San Domenico, Gothic church in Renaissance Square, Urbino, Italy
San Domenico is a church with Gothic elements standing opposite the Ducal Palace at Piazza Danti. The facade displays a striking Renaissance portal in travertine stone featuring fluted columns and Corinthian capitals, while the interior was substantially reworked in the 18th century.
Construction of San Domenico began in 1362 under the Dominican Order, representing an early example of Gothic religious architecture in the Marche region. The church underwent several transformations over the centuries, most notably a major interior renovation in 1737 by architect Filippo Barigioni.
The portal displays a terracotta reproduction of 'Madonna with Child and Saints' by Luca della Robbia, while the original resides in the National Gallery of the Marches. This artwork appeals to visitors interested in how Renaissance art was reproduced and shared across different spaces.
The church sits on Piazza Danti opposite the Ducal Palace in central Urbino and is easily reached on foot. Visitors should note that worship times or special events may restrict entry, so it helps to check opening hours before visiting.
The interior reveals a fascinating blend of Gothic and Baroque stylistic features, with pointed arches and ribbed vaults preserved while walls were adorned with Baroque ornamentation. This unusual combination of both periods within a single space makes the church a notable example of stylistic layering in Italian religious architecture.
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