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Arezzo is located in eastern Tuscany, not far from Florence, Siena and Cortona. Umbria, with Lake Trasimeno and Perugia, is only a short distance away. This central geographical position, on the main north-south railway line and the A1 autostrada , means that it is comparatively easy to get to anywhere in Italy. Florence Airport is the closest (only 90 km away) but Rome, Pisa and Bologna Airports are also within easy reach, both by road and by rail.

Although the origins of the city are lost in time, it was certainly the Etruscans who founded ancient Arezzo on the edge of the two valleys of the Arno. Traces of every period since then can be found in the numerous streets and lanes, in the piazzas and buildings, in the museums and monuments of the old medieval town which sits on a gentle hill. You can also find traces of the ancient Rome and of course are the Renaissance. Michelangelo was born in the Province of Arezzo, just over the hills in the Tiber valley. Other famed artists born in the territory are Piero della Francesca, Masaccio, Paolo Uccello, Luca Signorelli, Vasari and Sansovino, to mention only a few. Two other famous names are forever linked to Arezzo: Petrarch and Guido d'Arezzo were both born here. And of course you will discover others. The lively, modern town is built mainly on the plain which extends into the Valdichiana and is best known today for its gold factories; clothing, shoemaking and electronics are also important and are complemented by a wide range of smaller handcraft industries. The most important date in the business calendar is the International Gold Fair held every March. A more frequent event which combines culture and business is the Antique Fair held on the first Sunday of each month in all the lanes and piazzas of the old town. The International Polyphonic Competition, "Guido d'Arezzo", is held in the last week of August.

“The Saracen Joust” is held on the third Saturday of June and the first Sunday of September: The four quarters of the city dress in medieval costume and conduct a nock battle in one of the most picturesque squares of Europe, Piazza Grande. Arezzo Wave is an international pop music festival held in the first week of July and provides a showcase for emerging singers and groups. The town is large enough to provide everything you need in the way of shops, sports activities and entertainment but is also a perfect size for walking around in. You'll hardly ever need to take a bus in town. There is good local transport to nearby towns and villages. Bikes are available for hire.

For further information, enrolment, brochure, posters, maps or turist information.
ACCADEMIA BRITANNICA TOSCANA
Italian Language Courses
Vicolo Pietro da Cortona, 10
52100 AREZZO, Italy
Tel.0575/21366 - Fax 0575/300426
E-mail: accademia.britannica@virgilio.it