Urbino  Cathedral

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 19 February 2022
Located next to the Piazza Duca Federico, Urbino Cathedral is one of the sights that earned Urbino its UNESCO World Heritage listing; its beautiful facade and dome matched by the interior. 

The building as we see it today was completed in 1801, the Neoclassical structure replacing the previous cathedral whose cupola was destroyed by an earthquake on 12 January 1789. 
In fact, this is the third cathedral to be built on the site with the original dating back to the eleventh century. ​
Related links
Urbino Cathedral, also known as Cattedrale di Urbino or simply Duomo di Urbino, is a beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral located in the town of Urbino, in the Marche region of central Italy. The cathedral is an outstanding example of Renaissance architecture and stands as a symbol of the town's rich history, religious significance, and cultural heritage.

With its elegant facade, stunning interiors, and historical importance, Urbino Cathedral is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the cultural treasures of the Marche region.

History: The history of Urbino Cathedral dates back to the 10th century when a religious building was first constructed on the site. Over the centuries, the cathedral underwent several reconstructions and renovations, incorporating elements of different architectural styles.

The current structure, displaying remarkable Renaissance features, was largely completed in the 16th century. Urbino Cathedral has since been an essential religious and cultural center for the town of Urbino.

Architectural Features: Urbino Cathedral is an architectural gem with notable features:

  • Facade: The cathedral's facade is an exquisite example of Renaissance architecture. It features a harmonious blend of classical elements, columns, and decorative sculptures.
  • Interior: Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire the grand nave, graceful arches, and stunning frescoes and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings.
  • Chapels and Altars: Urbino Cathedral houses several chapels and altars, each adorned with religious artworks, sculptures, and relics.
  • Ciborium: The main altar of the cathedral is crowned with a magnificent ciborium, an ornate canopy supported by columns.
  • Bell Tower: Adjacent to the cathedral stands a bell tower offering panoramic views of Urbino and the surrounding landscape.

Tourist Information: Visiting Urbino Cathedral offers a journey into the town's rich religious and artistic heritage:

  • Opening Hours: The cathedral is open to visitors daily, with limited hours during religious services and ceremonies.
  • Dress Code: Modest attire is required to enter the cathedral. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and revealing clothing are not permitted.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours of Urbino Cathedral are available, providing insights into its history, art, and architectural significance.
  • Accessibility: Urbino Cathedral is centrally located in the historic town center and easily reachable on foot.
  • Marche Cuisine: After visiting the cathedral, travelers can savor Marche cuisine at local restaurants in Urbino.
Location: Urbino

Province: Pesaro and Urbino

Region: Marche

Completed: 1801

Architectural style: Neoclassical
Opening times: 

07:30 - 13:00

14:00 - 20:00

Hours may differ on national holidays

​Free entrance
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Historic Centre of Urbino

​Year: 1998

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the three thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.