URBINO private tour: the renaissance town of Raffaello

Join us on a spellbinding journey through Urbino with our guided tour, a captivating odyssey back in time that plunges you deep into the heart of the Renaissance era. Traverse the enchanting alleys of this town, a tapestry woven with the threads of history, fragrances, artisanal shops. Begin your exploration at the birthplace of Urbino’s most illustrious artist, Raffaello Sanzio, a painter and architect emblematic of the Renaissance whose works are renowned worldwide. We’ll narrate his story, from his early paintings in his father’s workshop to his most prestigious works, all while traversing the main street that bears his name.

Next, venture to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the city’s most significant church located at the heart of the historic center. Rebuilt several times due to earthquakes, it features a beautiful neoclassical facade. Inside, you’ll encounter precious paintings and explore the caves that served various purposes, from storing Venetian artworks to providing shelter during World War II.

A stone’s throw from the Cathedral stands the symbolic masterpiece of the city, the Palazzo Ducale. This fortified mini-city was envisioned by Federico da Montefeltro, who sought to transform Urbino into an ideal city, attracting the most brilliant artists of his time. Today, it houses the National Gallery of Marche, safeguarding priceless works by Raffaello, Tiziano, and Piero della Francesca.

This imposing structure, rising on two different levels in Urbino’s vertical cityscape, deserves to be admired from all angles. Continue the tour by traversing the distinctive spiral ramps, capturing the beauty of the Egyptian obelisk gifted in 1737 by Cardinal Albani. These ramps, ingeniously designed by the Duke for horseback access, now stand as both an architectural marvel and a panoramic viewpoint showcasing the grandeur of the Palace.

Adjacent to the ramps, discover the Raffaello Sanzio Theater, inaugurated in the mid-19th century and still hosting a variety of performances. The guided tour concludes with enchanting views of the town and Porta Valbena, one of the main entryways to the historic center, nestled within the protective city walls.

Included:

• Walking tour with licensed tour guide

Not included:

• Food and drinks
  
• St. Maria Assunta cathedral cave
• Museum

What to bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• Water
• Sun hat on hot days

Meeting point:

• Raffaello Sanzio house ( via Raffaello street, 57 )