Benvenuti a Arezzo!
Welcome to Arezzo, affectionately known as “la terra del Piero,” a title that celebrates the deep connection between this charming Tuscan town and the renowned early Renaissance artist, Piero della Francesca. Nestled in the picturesque hills of Tuscany, Arezzo is not just a feast for the eyes but a treasure trove of history and art, especially the works of Piero della Francesca.
The Master of Early Renaissance
Piero della Francesca is celebrated as a major figure in the early Renaissance movement. His work is characterized by a deep understanding of perspective, geometry, and human anatomy, which he masterfully combined to create harmonious and realistic compositions. Piero’s contributions went beyond mere aesthetics; his use of light, space, and proportion set new standards in painting, influencing a new generation of artists. In the detail from “The Resurrection” (pictured above), Vasari believed Piero della Francesca included his own likeness in the figure of one of the guards.
A Journey from San Sepolcro to Arezzo
Piero della Francesca was born in the tiny but quaint town of San Sepolcro in 1415, a place steeped in history that nurtured his early life and the blossoming of his artistic genius. However, it was in Arezzo that Piero left an indelible mark, creating a legacy that has become an integral part of the city’s cultural and artistic heritage.
La Magdalena Fresco in Arezzo’s Duomo
In the heart of Arezzo’s majestic Duomo — Cattedrale di San Donato — you can find Piero’s fresco, “La Magdalena.” Painted between 1459 and 1466, this fresco captures the serene and contemplative figure of Mary Magdalene. Its significance lies not only in its beauty but also in its testament to Piero’s skill in creating deeply emotive and spiritual works.
The colors were not chosen randomly but symbolized the three theological virtues: green recalls hope, white faith, and red charity. Mary Magdalene looks down at the viewer, deep and expressive. Here, she is not represented as penitent but triumphant. Her elegant, almost transcendent beauty makes this representation of the Magdalena a true manifesto of the “dignity of women”.
The Story of the True Cross Fresco Cycle
This masterpiece is not just a visual delight but a narrative epic, painted to educate and inspire the faithful. The frescoes were commissioned for the Basilica of San Francesco due to the church’s dedication to the Franciscan order, which revered the Holy Cross. The cycle’s intricate details and profound storytelling make it a cornerstone of Renaissance art, embodying the era’s spirit and Piero’s ingenuity.
Each scene in “The Story of the True Cross” is meticulously crafted, illustrating pivotal moments in the legend with a blend of historical accuracy and imaginative flourish. Piero’s innovative use of perspective and chiaroscuro brings depth and realism to the scenes, drawing viewers into the unfolding drama. Notably, the town of Jerusalem depicted in the fresco cycle closely resembles the medieval town of Arezzo, grounding the divine narrative in a familiar landscape.
The frescoes depict the physical journey of the True Cross and convey spiritual themes of faith, redemption, and divine intervention. This integration of artistic excellence and theological narrative transforms the walls of San Francesco into a visual scripture that speaks to both heart and mind. Piero’s masterful composition, color, and light create a dynamic experience, showcasing his technical prowess and deep understanding of human emotion and divine mystery.
An Invitation to Art Lovers
For lovers of early Renaissance art, visiting Arezzo is a pilgrimage to the past and a chance to walk in the footsteps of Piero della Francesca. Explore the vibrant streets, admire the stunning frescoes, and immerse yourself in the rich history that makes Arezzo truly “la terra di Piero.” Whether it’s the serene beauty of La Magdalena in the Duomo or the epic saga of The Story of the True Cross in San Francesco, Arezzo offers a timeless journey through the wonders of early Renaissance art.
