Exploring Tuscany’s Sansepolcro

Sansepolcro is a hidden gem that nestles close to La Mancha and Umbria on Tuscany’s border. This traditional, medieval town, boasts honey stone buildings, palaces and piazzas, and is extremely well-preserved, reminiscent of bygone ages. Sansepolcro nestles on flat land in the upper Tiber valley, which makes it easier to walk around, unlike many of the hilltop settlements.

Founded, supposedly, by two pilgrims from the Holy Land that built a chapel to house a lump of rock from the Holy Sepulchre of Christ, Sansepolcro later became a Benedictine monastery and began to prosper as a settlement. As people moved to the area, the affluent Medici family eventually built a fortress that still bares their name. It became prominent as a trading post between the Adriatic coast and central Italy.

When you arrive at Sansepolcro, you may want to park just outside the city walls, then aim for the historic centre, through one of the original stone entrances. The city has plenty of style, most of the streets lead to the main square, and the Piazza Torre di Berta, a 13th century tower. The open central piazza is surrounded by imposing buildings and towers, and is often compared to be a miniature version of Siena. Tidy homes are adorned with flowers, and the town is certainly not short of classy shops and plenty of bars and places to eat.

The Romanesque cathedral, the Duomo of San Giovanni Evangelista dedicated to Saint John the Evangelist, was built later on the site of the original sepulchre chapel. Inside you can see art by Perugino and, Piero Della Francesca, who lived in the area. Visit the Museo Civico see what is considered his masterpiece, the Resurrection. There is also a 10th century wooden crucifix called the “Holy Face”.

The city hall, Palazzo delle Laudi, is also worth a visit, and there are several palaces around the town.

Sansepolcro is a place to take your time, wander and investigate. Evenings are a good time to stroll, when you will be accompanied by many of the townspeople sauntering with their family and friends.

When it’s time to jump in the car and go further afield, you will find interesting places like Cortona, Anghiari, Montevarci and Lake Trasimeno, all of which are within easy reach.