A Romantic Renaissance Getaway in Urbino

Reflections in Urbino's Heart

Today was a day of delving deeper into the soul of Urbino. It was a Monday filled with exploration, reflection, and, of course, delightful Italian flavors. Hans-Peter and I set out to discover more of this Renaissance gem, starting with its spiritual heart and ending with a taste of its local charm.

Our morning began with a leisurely breakfast at Il Grottino. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air as we settled into a cozy corner. I savored a simple yet satisfying breakfast of *cornetto* and cappuccino, while Hans-Peter enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and cured meats. It’s these small, unhurried moments that make traveling so special. We chatted about our plans for the day, the anticipation of exploring the city's religious and artistic treasures building with each sip of coffee. Refueled, we were ready to immerse ourselves in Urbino's rich heritage.


Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Il Grottino in Urbino—where traditional cuisine meets warm hospitality.

Our first stop was the Museo diocesano Albani. As we approached, the museum's unassuming facade gave little hint of the treasures it held within. The Museo diocesano Albani is named in memory of the noble Urbino family of Pope Clement XI Albani (1700-1721). Inside, we were immediately enveloped in a world of ecclesiastical art and history. The museum, housed in the Archbishop's Palace, showcases a diverse collection of religious artifacts spanning from the 13th century to the present day.


Explore the rich artistic heritage of Urbino at Museo Diocesano Albani, home to exquisite sacred art and historical treasures.

I was particularly captivated by the illuminated manuscripts from the 14th and 15th centuries, their intricate details telling stories of faith and artistry. Hans-Peter, with his architect's eye, was fascinated by the bronze candelabrum cast by Francesco di Giorgio Martini. The museum offered a serene and contemplative atmosphere, allowing us to connect with Urbino's spiritual past. Wandering through the rooms, I couldn't help but reflect on the power of art to transcend time and connect us with the beliefs and values of those who came before us. We spent a good couple of hours here, soaking in the history and artistry. It’s amazing how much history is packed into these walls.

Leaving the museum, we walked a short distance to the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta. The cathedral, a neoclassical masterpiece designed by Giuseppe Valadier in the late 18th century, stands as a testament to Urbino's enduring faith. The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta stands as one of Italy's most remarkable religious monuments, showcasing centuries of architectural brilliance and spiritual significance. As we stepped inside, the grandeur of the interior took my breath away. Soaring columns, intricate frescoes, and a sense of profound tranquility filled the space. The cathedral is stunning, a true testament to neoclassical architecture.


Discover the exquisite beauty and rich history of the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in Urbino, a must-visit destination for culture and architecture lovers.

The echoes of history resonate within these sacred walls, reminding us of the enduring power of faith and art.

I found myself drawn to the main altar, its ornate details and the soft glow of candlelight creating a serene ambiance. Hans-Peter admired the stained-glass windows, their vibrant colors casting patterns on the marble floor. We lit a couple of candles for our daughter Emily, hoping she is doing well in Berlin. We sat in silence for a few moments, absorbing the peaceful atmosphere and reflecting on the beauty that surrounded us. It was a moment of quiet contemplation amidst our travels, a chance to reconnect with our spirituality and appreciate the artistry that humanity can create in devotion.

By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite. We decided to try Ristorante Taverna La Fornarina , a local favorite known for its traditional Marche cuisine. The restaurant had a rustic and inviting atmosphere, with exposed brick walls and wooden tables. It felt like stepping into someone's home. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, accompanied by crusty bread and a glass of crisp white wine. For our main courses, I opted for the *tagliatelle al ragu*, while Hans-Peter chose the *coniglio in porchetta*. Each dish was a celebration of local flavors, prepared with care and passion. The tagliatelle was rich and satisfying, the pasta perfectly cooked and the ragu bursting with flavor. Hans-Peter raved about his rabbit dish, the meat tender and flavorful, infused with the aromas of herbs and spices. The portions were generous and the prices reasonable. It was a truly authentic Italian dining experience.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Taverna La Fornarina in Urbino – where tradition meets taste.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the streets of Urbino, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the architecture. We passed by the Albornoz Fortress, perched high above the city, and made a mental note to visit it another day. The views from up there must be spectacular. We wandered through the Piazza della Repubblica, the heart of Urbino, watching locals and tourists alike go about their day. The city had a vibrant energy, a sense of history and culture blending seamlessly with modern life. The streets were bustling with activity, students chatting, locals running errands, and tourists snapping photos. It was a lively and engaging atmosphere.

As evening approached, we decided to indulge in a pre-dinner drink at L'HOST: wine beer & something else. This cozy bar offered a wide selection of local wines and craft beers. I opted for a glass of the local red wine, while Hans-Peter chose a craft beer. We sat at a small table outside, watching the world go by. The bar had a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. We chatted with the friendly bartender, who recommended a few local dishes to try for dinner. It was a pleasant way to end the day, sipping on local drinks and soaking in the atmosphere of Urbino.


Discover L'HOST in Urbino: A cozy bar offering an exquisite selection of local wines and craft beers in a vibrant atmosphere.

For dinner, we decided to try Il Cortegiano Ristorante , known for its traditional Italian flavors and charming atmosphere. The restaurant was nestled in the heart of Urbino, with a terrace overlooking the stunning cathedral. We started with a *crescia sfogliata*, a local flatbread, which was delicious. For our main courses, I chose the *tagliatelle* prepared in the authentic Urbino style, featuring fresh sausage meat and vegetables, while Hans-Peter had a meaty dish. The staff were super friendly and very helpful. The restaurant also has a wonderful city garden where you can enjoy your meal. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. The staff were attentive and friendly, making us feel welcome and comfortable. It was the perfect way to end a day of spiritual and culinary exploration.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Cortegiano Ristorante in Urbino - where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.

As we walked back to Hotel Raffaello, the streets of Urbino were quiet and peaceful. The city lights twinkled in the distance, creating a magical atmosphere. We reflected on the day's experiences, the art, the history, and the flavors that had filled our senses. Urbino had captivated us with its charm and beauty, leaving us with memories that we would cherish for years to come. It was a day of discovery, a day of connection, and a day of pure joy.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Botanical Garden of the University and the Urbino viewpoint. It will be another day of exploration and discovery, and I can't wait to see what Urbino has in store for us. Good night from Urbino!