Welcome Home to Arezzo: Arezzo, a historic town in the heart of Italy, is the birthplace of Renaissance artist Giorgio Vasari and the backdrop of Roberto Benigni’s Oscar-winning film “Life is Beautiful.” Known for its vibrant monthly antique fairs and traditional medieval jousting festivals in June and September, Arezzo is culturally rich and architecturally stunning.
The town’s focal point, Piazza Grande, features the majestic Vasari Loggia and the rounded apse of the church La Pieve, flanked by medieval towers. This historic square is a hub of activity, lined with numerous bars and restaurants. Nearby, the hilltop Duomo of San Donato offers sweeping views of the city, while the church of San Francesco is home to Piero della Francesca’s celebrated fresco, “The Story of the True Cross.””The church of San Domenico also houses a notable cross painted by Cimabue, adding to Arezzo’s rich artistic heritage.
Enza’s Home in Arezzo
Enza, a high school teacher living in Arezzo with her partner, a well-known local doctor, is committed to ensuring your stay is both enriching and comfortable. She will prepare breakfast and one main meal daily. Afternoons and evenings offer great opportunities for cultural immersion as you can engage with Enza and her family. Enza is keen to introduce you to Arezzo’s social scene, including dining out, attending theater performances, and other city events. You will also interact with her daughter and sister, adding depth to your experience of Italian family life.
Option One: Terrace Garden Apartment: Stay in the secluded Terrace Garden Apartment on the top floor above Enza’s family home. With its entrance accessible by elevator and an interior staircase connecting to the family quarters, this private retreat features a spacious, wood-tiled patio with divans, lush plants, and a stunning city view. Ideal for outdoor dining, relaxing, or entertaining during the spring, summer, and fall. The apartment offers a private bedroom with an eating area, a small galley kitchen (stovetop, refrigerator, sink), and a bathroom with a shower. It is equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a TV, and a washing machine.
Option Two: Modern Family Apartment: Alternatively, you can stay in the family’s modern apartment, sharing their well-appointed guest room. This option allows full access to the family’s living spaces, including the living room, bathroom, and kitchen. This setup is ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves fully in family life and experience the day-to-day culture of an Italian home.
What to Expect from Enza & Cultura Italiana Arezzo’s Homestay Course
What to Expect from Enza & Cultura Italiana Arezzo’s Language Course: Expect a comprehensive Italian learning experience with Enza and Cultura Italiana Arezzo. You will stay in Enza’s well-located apartment on the fifth floor of a five-story palazzo in Piazza Guido Monico, complete with an elevator and close to the train station and Cultura Italiana school. Enza will prepare breakfast and one additional meal each day, and you’ll have the chance to engage with her family in the evenings, enjoying activities such as dining out, attending theater performances, or participating in city events.
You’ll join a small, focused language course at Cultura Italiana Arezzo, limited to just six students, for a personalized and interactive learning environment. Classes, including a morning break, are held daily from 9:15 AM to 12:50 PM and are only a 5-minute walk from Enza’s apartment. This arrangement allows for a perfect mix of structured classroom learning and ample free time to explore the charming city of Arezzo.
In the afternoons, you can enrich your experience through various activities and excursions organized by the school, such as cooking classes, and trips to local towns like Orvieto, Siena, Anghiari, Sansepolcro, and Cortona. Local group activities may include visiting significant cultural sites like the church of San Francesco to view Piero della Francesca’s “The Story of the True Cross” and exploring the Medici fortress. There’s also the opportunity for a memorable outing to Pomaio winery for wine tasting. This comprehensive program blends language study with deep cultural immersion, making your stay both educational and enjoyable.
Booking Your Homestay with Enza & Cultura Italiana Arezzo: Enza & Cultura Italiana offers a special rate for her Homestay experience in Arezzo to readers of the Matta Blog.