Anghiari is a small village immersed in the splendid Tuscan countryside. It was the Battle of Anghiari on 29 June 1440 that established the borders of Tuscany with the victory of the Florentines over the Milanese; later Leonardo da Vinci made it famous with a work painted in Palazzo Vecchio and Florence, unfortunately now lost.
Anghiari, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and Orange Flag of the Italian Touring Club, develops along the steep and characteristic "wrinkle" that crosses it, making it unique.
Arriving in the town from the plain, the first thing that appears before the visitor's eyes is the Borghetto, that is to say the oldest medieval settlement then surrounded by mighty sixteenth-century walls. An element capable of capturing the attention of every visitor is the imposing medieval tower of Campano, which with its majestic bulk orients travelers almost like a lighthouse. Also in the historic center, the ancient rock church of the Badia, founded by the Camaldolese monks around the year 1000, is worth a stop.
In the historic center is Palazzo Taglieschi, seat of the State Museum where valuable works are kept (among which a Madonna in polychrome wood by Jacopo della Quercia, some Della Robbia terracottas and a 16th century positive table organ still in working order stand out). Among others, the Museum of the Battle and of Anghiari, which housed in Palazzo Marzocco offers the opportunity to know and deepen the history of the clash and the artistic story that linked Leonardo to this place. Then the Museum of Mercy, which traces the history of the Confraternity of Mercy of Anghiari, thanks to very particular documents and objects.
Throughout the year, the town is full of vitality, thanks to the many initiatives including fairs, exhibitions, demonstrations and unique events that combine arts, historical and folkloric traditions and superb local cuisine. In fact, a good opportunity to visit Anghiari can be represented by the traditional Tuscan Valtiberina Handicraft Market, which in spring lights up the alleys and shops of the village, in those days literally teeming with enthusiasts and onlookers.
In addition to craftsmanship, Anghiari is closely linked to the tradition of woodworking which has its roots in very distant times and tries to keep history alive through its artisan shops and the Anghiari School of Art.
In the immediate vicinity of the town, nature lovers will have the opportunity to discover the unique geological conformation of the Monti Rognosi Nature Reserve; while those who prefer medieval scenarios will not disdain a visit to the ancient Castle of Sorci.
FROM: visittuscany.com