Piero della Francesca – A Pioneer of the Renaissance

Germany (2025) 53 min.

dir. Marion Kollbach

The Documentary explores the enigmatic “King of Painting”. It takes us on a visual journey through the “Terre di Piero” tracing the mysteries of the paintings with scientists and locals and bringing Piero’s world to life by linking past and present. We follow in the footsteps of the enigmatic universal genius (1422-1492). Why is Piero still fascinating today? What makes his art so timeless? Art historian Machtelt Brüggen Israels and historian Carlo Ginzburg reveal the stories behind his iconic works. The film also takes us on a visual journey through Tuscany, Umbria and Le Marche – the “Terre di Piero”. In Piero’s birthplace of Sansepolcro, locals talk about Piero’s influence around a table – accompanied by Renaissance recipes that reflect his art in culinary terms. During the Second World War, a British officer saved his masterpiece “The Resurrection of Christ” by stopping the bombardment – inspired by Aldous Huxley’s words: “The most beautiful picture in the world.” More than just an art historical film, this homage combines past and present, people and landscapes – and brings Piero’s world to life.

“Master of Art” Film Festival 2026

  • Sofia, Cinema G8, 21 February, 16:00
  • Sofia, Eurocinema, 22 February, 15:00