Arezzo Cathedral

Arezzo Cathedral is a Gothic cathedral in Arezzo, Italy, standing on a hilltop at the northern edge of the old town. The main façade remains unfinished, while a tall central nave structure with pointed arches and cross vaults rests on stone pillars.

Building began in 1277 under Bishop Guglielmo degli Ubertini on the site of an older church and stretched with interruptions until 1511. The campaign included raising the bell tower and vaulting the ceiling, but the west façade never received its planned marble cladding.

The bishop's seat houses sixteenth-century stained glass by Guillaume de Marcillat showing the life of Christ and holy women. Piero della Francesca's fresco of Mary Magdalene draws visitors to a side chapel near the entrance.

The building opens daily for worship and visitors who explore the interior on their own or join guided walks. The bell tower is accessible on request and offers a view over the town.

The fourteenth-century marble cenotaph of Bishop Guido Tarlati shows 16 relief panels retelling battles, political negotiations, and ceremonies from his life. The sculptural narrative works like a medieval picture book of power and piety.

Location: Arezzo

Inception: 1278

Architectural style: Gothic architecture, Romanesque architecture, Gothic art

GPS coordinates: 43.46700,11.88317

Latest update: December 20, 2025 14:41