Piazza Dante

Piazza Dante Alighieri is the central square in Grosseto and is home to many important buildings in the city.

Formerly known as the Square of Chains, it is located between the southern side of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the main facade of Aldobrandeschi palace and an arcade of lovely shops and restaurants. In the centre of it is a statue dedicated to Grand Duke Leopold II of Lorraine, which rises where once the main well of the city was located. The other square is bordered by the cathedral, the Palazzo Comunale and Palazzo Alben. In the northernmost part is Corso Carducci, which is the main strip.

As well as the wonderful palazzos and Duomo that flank the square, Piazza Dante stands out as the most beautiful and social part of Grosseto. From early in the morning to late in the evening, you’ll see nonnas doing their shopping, families window shopping and couples escaping it all with a quick espresso. There is always someone reading/relaxing in the piazza and it’s just a really lovely place to be. The pastel colours of the buildings and venerable old arcade add to the illusion that you’re in a northern Italian city full of life and history.