Solo Renaissance Adventure in Urbino

A Day of Renaissance Wonder in Urbino

Another day in Urbino, and another opportunity to soak in the city's timeless beauty! Today was all about exploring the cultural heart of Urbino, from its historic theater to its stunning cathedral and vibrant central square. It’s amazing how much history is packed into this relatively small city. I felt like I was walking through the pages of a Renaissance history book, each corner revealing a new story.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Lamonaca • since 1967. This charming spot has been around since 1967, and it’s easy to see why it’s a local favorite. I enjoyed a cappuccino and a pastry, soaking in the lively atmosphere as locals chatted and prepared for the day. The staff was incredibly friendly, making me feel right at home. It’s these little moments that really make a trip special, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of the city. It reminded me of the cafes back in Tiberias, where the simple act of having coffee is a social ritual.

Fueled up and ready to go, my first stop was the Teatro Comunale D. Bramante. Now, a bit of clarification is needed here. While my itinerary mentioned Teatro Comunale D. Bramante, it seems there might be a slight mix-up. The Teatro Bramante is actually located in Urbania, a neighboring town. Urbino, however, boasts its own rich theatrical history. It seems Urbino once had a Teatro delle Muse, which was replaced by the Teatro Comunale. Perhaps the itinerary meant to suggest looking into the theatrical traditions of the region, inspired by the spirit of Donato Bramante. Regardless, understanding the historical context of theater in this area is fascinating, especially knowing that the province of Pesaro e Urbino has a strong tradition in Italian theater. The scenic designs introduced in Urbino in 1513 significantly influenced European theater.


Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Urbania at Teatro Comunale D.Bramante, a historical theater showcasing vibrant performances.
So, while I didn't visit the specific Teatro Comunale D. Bramante today, I took the opportunity to learn about the broader theatrical history of the region. I imagined the performances that might have taken place in Urbino over the centuries, the stories that were told, and the emotions that were shared. It's a reminder that every city has its own unique cultural heritage, waiting to be discovered. The Teatro Bramante in Urbania was built to replace an older theater and was designed by Ercole Salmi, who also designed the theater in Gubbio. The theater replaced the Brancaleone Fortress. The interior has a horseshoe layout with 44 boxes over three tiers.

Next on my list was the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, Urbino's stunning cathedral. This cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, has a history stretching back to 1021 when it was built to replace an older church. The original structure was significantly damaged by earthquakes in the late 18th century, leading to a reconstruction in the neoclassical style by Giuseppe Valadier. Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the soaring dome and the sense of peace that filled the space. The interior is adorned with beautiful artwork, including Federico Barocci’s famous “Last Supper”. I spent a good hour wandering around, admiring the intricate details and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. As someone who appreciates history and art, I found the cathedral to be an incredibly moving and inspiring place. The cathedral has paintings, sculptures, and liturgical furnishings from the 16th to 18th centuries. The apse chapels are decorated with gilded stucco work and paintings by artists from the School of Federico Barocci.


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.

Urbino is a city where every stone tells a story, and every corner reveals a masterpiece.

Leaving the cathedral, I made my way to the Piazza della Repubblica, the heart of Urbino. This central square is a hub of activity, with locals and tourists alike gathering to chat, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere. The Piazza della Repubblica is surrounded by historic buildings and is a meeting place for locals and university students. The square was once a bustling market and is connected to Piazza Duca Federico by Via Vittorio Veneto. I found a spot at a café and ordered a gelato, savoring the sweet treat as I watched the world go by. The square is also home to a fountain built in 1927. It was the perfect place to people-watch and soak in the vibrant energy of the city. The warm June weather made it even more enjoyable, as the square was filled with people enjoying the sunshine. The square is a culinary paradise, with cafes and restaurants lining the edges. It's the perfect spot to relax and immerse yourself in the local culture.


Explore the bustling charm of Piazza della Repubblica, the vibrant heart of Urbino, where history meets modern-day Italian culture.
For lunch, I decided to try La Trattoria del Leone' di Lucarini Mauro. This charming trattoria is known for its authentic Italian cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. I ordered the ravioli all'ortica, a ravioli stuffed with nettles and caciotta, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. The service was excellent, and the staff made me feel like a regular. It was a truly memorable meal, and I would highly recommend this trattoria to anyone visiting Urbino. The restaurant is small and popular, so reservations are recommended. The staff is efficient and the prices are reasonable. The cuisine is Italian with some international influences, and the food quality is good.


Experience the heart of Italian cuisine at La Trattoria del Leone - a culinary haven in Urbino offering authentic dishes made with love.
After lunch, I felt like doing some shopping, so I headed to Emporio Gamba. This local shop offers a great selection of clothing. I didn’t buy anything, but it was fun browsing the displays and seeing what the local fashion trends are. Emporio Gamba is located in Corso Garibaldi Giuseppe.


Explore Emporio Gamba in Urbino for stylish clothing that beautifully blends contemporary and classic Italian fashion, perfect for every wardrobe.
As the afternoon wore on, I decided to treat myself to a drink at MaiSenza Lounge Bar. This trendy bar has a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of wines and cocktails. I ordered a glass of local wine and sat outside, enjoying the beautiful views of the city. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The bar offers a variety of dishes, including pasta and desserts, with a focus on quality products. The outdoor terrace is a highlight of the bar.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of MaiSenza Lounge Bar in Urbino, where delightful drinks and live music create unforgettable memories.
Before heading back to the hotel, I took one last stroll through the Piazza della Repubblica, soaking in the atmosphere and reflecting on the day’s adventures. The square was even more lively in the evening, with street performers entertaining the crowds and locals enjoying their evening passeggiata. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. I am already thinking about what I want to do tomorrow. I am planning on visiting the Palazzo Albani, Porta Santa Lucia, and the Museo Lapidario. It’s going to be another day filled with art, history, and culture.

One thing I’ve learned on this trip is the importance of being flexible and open to new experiences. While I may not have visited the specific theater on my itinerary, I discovered so much more about the theatrical history of the region. And that, to me, is what travel is all about: embracing the unexpected and finding joy in the journey. It reminds me of something my grandmother used to say:

           

Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans.

It’s a good reminder to stay present and appreciate the moments as they come. As I walked back to Hotel Raffaello, I felt grateful for another day of discovery in this beautiful city. Urbino continues to surprise and delight me at every turn, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. Good night from Urbino!


Discover the charm of Urbino at Hotel Raffaello, where comfort meets convenience in a centrally located haven for travelers and tourists.
Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Palazzo Albani, Porta Santa Lucia and Museo Lapidario, and I am excited to see what those attractions hold. I also plan to have breakfast at Caffè del Teatro, lunch at Osteria Gula - Urbino, and dinner at La Terrazza del Duca Urbino. I also intend to visit the Liliana Martinez - Artigianato Artistico shop and Underground PUB.