Anghiari gently sits in the middle of the province of Arezzo, deep in the heart of Tuscany. Located on a Roman settlement and tucked between two rivers, the Arno and the Tiber, this beautiful medieval town is not to be missed.
Although probably more famous for it's lost painting "The Battle of Anghiari" by Leonardo da Vinci, which gives it a slight injustice, mainly for the fact there were many artists in and around the area at the time of the renaissance, including Michelangelo born in Caprese, which is only 15km north and Piero della Francesca who's birthplace was Sansepolcro, a mere stone throws west and Giorgio Vasari to name but a few.
Known locally as a "citta slow" which translated literally means slow town, this gives you time to enjoy the culture, food, and local products without rushing. They live a slower way of life here, so if you visit, just embrace it.
The town sits high on a hill overlooking the Tiber valley, so walking can be difficult, but if you take the car and explore slowly, by visiting the beautiful churches and castles en route, there's always somewhere to rest, and when you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with the most magnificent views.
The town itself is a hive of antique dealers and if you're lucky enough to be there midweek, there's the local market to visit.
If not, there are lots of little antique stores and restoration workshops to visit, Anghiari is world renown for its antique restoration and has a school The Institute of Art which is host to apprentices and students from around the world.
Stop at one of the quaint little cafes in the main piazza for a real Italian coffee, and don't forget to buy a cake or two from one of the traditional bakeries.
And if you're like me seek out one of the beautiful historic churches, there's an impressive selection to choose from, in fact eight in total.
A trip to the museum is well worth a visit too.
It's worth remembering that Italy has one of the most expensive car hire schemes in Europe, so if you plan your trip wisely you'll find you won't need to drive far to find the best Italy has to offer.
Anghiari holds a Craft Fair 22nd April- 1st May which is both a market and an exhibition of artisan skills.
29th June is a huge celebration of the townsfolk to mark the anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci's fresco "The Battle of Anghiari".
You'll find a medieval market, fire eaters, dancers; locals' selling their produce, even the music is medieval.One of the most relaxing ways I've found is not to stay in an hotel, but try out one of the Tuscan farmhouses for holiday let, that way you can plan your day at your own leisure, and wait till you see the views from their farmhouses!
Anghiari, Italy