Exploring the Renaissance Charm of Urbino, Italy

Echoes of the Renaissance

Today, Urbino unveiled more of its Renaissance charm. Maximilian and I explored serene churches, bustling squares, and ancient museums, each corner whispering stories of the past. It was a day of immersing ourselves in the art and history that makes this town so special.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Trattoria del Leone' di Lucarini Mauro.
The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air as we settled into a cozy corner. This family-run trattoria, recommended for its vegan options, felt like a warm embrace. We savored every bite, fueling up for a day of exploration.
I opted for a simple yet satisfying *crescia* with grilled vegetables, while Maximilian enjoyed a hearty serving of *fagioli all'uccelletto*.
Fueled and ready, we set out to discover Urbino's hidden gems.

Our first stop was the Chiesa di San Bernardino, a short drive from the city center.
The church sits serenely on a hill, offering a panoramic view of Urbino. Built in the late 15th century, it served as a ducal mausoleum, commissioned by Federico da Montefeltro. The architecture, attributed to Francesco di Giorgio Martini and possibly influenced by Donato Bramante, exuded a sense of peace and harmony.
Maximilian and I wandered through the church, admiring its clean lines and understated elegance. The simple brick exterior gave way to a serene interior, where the remains of Federico da Montefeltro and his son, Guidobaldo, rest in marble sarcophagi. The church’s design, with its Latin cross and single nave, invited quiet contemplation.
I found myself reflecting on the power and vision of the Montefeltro family, who transformed Urbino into a center of Renaissance art and culture. The surrounding hills of the Cesane area provided a stunning backdrop, making the experience even more memorable.
As we stepped outside, the sun was shining, casting a golden glow over the landscape. I couldn't resist taking a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this tranquil place. The air was fresh, carrying the scent of wildflowers and the distant sound of church bells. It was a perfect start to our day.


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

Next, we headed back towards the heart of Urbino to explore the Republic Square. This bustling square, also known as Piazza della Repubblica, is the city's meeting point, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops. As we approached, we were immediately drawn in by the lively atmosphere. Locals and tourists mingled, enjoying the beautiful Sunday afternoon.
The square is trapezoidal in shape, with a charming fountain designed by Diomede Catalucci at its center. Maximilian and I strolled around, taking in the sights and sounds. The Palazzo degli Scolopi and Palazzo del Legato Albani stood majestically, adding to the square's architectural charm. We paused for a moment to watch a group of children playing near the fountain, their laughter echoing through the square.
I couldn’t help but feel a sense of joy and connection to the community. Republic Square is more than just a physical space; it’s the heart of Urbino, where people come together to celebrate life and culture. We found a cozy café and ordered *due cappuccini*, savoring the moment and soaking in the vibrant energy of the square.
Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, pointed out the various architectural details of the surrounding buildings, sharing interesting facts and anecdotes. I appreciated his knowledge and enthusiasm, which always added depth to our travels. As we sipped our cappuccinos, we made plans for the rest of the day, eager to see what other treasures Urbino had in store for us.


Explore the captivating Republic Square in Urbino, Italy—where history, culture, and vibrant local life seamlessly intertwine.

Our final attraction for the day was the Museo Lapidario, housed within the Palazzo Ducale. This museum holds a rich collection of ancient stone artifacts, sculptures, and inscriptions, offering a glimpse into Urbino's Roman past.
Unfortunately, upon arrival, we discovered that the Museo Lapidario was temporarily closed due to ongoing maintenance at the Palazzo Ducale. While we were disappointed, Maximilian and I took the opportunity to explore the exterior of the palace, marveling at its Renaissance architecture and intricate details.
The Palazzo Ducale is a masterpiece of art and engineering, a testament to the vision and ambition of Federico da Montefeltro. We walked around the courtyard, admiring the elegant arches and sculpted facades. Maximilian pointed out the various symbols and emblems that adorned the palace, explaining their historical significance. Although we couldn't visit the Museo Lapidario, we still felt a sense of connection to the past, imagining the palace in its full glory during the Renaissance era.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments are not the ones we plan, but the unexpected detours that lead us to new discoveries.

Explore the ancient wonders at Museo Lapidario in Urbino, a must-visit museum showcasing exquisite artifacts and rich history.

