AREZZO:

Not everyone knows that Arezzo is an ancient city, older than Alexandria in Egypt! To discover Arezzo you need to have a smattering of understanding about its past. Arezzo was one of the main Etruscan city-states. Later in life it became a Roman city of strategic importance, a nerve center of vibrant commerce, a place brimming with monuments such as the Ampitheater, whose remains can still be seen today. Back in those days Arezzo’s foundries were well known, as too were the city’s artistic workshops of “coralline” pots, which were painted red and whose decorative technique extended throughout the Roman world.

Arezzo can be considered one of the world capitals of gold with about 1,100 companies dedicated to this precious craft. The most expert goldsmiths of this town started creating sacred works manifactured in the 14th and 15th centuries, although this tradition have even more ancient origins. Every year you can visit the international jewelry exhibition called Oro Arezzo, featuring the best golden creations made in Italy.

Ancient traditions continue to thrive. One way to experience them is to visit on the second-to-last Saturday in June or on the first Sunday in September when Piazza Grande becomes the stage for the Giostra del Saracino, a chivalric tournament dating back to the Middle Ages.

Alternatively, check out Arezzo on the first weekend of the month when the Antiques Fair comes to town in the same central piazza. A dazzling market of ever-surprising items and objects, arm yourself with patience and curiosity – and don’t forget to practice the fine art of negotiation: bartering is second nature for the city’s market holders, so hold your corner!