Discover Arezzo: a city of art and history
Before setting off to discover the Church of San Michele, immerse yourself with us in the unique and authentic atmosphere of the historic centre of Arezzo.
An Etruscan city in the heart of Tuscany
Arezzo is one of the lesser-known Tuscan cities, but this is precisely why it is an authentic and surprising destination for those who want to discover the true soul of the region.
Founded by the Etruscans and later becoming an important Roman centre, Arezzo still preserves an extraordinary artistic and architectural heritage that bears witness to its long history. Strolling through the historic centre, you can breathe in a unique atmosphere, among cobbled alleys, medieval palaces, artisan workshops and panoramic views that seem suspended in time.
In addition to the more famous sites such as the Basilica of San Francesco with its frescoes by Piero della Francesca, Piazza Grande and the Duomo, Arezzo is home to many hidden treasures that will surprise even the most experienced traveller. One of these is the Church of San Michele, located along Corso Italia, one of the oldest and most fascinating streets in the city.
This religious building, often overlooked by tourists, tells a thousand-year-old story of transformation, art and devotion. Visiting Arezzo also means taking the time to lose yourself in its lesser-known corners, discovering places steeped in history and spirituality, such as this church dedicated to San Michele and Sant’Adriano. It is precisely this ability to combine art, tranquillity and authenticity that makes Arezzo an ideal destination for those seeking beauty without frenzy, in the heart of the most authentic Tuscany.
Lombard origins and medieval transformations
The Church of San Michele, located in the square of the same name along Corso Italia, is one of the oldest religious buildings in Arezzo. Its foundation probably dates back to the Lombard era, between the 7th and 8th centuries, at a time when the cult of the Archangel Michael was particularly strong. The first official documents attesting to its existence date back to the 11th century, when the church is mentioned as “San Michele de Plateola” and is already linked to the Camaldolese monks, together with the small monastery adjacent to it.
In 1150, the building was renovated in accordance with Romanesque canons and officially became a parish church. This first major architectural intervention defined the basis of the current structure. However, it was in the first half of the 14th century that the church underwent the most significant transformations, with its enlargement and the introduction of Gothic elements: chapels, frescoes and new decorations were added, giving it a more slender and solemn appearance.
Over time, the church continued to be modified: it received the title of abbey at the beginning of the 15th century, experienced a period of decline in the 16th century and was restored again at the end of the century. This continuous dialogue between eras and styles has left a visible and fascinating mark on every corner of the building.
Masterpieces of art among altars, frescoes and sculptures
Despite the numerous architectural transformations it has undergone over the centuries, the Church of San Michele still preserves a precious artistic heritage that tells its long and fascinating history. The interior, with a single nave, is a perfect example of a fusion between Romanesque and Gothic styles, with exposed beams and a simple but evocative layout.
The most important work is undoubtedly the altarpiece, created by Neri di Bicci in 1466. The artist, heir to a renowned Florentine workshop, depicts the Madonna and Child enthroned between Saints Michael, Benedict, John the Baptist and Romuald, with a Crucifixion at the feet of the protagonists. It is an elegant and spiritual composition, emblematic of 15th-century Florentine painting.
Along the side walls are numerous other noteworthy works. On the left, a detached fresco from the second half of the 14th century depicts the Virgin and Child and is attributed to Andrea di Nerio, although some scholars link it to the young Spinello Aretino. In the same area, there is also a small painting of the Crucifixion, a panel of the Sacred Heart of Jesus by Aldo Dragoni (1941), and a polychrome wooden crucifix from the late 17th century, from the Tuscan school but with northern influences.
On the right, there is an altarpiece depicting the Madonna Regina della Pace (Queen of Peace) between St. Francis and St. Catherine of Siena, also by Dragoni, and a Birth of the Virgin from 1640 painted by Bernardino Santini.
Visit Arezzo while staying in the historic centre
All the art attractions within walking distance
Staying in the historic centre of Arezzo means having an artistic and cultural heritage of extraordinary value at your fingertips. From Antiche Mura, it takes just a few minutes on foot to reach the main points of interest in the city, without the need for a car or public transport. The Church of San Michele, the highlight of this itinerary, is located a short distance away, along Corso Italia, and is just one of the many wonders you can discover as you walk through the cobbled streets of the centre.
Within a few hundred metres, you will find the Basilica of San Francesco, with its famous cycle of frescoes by Piero della Francesca, Piazza Grande, the medieval heart of the city, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Donatus, with its stained glass windows, and the Museum of Medieval and Modern Art, housed in an ancient Renaissance palace.
This concentration of historical beauty makes Arezzo an ideal city to explore on foot, letting yourself be guided by curiosity and the charm of the unexpected. Antiche Mura offers the perfect starting point to experience all this at your own pace, without rushing, fully enjoying the authenticity of a city still untouched by mass tourism.
Antiche Mura: comfort and authenticity in an ideal location
Choosing Antiche Mura as your base for your stay in Arezzo means experiencing the city from a privileged position. Located in the heart of the historic centre, a few steps from the main monuments and the Church of San Michele, the B&B combines the convenience of a strategic location with the charm of a carefully restored historic building. The rooms are cosy and carefully furnished, offering an intimate and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for those who want to feel at home even when travelling.
Every morning, you can start your day with a wholesome breakfast before setting off to explore the city centre. Whether you are an art lover, a curious traveller or simply looking for peace and quiet, Antiche Mura is the ideal choice for experiencing Arezzo at a leisurely pace, with authenticity and maximum comfort.
