Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino with Friends

A Day of Renaissance Wonders

Today was a day of delving deeper into Urbino's soul, venturing beyond the well-trodden paths to uncover hidden gems that whispered stories of the past. With my friends by my side, I was eager to explore the artistic and cultural treasures that this Renaissance city had to offer. The day was a blend of historical exploration, culinary delights, and a touch of vintage charm, making it a truly immersive experience.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Raffaello. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of locals chatting animatedly filled the air. I ordered a cappuccino and a *cornetto*, a local pastry, which gave me the perfect energy boost for the day ahead. The café was cozy, and the staff were incredibly welcoming, making it a great spot to start our Urbino adventure. It felt like a truly authentic Italian experience, far removed from the usual tourist traps. Sipping my coffee, I couldn't help but think of Fatima and the kids back in Edmonton. I made a mental note to try and recreate this experience for them when I got back home.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off to our first destination: the Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista. Tucked away on Via Barocci, this unassuming building holds an artistic treasure trove within its walls. As we stepped inside, we were immediately transported back to the 15th century. The oratory is adorned with frescoes by the Salimbeni brothers, Lorenzo and Jacopo, depicting scenes from the life of Saint John the Baptist. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the frescoes were breathtaking, and I found myself completely absorbed in the stories they told. The Crucifixion scene, in particular, was incredibly powerful, conveying a sense of both tragedy and hope. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the oratory and the artists who created these masterpieces.


Discover the serene Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista, a hidden gem in Urbino featuring stunning Renaissance art and a peaceful atmosphere.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our itinerary was the Museo Diocesano Albani. Housed in the Archbishop's Palace, this museum showcases a collection of sacred art and artifacts from the Diocese of Urbino. As a history enthusiast, I was particularly excited to see the displays of liturgical vestments, religious paintings, and ancient manuscripts. The museum provided a fascinating glimpse into the religious history of Urbino and the surrounding region. One of the highlights was the Oratorio della Grotta, a subterranean chapel with stunning sculptures and frescoes. The serene atmosphere of the chapel was conducive to reflection, and I spent a few moments in quiet contemplation, thinking about my family and our journey through life. It was interesting to learn that the museum is named after the Albani family, who were significant patrons of the arts in Urbino.


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

After immersing ourselves in art and history, we decided to take a break and enjoy a leisurely lunch. We chose Ristorante Pizzeria Locanda Del Blasone, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Marchigiano cuisine. We shared a variety of local specialties, including *passatelli* with porcini mushrooms and truffle oil, and *vincisgrassi*, a rich lasagna-like dish. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and we savored every moment of the meal. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive. It was the perfect place to relax and recharge before continuing our exploration of Urbino.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Locanda Del Blasone in Urbino—where every meal tells a delicious story.

With renewed energy, we made our way to the Parco della Resistenza. This park, located on Monte San Sergio, offers panoramic views of Urbino and the surrounding countryside. As we strolled through the park, we admired the lush greenery and the colorful flowers that dotted the landscape. The air was fresh and clean, and the atmosphere was peaceful and serene. At the heart of the park stands the Fortezza Albornoz, a historic fortress that now houses a museum. Although the museum was closed during our visit, we enjoyed exploring the grounds and taking in the breathtaking views of Urbino. From this vantage point, we could see the entire city spread out before us, its red-tiled roofs and Renaissance architecture gleaming in the afternoon sun. It was a truly unforgettable sight.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Parco della Resistenza in Urbino, where history meets nature in the heart of Italy's picturesque Marche region.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy. We stumbled upon Old Garage Vintage, a quirky shop that was filled with unique clothing and accessories. As someone who appreciates unique finds, I was immediately drawn to the shop's eclectic collection. I spent a happy hour browsing through the racks, trying on vintage jackets and hats, and admiring the retro décor. I ended up buying a stylish leather belt and a vintage scarf, which I knew Fatima would adore. The shop owner was friendly and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the history of the items and offering styling tips. It was a fun and memorable shopping experience.


Explore Old Garage Vintage in Urbino for a unique selection of retro and contemporary fashion that embodies local style and creativity.

Before dinner, we stopped by MaiSenza Lounge Bar for an aperitivo. This trendy bar is known for its creative cocktails and its lively atmosphere. We ordered a round of Aperol spritzes and some *stuzzichini*, small snacks that are traditionally served with drinks in Italy. As we sipped our cocktails and nibbled on olives and bruschetta, we watched the sun set over the city. The sky was ablaze with color, and the air was filled with the sound of laughter and music. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring Urbino.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of MaiSenza Lounge Bar in Urbino, where delightful drinks and live music create unforgettable memories.

For our final meal of the day, we dined at Ristorante Osteria L'Angolo Divino. This cozy *osteria* is known for its traditional Urbino cuisine and its warm, inviting atmosphere. The chef, Tiziano Rossetti, is passionate about using local ingredients and creating dishes that reflect the culinary heritage of the region. We feasted on handmade pasta, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables, all cooked to perfection. The meal was a true celebration of Italian flavors, and we left feeling completely satisfied. As we walked back to our guesthouse, we reflected on the incredible day we had experienced. Urbino had exceeded our expectations, captivating us with its art, history, and charm.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Osteria L'Angolo Divino in Urbino – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Casa dei Barocci, Chiesa di San Bernardino, and Museo Lapidario. I am excited to uncover even more of Urbino's hidden treasures. I am also looking forward to visiting Maroccini - Articoli da Regalo & Liste Nozze to purchase some gifts for Fatima and the kids. Before dinner at Il Cortegiano Ristorante, we will stop by Urbino Jazz Club.

I'm so grateful for this experience and the chance to share it with my friends. Until tomorrow, *adeus*!