Urbania, Medieval commune in Pesaro and Urbino Province, Italy
Urbania is a small commune in Pesaro and Urbino Province in the Marche region, sitting on a hill near the Metauro River. The town centers around its Ducal Palace, medieval churches, and traditional stone buildings arranged along narrow streets.
Originally called Casteldurante, the town was renamed Urbania in 1636 to honor Pope Urban VIII when it became part of the Papal States. This change reflected efforts by the Church to consolidate its control over central Italian territories.
The Ducal Palace displays rare globes by cartographer Gerardus Mercator alongside regional artworks that reveal the town's importance during the Renaissance. The collection shows how much learning and artistic networks were drawn to this place.
Visitors can see the Chiesa dei Morti, where naturally preserved human remains from the Middle Ages and Renaissance are displayed. The church sits in the town center and is easily reached on foot, though the visit requires respectful behavior.
During World War II, the town earned a Bronze Medal for Military Valor because of its residents' resistance activities. This honor is documented on a monument in the town and recalls the community's role during the occupation.
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