Family Adventure in the Heart of Renaissance Italy: Exploring Urbino

A Day of Discovery in Urbino

Today was a day of delving deeper into the heart of Urbino, uncovering hidden corners and experiencing the city's unique blend of art, faith, and breathtaking scenery. It’s amazing how much history and culture can be packed into a single day, and Urbino certainly didn’t disappoint.

Our day began, as it often does, with the promise of good Italian coffee and pastries. We headed to La Casa Del Pane for breakfast. The aroma of freshly baked bread alone was enough to make my stomach rumble! Isabela, Mateus, and I shared a selection of pastries, each one more delicious than the last. I opted for a cappuccino, while Mateus, ever the enthusiast, chose a vibrant fruit juice. It's these simple moments of togetherness that truly make our family trips special.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off to explore the Museo Diocesano Albani. I must admit, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised. The museum is housed in the former Archbishop's Palace and showcases a fascinating collection of religious art and artifacts. As a historical building restoration consultant, I found myself particularly drawn to the architecture of the palace itself. The intricate details in the stonework and the beautifully preserved frescoes were truly remarkable.


Explore the rich tapestry of religious art at Museo Diocesano Albani in Urbino, a cultural gem showcasing Italy's artistic legacy.
Isabela, with her background as an elementary school teacher, was fantastic at engaging Mateus with the history and stories behind the art. She has a knack for making learning fun, even for a ten-year-old who sometimes prefers football to frescoes! We spent a good couple of hours wandering through the museum, admiring the art and soaking in the atmosphere of reverence and history.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of a city, away from the bustling crowds and well-trodden paths.

Next on our itinerary was the Oratorio della Grotta. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Urbino, this small oratory is a hidden gem. The interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, creating a serene and contemplative space. The dim lighting and the hushed atmosphere added to the sense of tranquility. I lit a candle, offering a silent prayer for my family and our continued adventures together. It’s moments like these that remind me of the importance of faith and the beauty of simplicity.


Explore the Oratorio della Grotta in Urbino, a museum showcasing Renaissance art and spiritual heritage in a serene atmosphere.
After the oratory, we were ready for lunch. Ristorante Pizzeria Locanda Del Blasone was our chosen spot, and it didn't disappoint. We enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Italian fare, including homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza. Mateus, of course, devoured his pizza in record time, while Isabela and I savored each bite of our pasta dishes. The restaurant had a charming, rustic ambiance, and the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Locanda Del Blasone in Urbino—where every meal tells a delicious story.
With our bellies full, we decided to take a leisurely stroll to the Punto Panoramico di Urbino. This panoramic viewpoint offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, stretched out before us in a tapestry of green and gold. The view was simply breathtaking, and I couldn't resist snapping a few photos to capture the moment. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate the beauty of the Italian landscape and the rich history that permeates every corner of this country.


Discover the stunning vistas and rich history at Punto Panoramico di Urbino, a must-see viewpoint in the heart of Italy's Renaissance.
As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. Liliana Martinez - Artigianato Artistico was our chosen destination, and it was a delightful experience. The shop was filled with beautiful handcrafted ceramics, each one unique and exquisite. Isabela, with her keen eye for detail, spent ages admiring the intricate designs. I ended up buying a small ceramic bowl as a souvenir of our trip, a reminder of the beauty and artistry of Urbino.


Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at Liliana Martinez - Artigianato Artistico in Urbino, where local artisans bring creativity to life.
For dinner, we chose La Trattoria del Leone' di Lucarini Mauro. This charming trattoria offered a menu of traditional Urbino cuisine, and we were eager to try some local specialties. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff made us feel right at home. We started with a selection of antipasti, followed by hearty main courses of grilled meat and roasted vegetables. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring and discovering the hidden gems of Urbino.


Experience the heart of Italian cuisine at La Trattoria del Leone - a culinary haven in Urbino offering authentic dishes made with love.
As I sit here now, reflecting on our day, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Urbino has truly captured our hearts, and I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We'll be visiting the Chiesa di San Bernardino, the Teatro Comunale D. Bramante, and the Piazza Mercatale, so stay tuned for more updates from our family adventure in the heart of Renaissance Italy! And perhaps a glass of wine at L'HOST: wine beer & something else!

It's funny, sometimes I feel a pang of longing for Ouro Preto, my hometown in Brazil, with its familiar sights and sounds. But then I experience a day like today, filled with beauty, history, and the joy of discovery, and I realize that home is wherever my family is, wherever we're creating memories together. And right now, that home is Urbino, a city that has welcomed us with open arms and shown us the beauty of its hidden gems.

I almost forgot to mention something funny that happened today. While we were at the Punto Panoramico, Mateus tried to take a selfie with the entire Urbino landscape in the background. He stretched his arm out as far as it could go, nearly lost his balance, and ended up capturing mostly sky and a tiny sliver of the city! We all burst out laughing, and it became a running joke for the rest of the day. It's these little moments of levity that make our family trips so special and memorable.

Before I sign off for the night, I wanted to share a little anecdote about my own connection to historical building restoration. Growing up in Ouro Preto, a city renowned for its Baroque architecture, I was surrounded by history from a young age. My grandfather was a skilled craftsman who worked on restoring many of the city's historic buildings, and I often accompanied him to his job sites. It was there that I developed a deep appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of the past, and it inspired me to pursue a career in historical building restoration myself. So, in a way, my journey to Urbino is a continuation of that lifelong passion, a chance to explore and appreciate the architectural treasures of another culturally rich city.

And speaking of cultural richness, I was particularly struck by the seamless blend of art and faith that permeates Urbino. The Museo Diocesano Albani and the Oratorio della Grotta were both testaments to the city's deep-rooted religious traditions and the artistic expression that has flourished within its walls. It's a reminder that art and faith are often intertwined, each inspiring and enriching the other.

As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The Chiesa di San Bernardino, the Teatro Comunale D. Bramante, and the Piazza Mercatale all beckon, promising new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. And who knows, maybe we'll even stumble upon a few more hidden gems along the way. Until then, goodnight from Urbino, and may your own travels be filled with wonder and inspiration!