The best MTB trails around Monterchi

In Castiglion Fiorentino, just outside the city walls, stands the Church of the Madonna della Consolazione. Its history stems from a sacred image of the Madonna and Child, attributed to Luca Signorelli, once kept in a tabernacle along the road. Tradition holds that Eleonora di Toledo, wife of Cosimo I de' Medici, regained her sight by praying before that image. In gratitude, she financed the construction of the church, which began in 1565 and was completed only decades later. Inside, in a side chapel, the original fresco of the Madonna is still preserved.

Sunset at Piazza Grande

Scenic route above Arezzo, famous for Pantani participation in the Giro diItalia.

Arezzo: Art and History in Tuscany Arezzo's narrow streets transported me back in time. Ancient walls told tales of the Etruscans and Romans. In the Piazza Grande, millennia merged into a unique experience. Arezzo is a cultural gem in the heart of Tuscany. With 100,000 inhabitants, the city retains its medieval charm. Etruscan roots and Roman influences shape the cityscape. The city has witnessed many wars and upheavals. Founded by the Etruscans and later conquered by the Romans, Arezzo became an important trading center. Arezzo's eventful history makes it a fascinating travel destination. Visitors experience a rich past and cultural diversity here. Text / Source: Toskanaitalien.de, your website about Tuscany https://www.toskanaitalien.de/arezzo/#:~:text=Arezzo%20is%20a%20cultural%20jewel%20in%20the%20heart%20of%20Tuscany.,cityscape.%20The%20city%20experienced%20many%20wars%20and%20changes.

The Piazza Grande, Arezzo In 1200, the Piazza Grande in Arezzo was still unpaved and stretched from the Red Tower of the Palazzo Comunale on Via Pellicceria to the Borgunto and eastward to the Palazzo del Popolo. At that time, the square was twice its current size and surrounded by the towers of the old noble families. However, the destructive work of Cosimo de' Medici, who transformed the city into a fortress, led to the demolition of many historic buildings and even the burial of the ancient Roman forum. This necessitated a restoration project, including the construction of the loggias, which was entrusted to Giorgio Vasari. Vasari began work in 1572 but died the following year. The work was completed according to the original design under the supervision of Alfonso Parigi. The loggias feature architectural ornamentation in sandstone typical of Arezzo, while the column bases are made of Rapolano travertine, the same material used for the staircase of the Palazzo della Fraternita. The portico is covered with cross vaults, and the windows are surmounted by tympana with classical frames. Text / Source: L'Ortica - Director Gino Perticai || Arezzo City Council Press Office https://www.lortica.it/2024/08/23/piazza-grande-di-arezzo-storia-architettura-e-altre-curiosita-dal-medioevo-al-rinascimento/

Aqueducts continued to be built even after the Romans. This one dates from the 16th/17th century. It was built by the Fraternita dei Laici, a congregation dedicated to charity and public service.

Majestic aqueduct that connects the city center with the slopes of the Alpe di Poti

Every ride offers a different view ;)