DUOMO
Arezzo's imposing Gothic cathedral stands atop a hill, overlooking the entire town.
Arezzo Cathedral stands on the top of a hill in the upper part of the city, on the foundations of an ancient early Christian church where a Roman acropolis probably stood. Begun in Gothic style in the 13th century, the construction of the dome, dedicated to Saints Peter and Donatus, was not completed until three centuries later, in 1511, after many cycles of transformation. Its bell tower with high twin windows, designed by Luigi Mercanti, was built between 1857 and 1859. The last reconstruction of the facade was carried out between 1901 and 1914 on a project by Viviani to replace the one that was never completed and dates back to the 15th century.
Dominating the city, this imposing building with three naves, without a transept, has seven very beautiful stained glass windows created by the Berry monk and master glassmaker, Guillaume de Marcillat. The French artist worked between Arezzo and Cortona from 1516. This masterpiece of glass art was created in two phases, between 1516 and 1517, then between 1522 and 1524. These illustrious biblical stories can be admired in the vaults of the first three bays of the main nave and the first bay on the left aisle.
Inside, there is also the small but famous fresco of Mary Magdalene by Piero della Francesca (15th century), enamelled terracotta sculptures by Andrea della Robbia, as well as the tombs of Bishop Guido Tarlati, of the 14th century, and Pope Gregory X, who died in Arezzo in 1276.
Did you know? This review was written by our professional authors.
Book the Best Activities with Get Your Guide
Members' reviews on DUOMO
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
Le travail des différents artistes qui ont contribué à embellir cette cathédrale est de toute beauté.
Le syndrome de Stendhal n'est pas loin...