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Discover Urbino
Urbino, nestled in the rolling hills of the Marche (Le Marche) region in central Italy, is a captivating town with a rich and layered history. Originally founded by the ancient Umbrians, it was successively shaped by the Etruscans, Celts, Gauls, and later the Romans in the 3rd century BCE. Its strategic location eventually drew the attention of the Church, which held sway over the town from the 9th century. However, a turning point came in the 12th century when Urbino passed into the hands of the powerful Montefeltro family, heralding a golden age of cultural flourishing, so you have to Discover Urbino for sure .
Under the enlightened rule of Federico da Montefeltro (1444–1482) and his son Guidobaldo (1482–1508), Urbino became a Renaissance powerhouse, attracting artists, writers, and thinkers. The renowned painter Raphael was born here in 1483, adding further to the city’s legacy. Though later the Della Rovere family expanded the dukedom’s influence, the relocation of the court to Pesaro signaled a period of decline. Eventually, the dukedom was absorbed into the Papal States in 1626 and later the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.
👉 Learn more about Federico da Montefeltro and the Renaissance court
Urbino’s Old Town and Artistic Treasures
Despite changes over centuries, the medieval layout of Urbino’s historic center remains intact, offering a timeless charm. While most buildings reflect 17th- and 18th-century architecture, the town’s soul is unmistakably Renaissance. Among its crown jewels is the magnificent Ducal Palace, now home to the National Gallery of the Marches, which houses masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance. Not far away lies the Mausoleum of San Bernardino, a serene tribute to the city’s noble past.
The Urbino Cathedral, originally constructed in the 15th century, was beautifully rebuilt in the Neoclassical style after an earthquake in 1789. Just outside the ancient city walls lies a modern residential area, developed in more recent times but distinctly separate from the medieval core.
👉 Explore the National Gallery of the Marches
Urbino Today: A Cultural and Educational Haven
Today, Urbino may be off the beaten path—isolated from major highways—but it remains a destination rich in culture and intellectual life. Though agriculture has waned, the town thrives on tourism and its prestigious university, founded in 1506. The university continues to attract students from all over the world, keeping the town youthful and vibrant.
Historically, Urbino was also a renowned center for majolica—a type of tin-glazed pottery. Notable artisans such as Francesco Xanto Avelli of Rovigo helped elevate its craftsmanship to international acclaim during the 16th century. Today, collectors and historians still admire pieces like his 1536 majolica bowl, now preserved in the Taft Museum of Art in Cincinnati, Ohio.
👉 Discover majolica ceramics and Urbino’s legacy
With its historic legacy, enduring artistic appeal, and youthful energy, Urbino remains one of Italy’s hidden cultural treasures. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of Raphael or simply soaking in the panoramic views from its hills, Urbino is a destination that invites exploration and inspires wonder.
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