Church of San Domenico, Arezzo

Church in Arezzo

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko

In the peaceful heart of Arezzo's historic centre stands the Church of San Domenico, a gem of Tuscan medieval architecture that continues to captivate visitors with its serene beauty and deep sense of history. Built between the late 13th and early 14th centuries, this church is one of the must-see places in Arezzo, blending spiritual significance with remarkable artistic heritage. Though modest from the outside, its simple Romanesque lines conceal centuries of faith and artistry that tell the story of Arezzo's Dominican community and its noble patrons.

San Domenico also holds an extraordinary historical claim: it was the site of the first-ever papal conclave, convened in 1276 to elect Pope Innocent V. That single event forever marked this unassuming church as a cornerstone of ecclesiastical history. The building’s plain façade and quiet setting seem to echo that solemn moment, while its interior glows with colour and craftsmanship that span the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

History and Significance of the Church of San Domenico
Things to See and Do in the Church of San Domenico
Practical Information
How to Get There
Is the Church of San Domenico Worth Visiting?
Other Sites Nearby

History and Significance of the Church of San Domenico

The Church of San Domenico owes its existence to the generosity of two prominent Arezzo families, the Ubertini and the Tarlati, who sponsored its construction in the late 1200s. Its Romanesque design, with its sturdy stone walls and uncluttered geometry, reflects the ideals of the Dominican Order - simplicity, devotion, and community. Over the centuries, it has undergone several renovations, but its essential character has remained intact. In 1960, Pope John XXIII recognized its enduring importance by granting it the honorary title of Minor Basilica.

Architecturally, the church features a single, elongated nave that invites visitors toward the altar, where natural light filters through a trifora window above. The narrowing intervals between the side windows cleverly create an optical illusion of greater depth, a subtle yet powerful example of medieval design ingenuity. This understated but graceful layout draws attention to the artworks within, making San Domenico both a spiritual sanctuary and an art lover’s haven.

Things to See and Do in the Church of San Domenico

Stepping inside, visitors find a collection of art that reveals the long dialogue between Gothic devotion and Renaissance innovation. The walls are adorned with fading frescoes, while the presence of glazed terracotta works from the Della Robbia school adds a burst of colour and craftsmanship unique to the region. Yet the undisputed focal point of the church is Cimabue’s Crucifix, suspended above the high altar.

Created around the 1360s, this monumental wooden crucifix measures approximately 340 by 270 centimetres and is painted in gold and tempera. It represents one of Cimabue's earliest masterpieces, bridging the rigid formality of Byzantine tradition with the human warmth that would define the Italian Renaissance. The expression of Christ's suffering feels deeply personal, marking a turning point in Western art. This spot is one of the best places to see in Arezzo for anyone tracing the evolution of Tuscan art.

A visit here is not only about admiring Cimabue's genius but also about feeling the spiritual calm that pervades the space. The church's unadorned interior and muted tones create an atmosphere perfect for reflection, a quiet counterpart to the busy squares of Arezzo. It's a highlight of any walking tour of Arezzo, offering both historical depth and emotional resonance.

Practical Information

Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant temperatures and fewer visitors.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free, though donations are appreciated.
Opening hours: Generally open 10:00-13:00 and 15:00-18:00, but times may vary by season.
Official website: www.discoverarezzo.com
How long to spend: About 30-45 minutes.
Accessibility: Entrance and nave are accessible; uneven stone flooring may require care.
Facilities: Basic facilities available nearby; limited services on-site.
Photography tip: Capture the crucifix in natural light from mid-morning for the best illumination.
Guided tours: Available through the Arezzo tourist office or local walking tour operators.
Nearby food options: Try trattorias near Piazza Grande or Via Cavour for local Tuscan dishes.

How to Get There

The Church of San Domenico is located a short walk northeast of Piazza Grande, along Via San Domenico. From Arezzo railway station, it takes about 15 minutes on foot through the winding streets of the old town. Parking is available outside the historic centre, with Parcheggio Pietri offering convenient access for visitors arriving by car.

Is the Church of San Domenico Worth Visiting?

Without question. The Church of San Domenico is not just one of the top sights in Arezzo - it is a serene encounter with the roots of Italian art and spirituality. Its connection to Cimabue, its role in papal history, and its tranquil simplicity make it one of the things to do in Arezzo that rewards both art enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. Whether you're exploring the city's grand basilicas or seeking quiet reflection, San Domenico offers a glimpse into the soul of medieval Tuscany.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (4,545)

Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico in Piazza S. Domenico is a severe Gothic Dominican church whose interior feels spacious and austere, encouraging quiet reverence and prayer; visitors note free entry, plentiful nearby parking within a short shaded walk, and that photography inside is not allowed. The basilica houses relics of Saint Catherine of Siena — including a preserved head and finger — and contains numerous paintings and a frescoed chapel. From outside it's a prominent city landmark often used by tour groups.

Will

a month ago

"This is the place where Saint Catherine of Siena — one of the patron saints of Italy — used to pray during her lifetime. It was also from here thatshe set out for France, determined to persuade the Pope to return to Rome and restore the papacy to the Vatican. Sadly, she passed away in Rome and never had the chance to come back to her beloved hometown. However, part of her sacred relics is preserved here. I’ve also visited her other relics in the Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Rome and in another shrine in Venice — the last two photos show those places. Saint Catherine was a woman of great compassion and remarkable courage...."

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Flo Yeow

3 months ago

"We stopped by on our trip to Siena and discovered a beautiful Baroque-style cathedral. While not as ornate as the main Duomo, it holds immensehistorical significance, particularly for Saint Cateriniana. Make sure you look for the mummified head and finger, as well as the numerous other paintings housed within this cathedral...."

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Piotr Wodok

3 months ago

"Nice place to visit and pray. Free entry. There is a lot of free space inside which allows you better experience how huge it is inside. There are alot of parking spots near the for trace which is 5 minute walk (in shadowed alley)...."

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Other Sites Nearby

Basilica of San Francesco - Home to Piero della Francesca's iconic fresco cycle.
Arezzo Cathedral - A Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained glass and frescoes.
Casa Vasari - The artist's personal residence and a showcase of Renaissance design.
Piazza Grande - The city's most beautiful square, framed by medieval arcades.
Palazzo dei Priori - Arezzo's Town Hall, filled with frescoes and civic art treasures.

The Church of San Domenico appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arezzo!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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