Defensive walls in Urbino, Medieval fortification in Urbino, Italy.
The defensive walls of Urbino encircle the old city center and are built from stone with several entrance gates and lookout points positioned at intervals. They form a continuous circuit that defines the boundaries of the historic core.
The walls developed over several centuries, with the most significant expansion occurring in the 15th century under Duke Federico da Montefeltro. This period established Urbino as one of the era's best-fortified cities.
The walls reflect how residents once saw their city as a place worth defending with stone and strategy. They show that people here valued both protection and connection to the wider Marche landscape.
Begin at Porta Valbona gate, which offers a clear starting point for walking the circuit around the walls and visiting each major entrance. Wear comfortable shoes and allow enough time to explore all sections without rushing through the experience.
The Fortezza Albornoz, a fortress integrated into the walls, offers views from its battlements across the rolling hills of the Marche region. This vantage point was once a strategic advantage and remains one of the city's best outlooks today.
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