Giorgio Vasari’s House Museum in Arezzo

Giorgio Vasari’s House Museum

In the heart of Arezzo, a few steps from the Church of San Domenico, is the Giorgio Vasari’s House Museum: a historical and artistic jewel that recounts the life and work of one of the most important protagonists of the Renaissance. The building, purchased by the artist in 1541, was decorated by him with mannerist frescoes of extraordinary beauty. Today, the house  preserves furniture, works of art and documents that belonged to Vasari, offering visitors an immersive experience of his era.

The museum tour allows visitors to explore evocative rooms such as the Fireplace Room, the Chamber of Apollo and the Muses, and the hanging garden, a green corner that the artist deeply loved. An unmissable place for art and history enthusiasts.

Who was Giorgio Vasari: artist and art historian

Giorgio Vasari was born in Arezzo in 1511 and became a key figure of the Italian Renaissance, leaving an indelible legacy both as an artist and as an art historian. A mannerist painter, architect and author of the famous text ‘Le Vite de’ più eccellenti pittori, scultori e architetti italiani’ (Lives of the most excellent Italian painters, sculptors and architects), he is considered the first true art historian.

His training took place between Arezzo, Florence and Rome, where he studied the works of great masters such as Michelangelo and Raphael. He worked at the Medici court and designed iconic buildings such as the Uffizi in Florence.

The History of Giorgio Vasari’s House Museum

Giorgio Vasari’s house, located in Via XX Settembre, was bought by the artist in 1541 and transformed into a refined residence, enriched with frescoes and decorations created by himself and his collaborators. Vasari only stayed there for short periods due to his numerous commitments in Florence and Rome, but he considered this house a personal refuge.

After his death in 1574, the residence passed on to his heirs and later to several noble families from Arezzo. In 1911, on the occasion of the 400th anniversary of Vasari’s birth, the house was purchased by the Italian State and turned into a museum, becoming a point of reference for scholars and enthusiasts of mannerist art.

The Rooms and Frescoes of the House Museum

Giorgio Vasari’s House Museum preserves the atmosphere of the period thanks to its frescoes and the original layout of the rooms. The main floor, the most richly decorated, houses some of the most evocative rooms, including the Fireplace Room, where Vasari depicted himself with his back turned intent on reading, and the Chamber of Apollo and the Muses, dedicated to the celebration of art.

Also of particular note is the Camera della Fama (Chamber of Fame), with frescoes extolling the role of the artist in Renaissance society. The rooms are enriched by coffered ceilings with panel paintings and allegorical decorations.

The Vasari Picture Gallery and Archive in the Giorgio Vasari House Museum

In addition to the splendid frescoes, the Giorgio Vasari’s House Museum houses a rich picture gallery, set up in the 1950s with works by mannerist artists close to the master from Arezzo. These include Jacopo Zucchi, Carlo Portelli, Francesco Morandini and Perin del Vaga, who collaborated with Vasari on the decoration of the Studiolo di Francesco I de’ Medici in Palazzo Vecchio.

Another treasure kept in the House Museum is the precious Vasariano Archive, a collection of documents, letters and annotations by the artist. This archive represents an invaluable source for knowledge of Renaissance art and includes 17 autograph letters by Michelangelo, revealing the bond between the two masters. A unique historical and artistic heritage.

Useful information for visiting

The Giorgio Vasari’s House Museum is located at Via XX Settembre 55 in Arezzo, just a few steps from the historical centre and the Pietri Car Park, making it easily accessible to visitors. The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 8.30 am to 7.30 pm, while Sundays and holidays observe reduced hours, from 8.30 am to 1.30 pm.

The ticket office always closes 30 minutes before closing time. The ticket price is €4, with reductions available at €2 and free admission for certain categories. For those wishing to explore further, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions and guided tours. A perfect opportunity to discover the world of Vasari and his extraordinary contribution to art.

Stay near Arezzo: discover the B&B Poggio del Drago

After visiting Giorgio Vasari’s House Museum and the historical centre of Arezzo, treat yourself to a relaxing stay at the B&B Country House Poggio del Drago, immersed in the peaceful Tuscan countryside.

Thanks to its strategic location, our B&B near Arezzo is the ideal choice for exploring the city and its artistic treasures, with the comfort of returning to a cosy and relaxing environment. You can relax in our panoramic swimming pool, enjoy a breakfast prepared with local products, and enjoy the beauty of the Val di Chiana. If you are looking for a stay that combines culture, nature and comfort, Poggio del Drago is the perfect base for discovering Arezzo and its surroundings in total tranquillity.