From Arkansas to Arezzo

Today was spent solely in the city of Arezzo.  Known mostly for its unique medieval architecture, Arezzo is believed to have been one of the twelve most important Etruscan city-states and an important Roman city. It truly came alive in the form of art during the Middle Ages when many churches were being built.

Some of these include the Pieve di Santa Maria, an example of Tuscan Romanesque architecture, the Gothic Cathedral, the Church of San Domenico (later embellished by the Crucifix painted by the Cimabue) and the church of San Francesco.

In fact, one famous aspect of this city is the story behind Piero della Francesca. Francesca created his absolute masterpiece, The Legend of the True Cross in the church of San Francesco picking up where painter Bicci di Lorenzo left off during his work.  The artwork throughout the entire church was so moving I was almost in tears walking around in this extraordinary place of sanctuary.  Unfortunately, we are not allowed to take pictures inside (not that any of the beauty could be captured in pixels) but I encourage everyone to make an attempt to research it and possibly one day make it to Italy to see it yourself.

The most significant public space is the Piazza Grade. This site easily is recognized easily from scenes in the Academy-Award-winning movie "Life is Beautiful."  It was a really neat feeling to be standing right where the film was shot and see the amazing architecture of this public area.

Despite the snow falling steadily all day, I thoroughly enjoyed walking literally all over Arezzo.