St. Mary of the Parish

Considered one of the most beautiful religious monuments in Arezzo

Santa Maria della Pieve is the oldest church in the city, dating back to around 1008.

The current Romanesque building dates back to the 12th century and has been expanded and renovated several times since then. The sandstone church was given a new façade in the 13th century. The 60-meter-tall bell tower, also known as the “tower of a hundred holes” because of its numerous mullioned windows, was completed around 1330. The Church of Santa Maria della Pieve is open to visitors free of charge.

An extraordinary place

The church in the center of Arezzo is known for its magnificent façade, which features three portals adorned with various sculptures. The pediment of the main portal depicts the Assumption of the Virgin, while one of the side portals illustrates the Baptism of Christ. The church’s imposing apse is located in Piazza Grande, Arezzo’s market square, a popular gathering place thanks to its central location and the presence of numerous historic buildings.

Biblical Paintings

The interior consists of a spacious central nave and two narrow side aisles. Visitors are immediately struck by the striking works of art. Of particular interest is the 14th-century polyptych by Pietro Lorenzetti, painted in tempera and gold on wood, depicting the Virgin Mary with the Child and Saints John the Evangelist, Donatus, John the Baptist, and Matthew.