Cortona: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
On a hill in Tuscany lies Cortona. The city has preserved its medieval character with narrow, winding alleys, stone houses, and impressive architecture from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. You can walk along the mighty city wall and enjoy the magnificent view over the surroundings.
Table of contents
Cortona - Must-see attractions
Republic Square
One of the most striking buildings on the Piazza della Repubblica in Cortona is the Palazzo Comunale from the 12th century. It testifies to the splendor of the Renaissance era and is known for its bell tower. Next to it are other civic and townhouses. This includes the imposing Palazzo Capitano del Popolo opposite the Palazzo Comunale. It is named after its former resident and still shows a former tower. The square thus delights with medieval and Italian flair with cafes and bars.
Basilica of Santa Maria Nuova
The Renaissance church Santa Maria Nuova is one of the architectural treasures of Cortona. The house of worship was built in 1554 as an imposing central structure and was consecrated in 1610. Four large columns inside support the dome. Wing-like arms lead from them to smaller domes. An altar from the 16th century to the right of the entrance depicts the birth of the Virgin Mary. Numerous frescoes show biblical scenes. The rosette windows from the 16th century, which depict the Adoration of the Magi, are famous.
Via Nazionale
The Via Nazionale was formerly known as Rugapiana. "Piana" because the street runs flat. Ruga refers to a street with numerous shops and establishments. The Via Nazionale begins where the Porta San Domenico once stood. At the other end, it reaches the Piazza della Repubblica, the most important square in the heart of Cortona. Here are several attractions, including the Renaissance-era Palazzo Passerini and the town hall built in the 12th century.
Fortress Fortezza del Girifalco
Under the rule of the Medici, the Fortezza Medicea complex was expanded and consists of a total of four bastions and a main tower. The fortress can be visited, and there are changing exhibitions. The panoramic view of the Chiana Valley is particularly worthwhile. In addition to the Fortezza Medicea, numerous other attractions in Cortona await a visit, such as the Cathedral, the Basilica of Santa Maria Nuova, the Monastery Le Celle, or the old city wall dating from the 5th century.
Hermitage Le Celle
Saint Francis of Assisi founded the abbey in 1211 when he came to Cortona on a preaching journey. Years later, he is said to have written his famous testament here. Later, an oratory and a refectory were added to the complex. The Capuchins expanded the complex from 1537 and built a monastery church. Today's spiritual center "Casa di preghiera" (House of Prayer) invites its visitors to meditate and participate in the life of the Franciscan monks.
MAEC - Museum of the Etruscan Academy
In the impressive Palazzo Casali from the 13th century, you immerse yourself in the ancient history of Italy at the MAEC - Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca. The modern museum in Cortona houses a collection of rare archaeological artifacts from the Etruscan and Roman periods. On display are bronze statuettes, ceramics, and burial offerings. The exhibition highlight is an Etruscan bronze candelabrum from the 5th century BC with a Gorgon's head surrounded by dolphins and mythological hybrid creatures. Also noteworthy is the Tabula Cortonensis, one of the most significant written documents of antiquity.
Cortona - Secret spots
Sodo Archaeological Park
Etruscan tombs of historical significance traverse the picturesque landscape in and around the Italian city of Cortona. The Parco Archeologico del Sodo, located at the foot of a hill, conceals the burial mounds known as Meloni and ancient Roman roads. The contents of the tombs can be viewed in the Museum dell’Accademia Etrusca.
Signorelli Square
Piazza Signorelli in Cortona is a characteristic and historically significant place in the picturesque Tuscan town. This square is surrounded by impressive architectural buildings and is a center of local culture and daily life. It is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike, where one can experience the vibrant city life.
The Diocesan Museum in Cortona
As a treasure trove of great masterpieces by Italian painters, the Diocesan Museum in the province of Arezzo is one of the most important art museums in Cortona and the surrounding area. Among the most famous paintings is the Lamentation of Christ by Luca Signorelli. A Roman marble sarcophagus from the 2nd century is considered the oldest object in the museum.
The Pilgrimage Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie al Calcinaio
Built on a hill between Camucia and Cortona in the 16th century, the pilgrimage church Santa Maria delle Grazie al Calcinaio is one of the most significant Renaissance monuments in the Italian region of Arezzo. The oculus is adorned with a colorful stained glass window, while the paintings in the chapel are inspired by symbols of Mary.
Cortona - In 3 days
Day 1
Cortona is nestled in a lovely landscape on the slopes of Monte Sant'Egidio in Tuscany. The charming hill town was already inhabited by the Etruscans and experienced its heyday under the aegis of the Republic of Florence in the 15th century. Today, Cortona is especially known for its architecture and medieval atmosphere. On your first day, you should definitely visit the Church of San Francesco in the center. Behind the simple facade of the church is the fresco cycle Legend of the True Cross by Piero della Francesca. In just a few minutes on foot, you can reach the Piazza della Repubblica, the main square of Cortona. Around the Piazza are other churches like San Filippo Neri and the Basilica of Santa Margherita. From the 16th-century fortress Fortezza del Girifalco, the highest point in Cortona, you have a wonderful view over the Tuscan landscape.
Day 2
On your second day, drive about 40 minutes from Cortona to the next largest city, Arezzo. Alternatively, you can cover the approximately 30 km by bicycle. The heart of the picturesque city is the Piazza Grande with its many cafés and restaurants. Here you will also find the Church of Santa Maria della Pieve and the Palazzo delle Logge. On a tour of the old town, you will encounter venerable patrician houses and merchant palaces at every turn. Enjoy a delicious lunch with Tuscan specialties before going on a shopping spree. Worth seeing is the birthplace of the poet Francesco Petrarca. Right next to it is the San Donato hill with the Medici Fortress and the Cathedral of Saints Donato and Pietro. From here, you have a beautiful view over Arezzo and the surrounding vineyards. End the evening with a glass of Tuscan wine.
Day 3
On the third day, you can take a trip to the San Giovanni Thermal Baths in Rapolano Terme. Here, you will find a large outdoor pool and a comprehensive wellness offering. Those who prefer hiking can head to Lake Trasimeno. This destination is perfect for swimming enthusiasts and water sports lovers. If the weather doesn't cooperate, the Outlet Village Valdichiana, about 36 km south of Arezzo, invites you to shop at bargain prices. Near Arezzo, you will find several wineries and farms in scenic locations like Loro Ciuffenna and Castiglion Fiorentino. Here, you can take a walk or participate in a wine tasting. If you have more time, a side trip to Siena is also worthwhile. The city is 70 km from Arezzo and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany. Notable sights include the famous cathedral made of black and white marble and the town hall with its 102-meter-high tower.