Galleria Nazionale delle Marche
- Introduction
- The Building
- The Collection
- The Renaissance Masterpieces
- Medieval and Baroque Art
- The Majolica Collection
- The Artists of Urbino
- Temporary Exhibitions
- Educational Programs
- Accessibility
- Visitor Information
- Getting There
- Where to Eat
- Where to Stay
- Insider Tip
Introduction
Urbino, a small city in the Marche region of central Italy, is renowned for its rich artistic and cultural heritage, which is deeply intertwined with the presence of the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, one of Italy's most prestigious museums. The city's illustrious past as a flourishing Renaissance center and the birthplace of renowned artist Raphael contributed to the creation of this magnificent gallery. Located within the grandiose Palazzo Ducale, a former palace of the Montefeltro family, the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche showcases an extraordinary collection of masterpieces, offering visitors a breathtaking journey through the history of art.
The Building
The Palazzo Ducale, which houses the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, is an architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the power and grandeur of the Montefeltro dynasty. The palace was commissioned by Federico da Montefeltro, Duke of Urbino, and was built between 1465 and 1472 under the direction of the renowned architect Luciano Laurana.
The palace's design reflects the Renaissance ideals of harmony, symmetry, and proportionality. The exterior features an elegant façade adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, while the interior boasts a series of grand halls and rooms embellished with breathtaking frescoes and tapestries. The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche is located within the palace, occupying several rooms on the ground and first floors. Visitors can wander through the splendid halls and galleries, admiring not only the masterpieces of art but also the architectural beauty of the palace itself.
The Collection
The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche houses a vast and varied collection of artworks spanning from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period, with a particular focus on Renaissance painting.
The gallery's collection includes works by some of the most renowned Italian artists, such as Raphael, Piero della Francesca, Federico Barocci, and Melozzo da Forlì. Among the highlights of the collection are Raphael's "The Madonna of Senigallia," Piero della Francesca's "The Flagellation," and Barocci's "The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa."
These masterpieces, along with numerous other significant works, offer visitors a comprehensive overview of the development of Italian art from the 13th to the 17th centuries.
The Renaissance Masterpieces
Among the many treasures in the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, the Renaissance masterpieces stand out for their exquisite beauty and historical significance. One of the most celebrated works is "The Last Supper" by Paolo Uccello, a stunning fresco that captures the moment of betrayal with remarkable realism and emotional depth. The fresco's innovative use of perspective and illusionism makes it a masterpiece of early Renaissance art.
Another highlight is "The Flagellation of Christ" by Piero della Francesca, a poignant and powerful depiction of Christ's suffering. The painting is notable for its serene and harmonious composition and its exquisite attention to detail. The artist's mastery of light and shadow creates a deeply moving and contemplative atmosphere.
Federico Barocci's "Deposition from the Cross" is another must-see masterpiece. This monumental altarpiece showcases Barocci's signature style, characterized by vibrant colors, dynamic composition, and graceful figures. The painting captures the emotional intensity of the scene with great sensitivity and realism.
These are just a few of the many Renaissance masterpieces that await visitors to the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche. Each work tells a unique story and offers a glimpse into the artistic genius of the period.
Medieval and Baroque Art
Alongside the Renaissance masterpieces, the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche also houses a significant collection of medieval and baroque artworks. The medieval section stands out for its precious illuminated manuscripts, goldsmithing works, and wooden sculptures. Among the most notable pieces are the XIV-century "Corale di Santa Chiara" and the XV-century "Polittico di Sant'Antonio" by Paolo Veneziano.
The Baroque collection, although smaller, features some remarkable paintings and sculptures. Visitors can admire paintings by artists such as Simone Cantarini and Lazzaro Baldi, as well as sculptural works by Francesco Castelli. These artworks demonstrate the influence of the Counter-Reformation on artistic production in the region.
