TF EU 062011

Ancona

Urbino

• Ducal Palace - Urbino's huge Ducal Palace, Palazzo Ducale, is one of the most impressive (and also the first) in Italy. The Ducal Palace was built in the second half of the fifteenth century. Top sites are the impressive Courtyard of Honor, the Duke's study with stunning trompe l'oeil inlaid woodwork panels, and the vast network of kitchens, laundry rooms, cellars, and stables. It's easy to spend several hours wandering through the palace and two musuems, the National Gallery and the Archaeological Museum.
• Marche National Gallery - Inside the Ducal Palace, the National Art Gallery of the Marche, Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, has one of the most important collections of Renaissance paintings in the world.
• Duomo - The Duomo or cathedral was constructed on top of a sixth century religous building. Completed in 1604, it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1789 and then rebuilt. The duomo now has a neo-classical appearance and houses several important art works, including a painting of the Last Supper by Federico Barocci. The Museo Diocesano has a collection of glass, ceramics, and religious items.
• Piazza Rinascmento, Piazza della Republica, and Piazza Duca Federico - The center of Urbino is formed by these two squares. Here you'll find cafes, shops, and lots of people.
• Raphael's House - The Renaissance painter Raphael was born in Urbino (in 1483) and his family's house is now a museum.
• Oratorio di San Giuseppe - This medieval church on Via Barocci is known for its presepio, or nativity scene. Nearby is the Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista with beautfiul 15th century frescoes.
• Albornz Fortress - The small fortress at the top of Urbino is a great place for views of the town and surrounding hills. It was built in the fourteenth century and was the defensive point for the walls, built in the sixteenth century. It's now a library and public park.
• Botanical Garden - The small orto botanico is nicely laid out with labeled plants, ponds, and pathways. Entrance is free.