Piazza del Duomo represents the most significant sacred space in the city of Arezzo, featuring the Cathedral and the Museo Diocesano di Arte Sacra. The Cathedral houses the Ark of St. Donatus at the main altar, which holds the mortal remains of the Saint, the Patron Saint of Arezzo. In the left nave, visitors can admire the fresco depicting the Magdalene, a masterpiece by Piero della Francesca. The visit to the Cathedral culminates in the Chapel of Our Lady of Comfort, connected to the miracle of February 15, 1796, and today the focal point of strong popular devotion.
Right in front of the Cathedral stands the Episcopal Palace, still the residence of the Bishop of Arezzo, which since 2011 has housed the Museo Diocesano di Arte Sacra in five rooms on the ground floor. It’s an important collection of sculptures, paintings, illuminated manuscripts, vestments, and goldsmith works from the Diocese’s territory. On the first floor of the Palace, visitors can also explore the Episcopal Gallery and the Chamber of the Popes, intended to welcome popes visiting Arezzo.