Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with Family

A Day of Serenity and Sociability

Today was a beautiful blend of spiritual reflection and relaxed socializing here in Urbino. It’s amazing how much history and culture is packed into this relatively small area. Mei-Ling and Lin were excited to explore a different side of Urbino, and I was eager to capture it all through my lens.

Our day began, as it often does, with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Raffaello. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the warm pastries were the perfect way to start a day filled with exploration. Lin was particularly fond of the cornetto, and Mei-Ling enjoyed a cappuccino while I savored my usual espresso, contemplating the day ahead. After breakfast, we set out to visit the Chiesa di San Bernardino, located a short distance from the city center. The walk itself was lovely, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. As we walked, I couldn't help but think about how different this landscape is from the tea plantations of my childhood in Douliu. Yet, both places share a sense of tranquility and connection to the land.

The Chiesa di San Bernardino, also known as the Mausoleo dei Duchi, is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. Built in the late 15th century, it stands on the hill of San Donato, offering a beautiful vista of Urbino. The church was commissioned by Federico da Montefeltro as a burial place for himself and his successors. Its design is often attributed to Francesco di Giorgio Martini, with some contribution from the young Donato Bramante. The clean lines and harmonious proportions of the church are truly captivating. As we approached, I took several photographs, trying to capture the essence of its serene beauty. The exterior, made of brick, is simple yet elegant, with minimal ornamentation, allowing the architectural form to speak for itself. Inside, the church has a Latin cross layout with a single nave that extends into a deep rectangular choir. The interior is divided into two levels by a frame, and the nave features a cornice with an inscription dedicated to Saint Bernardino. The sarcophagi of Federico da Montefeltro and his son Guidobaldo, crafted from Baroque marble, stand near the entrance. I explained to Lin the historical significance of the Montefeltro family and their contribution to Urbino's rich cultural heritage. She seemed genuinely interested, asking questions about the dukes and their lives. Mei-Ling appreciated the architectural details, pointing out the subtle nuances that made the church so special. Originally, the church housed Piero della Francesca's Pala Montefeltro, now located in the Pinacoteca di Brera in Milan. I could only imagine how magnificent it must have been to see that masterpiece in its original setting. We spent a quiet moment reflecting on the history and artistry contained within those walls.


Explore the serene Chiesa di San Bernardino, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and a tranquil retreat in the heart of Urbino, Italy.

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller. - Ibn Battuta

Leaving the Chiesa di San Bernardino, we made our way to our next destination: the Abbazia di San Vincenzo al Furlo. This Benedictine abbey is located near the Gola del Furlo, in the Pianacce area. The drive to the abbey was picturesque, winding through rolling hills and lush countryside. The abbey’s history dates back to the end of the 10th century, during the height of Benedictine influence in Europe. It was built on the left bank of the Candigliano River, near the ancient Roman city of Pitinum Mergens. The location was strategically chosen, as it allowed the abbey to collect offerings from travelers passing through the Furlo Pass. According to legend, the abbey housed the relics of San Vincenzo, the bishop of Bevagna, from the 6th to the 17th centuries. The abbey was once divided into three naves, each ending in an apse, but over the centuries, it has been significantly altered, now featuring a single nave. The monastery, with its cloister, was located to the right of the church. The entire complex was constructed using local corniola stone, while the church's flooring consisted of large, thick slabs of Roman and early Christian origin.

Arriving at the Abbazia di San Vincenzo al Furlo, we were struck by its serene and somewhat isolated setting. The abbey exuded a sense of timelessness, its ancient stones whispering stories of centuries past. We explored the grounds, imagining the lives of the monks who once lived and prayed there. The surrounding natural reserve of Gola del Furlo added to the sense of peace and tranquility. Lin enjoyed exploring the natural surroundings, while Mei-Ling and I appreciated the historical and architectural significance of the abbey. The visit to the Abbazia di San Vincenzo al Furlo was a deeply enriching experience, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and historical fabric of this region. We learned that the abbey's decline began in 1439 when Pope Eugene IV assigned it to the chapter of Urbino, along with all its assets. Despite the alterations and the passage of time, the abbey still retains a sense of its former glory. It’s a place where one can truly feel connected to the past, reflecting on the lives and events that have shaped the region. After our visit to the abbey, we were ready for a late lunch. We drove back towards Urbino and stopped at Ristorante Taverna La Fornarina. The restaurant had a cozy, rustic atmosphere, and the menu featured traditional dishes from the region. I ordered a plate of handmade pasta with truffles, a local specialty, while Mei-Ling opted for a grilled vegetable platter, and Lin chose a simple Margherita pizza. The food was delicious, and we enjoyed the relaxed ambiance of the taverna. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to recharge after a day of exploration.


Discover the serene Abbazia di San Vincenzo al Furlo, a stunning abbey in Acqualagna, rich in history and surrounded by picturesque landscapes.

As evening approached, we decided to experience Urbino’s nightlife. We ventured to Underground PUB, a local spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide selection of beers. I must admit, I was a bit hesitant at first, as I usually prefer quieter settings. However, I wanted to give Lin a taste of the local culture, and Mei-Ling was also curious to see what the pub had to offer. Underground PUB turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The atmosphere was lively but not overwhelming, and the staff were friendly and attentive. They had an impressive selection of local and international beers. I decided to try a craft beer from a nearby brewery, while Mei-Ling opted for a glass of local wine, and Lin enjoyed a non-alcoholic beverage. The pub was filled with locals and tourists alike, creating a diverse and welcoming environment. We struck up conversations with some of the patrons, learning more about life in Urbino and sharing stories from our travels. Lin was fascinated by the music and the energy of the pub, and she even tried her hand at a game of darts with some of the locals. It was heartwarming to see her engaging with people from different backgrounds and cultures. We stayed at Underground PUB for a couple of hours, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the camaraderie. It was a fun and memorable way to end our day in Urbino.


Discover the lively spirit of Urbino at Underground Pub, where local culture meets delicious drinks and great company.

For dinner, we chose La Cucina di Taty, a restaurant recommended by several locals. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance, and the menu featured a range of traditional Italian dishes. I ordered a seafood risotto, while Mei-Ling chose a vegetarian lasagna, and Lin opted for a classic spaghetti Bolognese. The food was excellent, and the service was impeccable. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable. It was a fitting end to a day filled with exploration and discovery. After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll back to Hotel Raffaello, enjoying the cool evening air and the quiet streets of Urbino. The city was peaceful and serene, illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights. We reflected on the day’s experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful and historic city with our family. As we walked, I thought about tomorrow's itinerary, which includes a visit to Parco della Resistenza and the Urbino viewpoint. I am looking forward to capturing more of Urbino's beauty through my lens and sharing our experiences with you all. It’s moments like these that make traveling so rewarding, creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds between family members. The blend of historical exploration, spiritual reflection, and social interaction made today a truly special one. As we prepare for another day of adventures, I am filled with anticipation and excitement for what lies ahead.


Discover the charm of Urbino at Hotel Raffaello, where comfort meets convenience in a centrally located haven for travelers and tourists.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you all, and I hope that my stories inspire you to explore the world and appreciate the beauty and diversity of different cultures. Until tomorrow, arrivederci from Urbino!