· IT

Sansepolcro

Sansepolcro, Tuscany, Italy

Sansepolcro, a charming town nestled in the picturesque region of Tuscany, Italy, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience. Located in the province of Arezzo, Sansepol…

#Historic town#Artistic heritage#Tuscan countryside#Medieval architecture#Birthplace of Piero della Francesca

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Sansepolcro.

Top Hotels in Sansepolcro

Top Flights to Sansepolcro

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Sansepolcro.

Tours

Historical Walking Tour of Sansepolcro

Discover the rich history of Sansepolcro with a guided walking tour through the old town, visiting iconic landmarks and learning about its medieval past.

Shopping

Sansepolcro Outdoor Market

Experience the local culture by visiting the bustling outdoor market in Sansepolcro, offering local produce and handmade goods.

Outdoor

Hiking in the Alpe della Luna

Explore the beautiful natural landscapes of Alpe della Luna with organized hiking trips suitable for various skill levels.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Sansepolcro.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Not Available.

Languages

Italian, Italian

Average weather

Sansepolcro

Jan

7°1°

Feb

9°2°

Mar

13°4°

Apr

16°7°

May

21°11°

Jun

26°15°

Jul

30°18°

Aug

30°18°

Sep

25°15°

Oct

18°10°

Nov

12°5°

Dec

8°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Sansepolcro.

What people love

Sansepolcro, located in Tuscany, Italy, is a charming town with several pros for travelers:

Art and Culture: Sansepolcro is known for being the birthplace of the famous Renaissance painter Piero della Francesca. Visitors can explore the Museo Civico where many of his works are housed, including the renowned Resurrection fresco.
Historic Architecture: The town is filled with well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into Italy's rich history and heritage. The Palazzo Pretorio and the Cathedral of Sansepolcro are among the must-visit landmarks.
Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the picturesque Tuscan countryside, Sansepolcro offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Gastronomy: Tuscany is famous for its delicious cuisine, and Sansepolcro is no exception. Visitors can enjoy authentic Tuscan dishes such as pappa al pomodoro, ribollita, and bistecca alla fiorentina at local restaurants and trattorias.
Festivals and Events: Throughout the year, Sansepolcro hosts various cultural events and festivals that showcase the town's traditions and heritage. The Palio della Balestra, a historical crossbow competition, is a popular event that attracts both locals and tourists.

Overall, traveling to Sansepolcro offers a mix of art, culture, history, natural beauty, and gastronomy, making it a delightful destination for those seeking an authentic Italian experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Sansepolcro in Tuscany, Italy, include:

Limited public transportation options: Sansepolcro is a small town and may have limited public transportation options, which could make it challenging to move around the area without a car.
Language barrier: While many locals may speak English, there could still be a language barrier, especially in more rural areas like Sansepolcro. It may be helpful to have some knowledge of basic Italian phases.
Limited nightlife: Sansepolcro is a small, historic town known for its art and culture, so it may not offer a vibrant nightlife scene compared to larger cities in Italy.
Seasonal crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Sansepolcro can become quite crowded with visitors, which may impact the overall experience and make it difficult to fully enjoy the attractions.
Limited dining options: While Sansepolcro may have some excellent local eateries, the town's dining options could be limited compared to larger cities, which may not cater to all tastes or dietary restrictions.

Please note that these cons may vary depending on personal preferences and travel expectations.

Sansepolcro, located in the province of Arezzo in Tuscany, Italy, is a town with a rich historical heritage. Its origins date back to the early medieval period, and it has been shaped by various cultural and political influences over the centuries.

Early History

Sansepolcro is believed to have been founded in the 10th century. According to legend, two pilgrims, Arcano and Egidio, returning from the Holy Land, brought relics and founded a monastery. The settlement grew around this monastery, which was dedicated to the Holy Sepulchre (San Sepolcro), giving the town its name.

Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, Sansepolcro developed as a free commune and became a prosperous center for commerce and trade. It was strategically located on the Via Francigena, a major pilgrimage and trade route connecting Rome to the rest of Europe.

In the 14th century, Sansepolcro came under the influence and control of powerful regional entities, including the Republic of Florence. The town was often caught in the conflicts between Florence and other regional powers.

Renaissance

Sansepolcro is particularly known for its contribution to the Renaissance, primarily through Piero della Francesca, one of the most important painters of the period. Born in Sansepolcro around 1415, Piero della Francesca is renowned for his works that include "The Resurrection," a fresco considered one of the masterpieces of Renaissance art, housed in the Museo Civico di Sansepolcro.

Modern Era

In the following centuries, Sansepolcro experienced various phases of decline and revival, influenced by broader Italian and European political changes. During World War II, the town suffered damage, but it was spared from further destruction thanks to the efforts of British officer Tony Clarke, who defied orders to destroy the town, motivated by his admiration for Piero della Francesca's works.

Notable Figures

Piero della Francesca: A Renaissance painter and mathematician, his works are celebrated for their use of perspective and geometry.
Luca Pacioli: A mathematician and Franciscan friar, born in Sansepolcro, who is often regarded as the father of accounting and bookkeeping. He published "Summa de arithmetica, geometria, proportioni et proportionalità" in 1494.

Important Landmarks

Museo Civico di Sansepolcro: Houses several works by Piero della Francesca, including "The Resurrection."
Cathedral of Sansepolcro (Duomo di San Giovanni Evangelista): Originally built in the 11th century, it has been modified over time and contains various artworks.
Palazzo delle Laudi: A historical building that now serves as the town hall. It exemplifies Renaissance architecture.
Church of San Francesco: Contains frescoes and paintings from the Renaissance period.

Sansepolcro remains a town rich in cultural and historical importance, attracting visitors interested in art, history, and the scenic beauty of Tuscany.