Cortona is a city made famous by Frances Mayes "Under the Tuscan Sun". Since its publication, it has been associated with a carefree life in the Italian countryside, and for many it has become a synonym for this beautiful region.
The history of the city goes deep to ancient times, when the area was inhabited by the Etruscans. It was one of the most important centers of their country, and monuments found during excavations, including a stone altar supported by sphinxes, can be viewed at the MAEC Museum.
During the Middle Ages, Cortona was a free city and it lived its golden age in the 12th and 13th centuries. The town's urban layout and a large part of its buildings come from this period. The medieval base is overlapped by later Renaissance influences, especially those from Florence. The city was under her rule from the beginning of the 15th century.
The greatest attractions and most important monuments of Cortona include the Medici Fortress from the mid-16th century, the Cathedral of Santa Maria with Gothic and Renaissance influences, and the Palazzo Casali, whose facade is decorated with the coats of arms of the mayors ruling the city on behalf of Florence.
Cortona is a city of great charm, whose old town, although devoid of monuments like Florence or Siena, is very harmonious. Narrow cobblestone streets, townhouses and city palaces, many small pubs and handicraft shops, and the beautiful views of the Val di Chiana valley from here perfectly match the description in the book "Under the Tuscan Sun".