After our brief detour, we decided to indulge in a delightful lunch at Atabulus Enoteca con cucina. This charming restaurant, known for its local cuisine and cozy atmosphere, was the perfect spot to refuel after a morning of exploration. We settled into a table in the *cortile interno*, a picturesque courtyard filled with flowers and greenery.
The menu featured a variety of traditional dishes, and we decided to share a few to get a taste of the local flavors. We started with a *tagliere* of local cured meats and cheeses, accompanied by *crescia*, a traditional flatbread from the region. The flavors were rich and satisfying, a perfect reflection of the local terroir. For our main courses, I opted for the *ravioli al tartufo*, while Maximilian chose the *schiaffoni con guanciale*. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor and authenticity.
The service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, surrounded by the love and passion for food. As we finished our meal, we lingered over a glass of local wine, savoring the moment and reflecting on the day's adventures. Atabulus Enoteca con cucina was a true gem, a place where we could experience the heart and soul of Urbino through its cuisine.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Atabulus Enoteca con Cucina in beautiful Urbino.

After a satisfying lunch, Maximilian and I decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Old Garage Vintage. This quirky shop, located near Republic Square, was a treasure trove of vintage clothing, accessories, and memorabilia. As we stepped inside, we were transported back in time, surrounded by racks of retro dresses, shelves of antique jewelry, and displays of vintage posters.
The shop was small but packed with character, each item telling a story of the past. I browsed through the racks of clothing, admiring the intricate details and unique designs. Maximilian, always on the lookout for a good bargain, scoured the shelves of accessories, hoping to find a hidden gem.
I ended up purchasing a beautiful vintage scarf, its silk fabric adorned with a delicate floral pattern. Maximilian, on the other hand, found a classic leather belt, its buckle etched with a vintage design. We left the shop with our treasures, feeling a sense of excitement and satisfaction. Old Garage Vintage was more than just a store; it was a portal to the past, a place where we could discover unique and timeless pieces that reflected our personal style.
It was a fun interlude and a nice change of pace from the historical sites we had visited earlier in the day.


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

As evening approached, we made our way to Ristorante Pizzeria Locanda Del Blasone for dinner. This cozy restaurant, recommended for its traditional cuisine and warm atmosphere, was the perfect spot to end our day of exploration. We settled into a table on the outdoor terrace, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sounds of the city.
The menu featured a variety of local specialties, and we decided to try a few to get a taste of Urbino's culinary heritage. We started with a selection of *olive all'ascolana*, crispy fried olives stuffed with meat, a regional delicacy. For our main courses, I chose the *passatelli conditi con melanzane, pomodorini e menta*, while Maximilian opted for the *tagliata al sale grosso*. Both dishes were expertly prepared, bursting with flavor and authenticity.
The service was attentive and friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. It felt like we were dining with friends, sharing stories and laughter over a delicious meal. As we finished our dinner, we lingered over a glass of local wine, savoring the moment and reflecting on the day's adventures. Ristorante Pizzeria Locanda Del Blasone was a true culinary gem, a place where we could experience the heart and soul of Urbino through its food.
The staff was incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.


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

As we walked back to our accommodation, hand in hand, I reflected on the day's experiences. Urbino had revealed its Renaissance charm, offering a glimpse into its rich history and vibrant culture. From the serene Chiesa di San Bernardino to the bustling Republic Square, each location had left a lasting impression. Although we missed the Museo Lapidario, we still managed to immerse ourselves in the city's art and architecture.
I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this hidden gem of Italy with my beloved Maximilian. His knowledge, enthusiasm, and love for travel always made our adventures even more special. As we prepared for our next day of exploration, I couldn't help but feel excited about what other treasures Urbino had in store for us. Tomorrow we plan to see Porta Santa Lucia, Helical Ramp Bastion, and Grotte di Frasassi - Parcheggio e Biglietteria. It sounds like another exciting day!
I am also looking forward to trying out The Bosom Pub!

That evening, as I wrote in my journal, I realized that Urbino had already captured a piece of my heart. Its timeless beauty and authentic charm had woven a spell, creating memories that I would cherish forever.
Perhaps it was the cobblestone streets, the sun-kissed facades, or the friendly faces of the locals, but something about this town felt like coming home. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that our Italian adventure was just beginning. I am so happy to be sharing this experience with Maximilian.
Maybe I'll find a vintage treasure at Old Garage Vintage to take home and remind me of this trip.