Most famous above all for the true story of the cross and a cycle of frescoes by Piero della Francesca in the chapel
LORENZO TESTI
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22 Marzo 2025
10,0
The Basilica of San Francesco in Arezzo is a stunning example of medieval architecture and a treasure trove of Renaissance art.
Historical Background
The basilica, dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, was constructed in the late 13th century. The Franciscans, who had settled in Arezzo earlier, began building the church around 1290. The construction continued into the 14th century, with the bell tower added in the 16th century. Over time, the church underwent various modifications, including Baroque additions in the 17th century, which were later removed during 19th-century restorations.
Architectural Features
The basilica's exterior is relatively simple, reflecting the Franciscans' emphasis on humility. The interior, however, is a single nave with chapels on the sides, showcasing a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles. Beneath the main church lies a lower church, now used as an exhibition space.
Artistic Highlights
The basilica is most famous for the "Legend of the True Cross," a cycle of frescoes by Piero della Francesca, located in the Cappella Maggiore (Major Chapel). These frescoes, completed in the mid-15th century, are considered masterpieces of Early Renaissance art. They depict scenes from the Golden Legend by Jacobus de Voragine, focusing on the history of the cross on which Christ was crucified.
Other notable artworks include a large painted crucifix by the Master of San Francesco and a Maestà (Madonna in Majesty) by Guido da Siena.
Cultural Significance
The Basilica of San Francesco is not just a place of worship but also a cultural landmark. It attracts art lovers and historians from around the world, eager to admire its architectural beauty and artistic treasures.
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Giuseppe Guarino
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21 Marzo 2025
10,0
Giorgio Vasari exhibition Arezzo
Adolfo Casalini
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06 Marzo 2025
10,0
What can I say... seeing these works by Piero della Francesca is unique. Great emotion. We find them on the first nocturne in the history of art. Very large and well-kept works. The viewer is taken into an ancient world where we are told the story of the true cross. The other works in the Church are also very beautiful.
Andrea D'Adamo
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03 Marzo 2025
10,0
An experience worth repeating and a visit to the frescoes by Piero della Francesca is unmissable
Luisa Chizzola
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02 Marzo 2025
10,0
Catholic church in Romanesque style from the 13th century famous for the frescoes by Piero della Francesca known as "Stories of the True Cross", they represent one of the most important fresco cycles of the Renaissance and are part of the masterpieces of art history.
They are a must stop if you visit Arezzo.
Valentina Zambon
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02 Marzo 2025
10,0
In Arezzo, inside the masterpiece by Piro della Francesca "Story of the True Cross"
Marco Rosati
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25 Febbraio 2025
10,0
On a guided tour of Giorgio Vasari's exhibitions.
Mauro Giovacchini
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22 Febbraio 2025
10,0
Exquisite! Well worth the nominal €9 fee!
Christina Jenkins
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14 Febbraio 2025
10,0
Piero della Francesca and one of his masterpieces! To see it, go behind the Altar, you can go around!
Lorenzo Vocaturo
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31 Gennaio 2025
10,0