The Majolica Collection
The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche boasts a significant collection of maiolica ceramics, which represents one of the most important collections of its kind in the world. Maiolica is a type of pottery that originated in Islamic Spain in the 9th century and later spread to Italy, where it flourished during the Renaissance. Urbino was a major center for the production of maiolica, and the city's maiolica workshops were renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs.
The gallery's maiolica collection includes over 500 pieces, dating from the 14th to the 17th century. The collection is particularly strong in works from the 16th century, when Urbino's maiolica workshops were at their peak. Among the highlights of the collection are pieces by Francesco Xanto Avelli da Rovigo, one of the most famous maiolica artists of the Renaissance. Avelli's works are characterized by their intricate designs and vibrant colors, and they are considered to be among the finest examples of maiolica craftsmanship.
The Artists of Urbino
Urbino has been home to many talented artists throughout history, but two of the most notable are Federico Barocci and Raphael.
Federico Barocci was born in Urbino in 153He was a painter, sculptor, and printmaker who is considered one of the most important artists of the Mannerist period. His work is characterized by its emotional intensity, rich colors, and complex compositions. Some of his most famous works include the "Madonna del Popolo" (1579), the "Martyrdom of St. Sebastian" (1573), and the "Ecstasy of St. Teresa" (1583).
Raphael was born in Urbino in 148He was a painter and architect who is considered one of the greatest artists of the High Renaissance. His work is characterized by its grace, harmony, and beauty. Some of his most famous works include the "Madonna of the Goldfinch" (1506), the "School of Athens" (1510-11), and the "Sistine Madonna" (1513-14).
In addition to Barocci and Raphael, Urbino was also home to a number of other notable artists, including:
- Piero della Francesca (1416-1492): A painter known for his innovative use of perspective and realistic depiction of light.
- Giovanni Santi (1430-1494): A painter and poet who was Raphael's father.
- Francesco di Giorgio Martini (1439-1501): An architect, engineer, and painter who designed the Palazzo Ducale.
- Bramante (1444-1514): An architect who worked on the Vatican.
These artists, along with their works, have made Urbino a renowned center of Renaissance art.
Temporary Exhibitions
The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche regularly hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection. These showcase a wide range of art, from Renaissance to modern. Previous exhibitions have included the works of Raphael, Michelangelo, Caravaggio and more.
To find out about upcoming events, check the museum's website or social media pages. You can also sign up for their newsletter to receive updates on upcoming exhibitions and events.
Temporary exhibitions are a great way to see new and exciting works of art, and to learn more about different periods and styles of art. If you're visiting Urbino, be sure to check out what's on display at the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche.
Educational Programs
The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche offers a variety of educational programs to enhance visitors' understanding and appreciation of the artwork on display. Guided tours are available in various languages for a comprehensive exploration of the collection's highlights. These tours delve into the history, techniques, and symbolism behind the masterpieces, making them come alive for visitors.
In addition to guided tours, the gallery also organizes workshops for students and adults. These workshops provide a hands-on experience, allowing participants to create their own art inspired by the masters. Whether you're a budding artist or simply looking for a creative outlet, these workshops offer a unique and engaging way to connect with the art.
The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche is committed to making art accessible to everyone. With its educational programs, the gallery aims to inspire the next generation of art enthusiasts and foster a deeper appreciation for the beauty and significance of artistic expression.
Accessibility
The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche is committed to making its collections and exhibitions accessible to all visitors. The museum is equipped with a variety of features to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including:
- Wheelchair accessibility: The gallery is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing access to all floors.
- Audio guides: Audio guides are available in a variety of languages, including Italian, English, French, German, and Spanish. Visitors can borrow audio guides free of charge from the museum's information desk.
- Assistive listening devices: Assistive listening devices are available for visitors with hearing impairments. These devices can be used to amplify the sound of the audio guides or to listen to live presentations.
- Tactile tours: Tactile tours are available for visitors with visual impairments. These tours allow visitors to explore the gallery's collection of sculptures and other works of art using their sense of touch.
- Large-print labels: Large-print labels are available for visitors with low vision. These labels provide information about the gallery's collection in a larger, easier-to-read font.
