Stay with Us and Enjoy Stunning Fireworks from the Best Terrace in Arezzo

Festa di San Donato in Arezzo: A Celebration of History, Culture, and Faith

The Festa di San Donato in Arezzo honors the city’s patron saint, a bishop martyred in the 4th century during the persecutions of Julian the Apostate. Legend has it that after his beheading, Saint Donato’s body was secretly retrieved and buried by the faithful. Over time, his legacy has become central to the city, turning his feast into a significant event of devotion and celebration.

The Celebration

Every year, on 7 and 8 August, the city comes alive with a series of religious and cultural events, the perfect reason to visit Arezzo. The events begin on 7 August in the evening with the spectacular fireworks that shot from the Medici fortress illuminate the entire city of Arezzo. On 8 August, the day begins with a solemn mass in Arezzo Cathedral, followed by a procession carrying a statue of the saint, accompanied by singing and prayers. The celebration continues with musical performances by the Musici di Arezzo and ends with breathtaking fireworks that you can best admire from our panoramic terrace if you book your stay with us.

Processions and Religious Ceremonies

The procession with the statue of Saint Donato is the highlight of the feast, followed by religious ceremonies in the cathedral. Solemn masses and special prayers allow the faithful to gather, seek the saint’s intercession, and find comfort in their faith. This is a unique opportunity to visit the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Donato, as well as the magnificent Duomo of Arezzo.

The Importance of Saint Donato

Saint Donato is a figure of great cultural and religious importance to Arezzo. The feast strengthens community bonds and keeps the city’s historical roots alive. From a religious perspective, Saint Donato is revered as an example of faith and courage.

Participating in the Feast

The Festa di San Donato is open to everyone. Visitors can participate in religious ceremonies, processions, cultural events, and enjoy typical Aretine dishes. It’s a unique chance to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Arezzo and share joyful moments with its inhabitants.

In conclusion, the Festa di San Donato in Arezzo is rich in history, culture, and spirituality, celebrating the city’s roots and offering an unforgettable experience to all participants. Experience Arezzo in full festive spirit by booking at our hotel, just a few steps from the historic center, allowing you to explore the city without the need for a car! Don’t miss this opportunity; stay with us and you won’t regret it.

Discover Our Iconic Terrace: The Best View of Arezzo’s Fireworks

Our terrace is a true icon of the city, offering an unparalleled vantage point to witness Arezzo’s stunning fireworks display. Exclusively available to our guests, this panoramic terrace provides a unique and memorable experience that you won’t find anywhere else. With limited availability, we encourage you to book your stay quickly to ensure you don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity. Enjoy the beauty of Arezzo and the spectacular fireworks from the best spot in town—our iconic terrace.

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San Donato events schedule

The ceremony of the Offering of the Candle to San Donato, scheduled for Saturday, August 6th at 9:15 PM, will kick off the festivities, followed by spectacular fireworks organized by the Arezzo Intour Foundation, lighting up the city’s sky from 11:00 PM.

The exhibition “The Colors of the Joust,” managed by the Arezzo Intour Foundation, also celebrates San Donato with special nighttime opening on Saturday, August 6th from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM and free entry throughout the weekend (traditional hours from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM).

Offering of the Candle to San Donato

After two years in a reduced format, the Offering of the Candle to San Donato ceremony returns in its full version, with the participation of representatives from the Signa Arretii association, the Musici della Giostra del Saracino group, the four quarters, historical groups from the Province of Arezzo, mayors of Aretine municipalities, and the Magistracy of the Joust. During the ceremony, a votive candle decorated by the Sienese artist Rita Rossella Ciani will be offered to San Donato. She also decorates the candles offered by the quarters to Blessed Gregory during the ceremony that opens the Jousting year in January.

August 6th Schedule:

• 8:15 PM: Gathering in Piazza San Domenico of the representatives participating in the procession.

• 8:30 PM: The procession moves towards the Cathedral along via Sasso Verde and via Ricasoli.

• 8:45 PM: The procession passes via Ricasoli and the authorities join the participants.

• 9:00 PM: Procession enters the Cathedral.

• 9:15 PM: Official start of the ceremony.

• 10:00 PM: End of the ceremony and performance by the Musici della Giostra del Saracino group in via Ricasoli.

• 11:00 PM: Fireworks display from the Medici Fortress with magnificent red and gold fireworks in honor of San Donato, followed by the colors of the four quarters and a final tribute to the winner of the last Joust of the Saracen, Porta Santo Spirito.

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