Pesaro, Senigallia, Gubbio, San Leo, Cagli and Fossembrone -- all are perfect archetypical towns strung out along the Apennines on the Tuscany / Emily Romagna border. But it is Urbino that bore the honor of becoming a ducal city during the Renaissance, its elegant proportions created at the behest of Federico da Montefeltro.

Urbino is the best-known city of the Marche region. This is not a place for a fleeting visit, but rather a city to carefully explore and enjoy. You will be amazed at its Renaissance cobbled lanes and the enthralling spirit of history that haunts the magnificent buildings of this city. The beauty and splendor of Urbino cannot be portrayed in words; instead, you must spend time wandering the ancient streets to acquire a true understanding of the city's history.

With picturesque stone dwellings scattered along charming city streets and the celebrated Ducal Palace dominating its skyline, Urbino encompasses all that is classic Italy. Urbino is home to many art treasures and Renaissance monuments including Piero della Francesca's Ideal City and Raphael's Ornate House. The cultural beauty within the city walls is rivaled only by the magnificence of the region's surrounding mountains and valleys.

Urbino is perched on two hills between the rivers of Foglia and Metauro, protected from the west by the ridges of the Apennines. Urbino, ancient capital of the dukedom, faces east towards the Adriatic. It was ruled by the Montefeltro family from the twelfth century onwards and reached its peak in the reign of Duke Federico da Montefeltro (1444-82), a wise leader, man of letters, collector and patron of the arts. He had a strong love for the city he created.

The epicenter of Federico's possessions and an outpost commanding the surrounding countryside, the Palazzo Ducale sits on a hill enjoying fine panoramic views. The façade, flanked by two towers, was intended to impress visitors with Federico's power. As well as being a defensive structure, the castle is also an architectural achievement.

Urbino is also known for its historic university, the third oldest in Italy. After you spend a few hours admiring the Palazzo Ducale, a visit to this cradle of culture is a must. Located on the Via Saffi, the building, which was once the home of the counts of Montefeltro, now hosts the university where it's a pleasure to walk in the cloisters.

Urbino's impressive cathedral is in the Piazza Duca Federico. It was rebuilt from the rubble after the earthquake of 1789. Its elegant interior is a fine example of the neoclassical style: a Latin cross with three plain barrel-vaulted naves, the whole covered by a magnificent coffered dome.

Suggested Walking Tour of Urbino

First start at the Piazza Duca Federico by the neo-classical style cathedral, which contains fine paintings by Federico Barocci. Discover the House of Raffaello, the Church of St. Domenico, the university and the oratories of Santa Croce and Sant Giovanni Battista. From here continue on to the Ducale Palace, the greatest jewel in town. You can also use Urbino as a base for excursions to the towns and villages throughout the northern part of Marche -- towns that are as serene and lovely as those in Tuscany, although less known.

Where To Stay

Hotel Bonconte: A lovely four-star, recently restored villa with a charming Renaissance atmosphere. Located in the heart of Urbino's old town near the Ducale Palace on the Via delle Mura 28, Urbino.

Albergo San Domenico: A four-star hotel located in an exceptional location. Albergo San Domenico is a former Renaissance convent located between the Monastero di Santa Chiara and the university on the Piazza del Rinascimento 3, Urbino.

Recommended Dining

La Vecchia Fornarina: The oldest restaurant in Urbino serving traditional dishes from Le Marche region including fresh homemade pasta, cured meats and delicious desserts. Located on the Via Mazzini, 14. Phone: +39 0722/320007

Ristorante Il Cortegiano: Homemade pastas with truffles, Porcini mushrooms and excellent gnocchi. Located on Via Pucci Notti, 13. Phone: +39 0722/320307

Taverna degli Artisti: Their specialty here is fossa cheese and grilled local caciotta. Finish your meal with its excellent fresh desserts. Located on Via Bramante, 52. Phone: +39 0722/2676

Urbino will be one of the featured towns that will be included in the June '08 Classical Tour of Italy escorted by Peter D'Attoma. This itinerary will also feature Venice, Verona, Vicenza, Bologna, Ravenna, Ferrara, Florence, Volterra, Lucca, Cinqueterre and the Italian Riviera. For more information contact Peter D'Attoma at 330-633-2292 or email peter@davincicustomtravel.com.

Peter D'Attoma is president of DaVinci Custom Travel & Tours. He has over 25 years of planning and designing independent, custom and escorted tours of Italy for individuals, groups and incentive.