- Service animals: Service animals are welcome in the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche.
Visitor Information
The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, with a lunch break from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. On Mondays, the gallery is closed.
Admission fees:
- Full price ticket: €10
- Reduced price ticket (students, seniors over 65, groups of 10 or more people): €8
- Free admission: children under 18, disabled visitors and their companions, and holders of the EU Youth Card and the Abbonamento Musei Lombardia card.
Contact information:
- Address: Palazzo Ducale, Piazza Duca Federico, 61029 Urbino PU, Italy
- Phone: +39 0722 377005
- Email: [email protected]
To avoid crowds, it is recommended to visit the gallery during weekdays or in the early morning.
Getting There
The Galleria Nazionale delle Marche is located in Urbino, a hilltop town in the Marche region of central Italy. To reach the gallery, you can either drive or take public transportation.
By car:
- From the A14 motorway, take the Urbino exit and follow the signs to the city center.
- Once in Urbino, follow the signs for the Palazzo Ducale, where the gallery is located.
By public transportation:
- Take a train to Pesaro, the nearest major city with a train station.
- From Pesaro, take a bus to Urbino.
- Once in Urbino, take a taxi or bus to the Palazzo Ducale.
The gallery is located in the heart of Urbino's historic center, so it is easily accessible on foot from most hotels and restaurants.
Where to Eat
After a day of exploring the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, you may want to sample some of the local cuisine. Urbino offers a variety of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. For a traditional Italian meal, try one of the trattorias or osterias in the historic center. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as passatelli in brodo (a type of pasta served in a meat broth), or tagliatelle al tartufo (pasta with truffles).
If you are looking for something a little more upscale, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants in Urbino. These restaurants offer a more refined dining experience, with creative and innovative dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
No matter what your budget or taste, you are sure to find something to your liking in Urbino. Here are a few specific recommendations:
- Osteria del Gambero Rosso: This is a traditional trattoria that has been serving delicious Italian food for over 50 years. The menu features classic dishes such as pasta cacio e pepe and osso buco.
- Ristorante Il Girarrosto: This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its creative and innovative dishes. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always expect to find something delicious, such as roasted suckling pig or sea urchin risotto.
- Trattoria La Taverna: This is a cozy trattoria that serves up hearty, traditional Italian fare. The menu features dishes such as pasta alla norcina (a type of pasta with sausage and black truffles) and grilled meats.
Where to Stay
Piazza del Rinascimento and Piazza Duca Federico are dotted with hotels, offering a range of options for every budget and taste. From charming B&Bs nestled within the medieval alleys to modern, amenity-rich hotels, there's something for everyone.
For an unforgettable stay, consider splurging on a room at the opulent Hotel Raphael, housed in a 15th-century palace. Here, you'll experience unparalleled luxury amidst Renaissance grandeur, with frescoed ceilings, marble floors, and plush furnishings.
Alternatively, for a more budget-friendly option, check out the Hotel San Domenico, located just a stone's throw from the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche. This cozy, family-run hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, along with a continental breakfast.
No matter where you choose to stay, you'll be within easy walking distance of the gallery and Urbino's other attractions. Embrace the opportunity to get lost in the city's enchanting streets, stumble upon hidden gems, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere that has made Urbino a beloved destination for centuries.
Insider Tip
To make the most of your visit to the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, plan to spend at least two hours exploring the collection. The gallery is busiest during the summer months, so if you're looking for a quieter experience, aim to visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall). To avoid lines, consider purchasing tickets online in advance.
For an unforgettable experience, time your visit to coincide with one of the gallery's many cultural events, such as concerts, lectures, or workshops. Check the gallery's website for a calendar of upcoming events.
As you stroll through the galleries, don't hesitate to ask the friendly and knowledgeable staff for assistance or recommendations. They can help you tailor your visit to your specific interests and ensure that you don't miss any hidden gems.
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a beautiful and inspiring place to spend an afternoon, the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche is sure to leave a lasting impression.
