#gubbio

I've always wanted to visit Urbino, the stronghold of the successful condottiere and art patron Duke Federico da Montefeltro since reading Geoffrey Trease's Horsemen on the Hills (1971) as a child. In Italy, his 'pink palace' (actually more of a light-coloured red brick) is famous:

But it's bloody difficult to get to on your own steam - flight to Bologna, two trains and a bus ride from Pesaro. So I booked a tour with like-minded individuals receptive to the opportunity for the explosion of art and architecture this would provide.

He was a focused and ruthless man, an illegitimate son, who made a name for himself as a condottiere, then gained the Dukedom after the death of his half-brother - there is some suspicion he may have been implicated. The famous nose shown in the painting by Piero della Francesca was not natural - he lost an eye in a jousting accident and then ordered surgeons to remove the bridge so he could see better in battle with the one remaining eye. This just shows what a single-minded man he was.

The palace at Urbino is stamped with his personality, via his personal emblems, as is the rather beautiful renaissance palace at Gubbio where he was born. The order of the garter, which he received from King Edward IV, is everywhere.

He was buried in the Church of San Bernardino, just outside Urbino, which was constructed in a similar style to the palace at Gubbio, according to his wishes.

Federico was a great patron of Piero della Francesca, but this altarpiece at the church was looted by Napoleon and ended up in Milan.

Other della Francesca works associated with Federico are no longer at Urbino, having made their way to the Uffizi and other places, but some remain, including the Flagellation of Christ, which is said to refelct (and perhaps atone for) the murder of his brother Oddantonio who is the Christ figure in the painting.

The Madonna di Senigallia is also a star attraction, but impossible to study too closely due to the volume of Italian schoolchildren surrounding it. The Christ child wears coral for its protective qualities.

There is also a rather wonderful portrait by Raphael, known as 'La Muta' because she looks like she wants to say something, but can't:

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The Mount Ingino Christmas Tree is a lighting illumination in the shape of a Christmas tree that is installed annually on the slopes of Mount Ingino (Monte Ingino in Italian) outside the city of Gubbio, in the Umbria region in Italy.

The tree is also called the Gubbio Christmas Tree or "the biggest Christmas tree in the world."

Gubbio

Acquerello 21x14

Gubbio, Umbria.

Orrendissima città medioevale un tempo capitale della regione. Brutta, brutta, bruttissima, non ci andate che quando mi ci trasferirò non vi voglio tra i piedi.

The Amalfi Coast: With its crystal clear waters, lush greenery and quaint villages, it's no wonder this region is so popular. Whether you're hiking along the trails, sunbathing on the beaches, or exploring the town of Amalfi, you'll be swept away by the beauty of this region.

Gubbio: Nestled in the heart of Umbria, Gubbio is a medieval town with a rich history and breathtaking views. From the top of Mount Ingino, you can see the valley for miles around and admire the beautiful landscape. This town is also famous for its Christmas celebrations.

Sirmione - This charming town is located on a hill overlooking Lake Garda, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. With its narrow streets, beautiful churches and well-preserved medieval architecture, Sirmione is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a taste of traditional Italian life.

Polignano a Mare - This seaside town is famous for its cliffside perch and picturesque port. Stroll along the promenade, enjoy a gelato at one of the local cafes, or just relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The city is also known for its lively nightlife.

Assisi - This city is famous for its beautiful basilica which is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. Assisi is also known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, which bears witness to its rich history.

Grotta della Poesia - This cave is located on the Puglia coast. With its crystal clear waters and amazing rock formations, it's easy to see why this cave is considered one of the wonders of Italy.

Credit :- @bestcitiesofeurope What is your favorite place?