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Cortona

Cortona has a unique geographical position. The city covers four terraces of Monte Sant` Egidio – the mountainside with almost 500 m slant. No wonder that city image is characterized by narrow and twisting alleys. That’s why it’s better to leave a car before entering the city, you are not likely to find a parking place here and more over it’s more pleasant to start discovering the city without a car. You’ll need a pair of reliable and comfortable shoes to cope with steep ascents in the city.

The City wall of Cortona is almost 3000 m long. The central square Piazza della Repubblica is the best place to start the excursion in the city. Here you may visit Palazzo Comunale tower decorated with castellation. Then you may take a walk to the town hall or visit Piazza della Pescaia. You may also see Le Celle – the monastery founded by St. Francis Assisi.

The visiting of Museum of the Etruscan Academy (Museo dell Academia Etrusca) situated in palace Palazza Pretorio is an outstanding opportunity to examine ancient Etruscan culture. The most famous exhibit here is 60 kg bronze torch for 16 candles dated V century BC. The museum exposition introduces not only Etruscan culture but also demonstrates pieces of Egyptiac, Langobardic and Renaissance cultures.

Piazza del Duomo (cathedral square) provides us with an amazing view on many sights of the city. You can get even a better view on the city and the valley from Santuario di Santa Margherita terrace. Santa Margherita church is dedicated to celestial patron of Cortona.

Santa Maria delle Grazie al Calcinaio church is situated 2,5 km away outside the city. It is well-known for its stained-glass windows and admirable Renaissance proportions.

Cortona is remarkable not only for its architecture, but also for rich cultural traditions. A lot of events take place here. You can get acquainted with traditions and history of the town during the week of medieval culture and the Archer tournament held at the end of May – the beginning of June. It’s a good idea to visit Cortona at the end of summer because of the unique Tuscan Sun Festival known all over the world.

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