Winter months (December to February) are cooler and may include occasional rain, with temperatures from 5掳C to 10掳C (41掳F to 50掳F), but the church remains open and offers a cozy atmosphere sheltered from the elements.
Santa Maria della Pieve is usually open daily, and entrance to the church itself is free. Typical visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, although these hours can change slightly depending on the time of year or religious services. On Sundays and religious holidays, visitors are welcome to attend Mass, but tourist visits during services may be limited out of respect for worshippers. Guided tours are available through the Arezzo tourist office, and sometimes include a visit to the bell tower, which offers incredible views over the city for a small fee.
Arezzo is one of Tuscany鈥檚 most historic and culturally rich cities. It was once a powerful Etruscan settlement and later became an important Roman and medieval town. The city is renowned for its artistic heritage, including masterpieces by Piero della Francesca and Giorgio Vasari. Arezzo also hosts one of Italy鈥檚 largest antique fairs and the famous medieval jousting festival, the Giostra del Saracino. The city鈥檚 many churches, towers, and noble homes speak to its affluent past, and Santa Maria della Pieve stands as one of its finest religious and architectural landmarks.
The church is open to all visitors and there is no fee for general entry. While visiting, you can admire the impressive Romanesque architecture, the richly decorated apse, and various sculptures and artworks within. The crypt is also accessible and contains ancient relics, including those of Saint Donatus, the patron saint of Arezzo. The bell tower, often referred to as the "Tower of a Hundred Holes," is sometimes open to the public and can be climbed for panoramic views. Donations are welcome to help with the upkeep of this historic site.
Santa Maria della Pieve was originally built in the 12th century and underwent several renovations and additions over the following centuries. The most notable aspect of the church is its Romanesque facade, which features three levels of loggias with intricately carved columns, each one different from the others. The central portal is adorned with sculpted reliefs that depict religious scenes, saints, and biblical figures.
Inside the church, you鈥檒l find a Latin-cross plan with three naves divided by columns and arches. The high altar is beautifully decorated and illuminated by stained glass windows. One of the highlights is the 13th-century polyptych by Pietro Lorenzetti, located behind the altar. The crypt beneath the apse contains relics of Saint Donatus, and this sacred area dates back even earlier than the current church, possibly to the 8th century. The bell tower, rebuilt in the 16th century, is known for its five rows of windows, giving it a unique and recognizable silhouette.
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In conclusion, Santa Maria della Pieve is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and a living monument to the spiritual and artistic history of Arezzo. Its unique facade, rich interior, and ancient relics make it one of the city鈥檚 most captivating sites. Whether you are interested in religion, art, or history, this church offers a profound and unforgettable experience right in the heart of Tuscany.
