Cortona is a small and welcoming medieval town in the Val di Chiana, in the province of Arezzo, in the south-east of Tuscany and close to the Umbrian region.
It is built on a hill floor, at more than 500 meters above sea level, with its medieval centre rich in alleys, cobblestones, ancient palaces and churches, from which you can discover beautiful views of the surroundings. The city is surrounded by medieval walls of which there are still Etruscan and Roman portions.
Its region is renowned for its excellent wines that can be tasted in one of the many wine bars of Cortona, also accompanying the local gastronomy not less rich. The Chianina is one of the oldest and most famous breeds of cattle in Italy.
Heritage and Visit
The center of Cortona is the Piazza della Repubblica, which overlooks the town hall with the Palazzo Comunale and other historical palaces. Beyond the superb historic center, the city has several notable sites, first of all the MAEC (Museum of the Etruscan Academy), or the diocesan museum (which houses a panel of the Annunciation of Fra Angelico). The first one is discovered in many Etruscan artifacts discovered nearby, including the sites of the Archaeological Park of Cortona.
The path that runs along the walls of the city offers beautiful views of the surroundings.
At the top of the hill, the Girifalco Fortress watches over the surroundings, near the sanctuary dedicated to Santa Margherita, the patron saint of Cortona. It can be reached on foot by climbing stairs and steep streets, or more easily by road.
A few kilometers away, the Franciscan hermitage Le Celle is a place of tranquility full of spirituality. It was one of the first monasteries founded by St. Francis of Assisi in 1211.
Two major festivals are held every year in the summer in Cortona. The Tuscan Sun Festival is dedicated to art and cinema, with international artists participating every year. Cortona on the Move is since 2011 an important international photography festival, from July to September, dedicated to contemporary photography.
Read also What to do and see in Cortona
Where is Cortone, map
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Links and sources
- Background information: en.wikipedia.org
- Tourist portals: www.cortonaweb.net
Articles about Cortona
- What to do and see in Cortona
Built on a hill between 500 and 600 metres above sea level, Cortona preserves a unique medieval centre rich in alleys, cobbled streets, ancient palaces and churches, with beautiful panoramas ... - Hotels in Cortona
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