June 26, 2018 – Today was a day of exploration of Urbino architecture. Urbino is home to the Ducal Palace and many churches. Italian architecture dates back 3,000 years and has inspired structures all around the world. Arches, domes and painted ceilings are trademarks, a lot of which stem from Greek architecture. Most Urbino buildings are made of brick and concrete, when original built architects found these materials were stronger. The history of the city is evident with many structures and buildings showing deterioration.
Even though the city is made of brick and concrete locals find many ways to make it beautiful. Many windows are ground level and have metal frames around them. These bars are used for security but are also a form of decor. Without bars tend to have shutters to keep the sunlight out to help keep buildings cool as most building do not have central air. Many buildings have scattered holes around the outside called Putlog holes. These holes were used for poles or beams to support scaffolding during constructions. Public restrooms leave much to be desired and are few and far in between. If public restrooms are not around, going into a near by business is necessary but may cost you around 1 euro.
Santa Chiara is a renaissance style building that was the home of the Clarisse Nuns. It became a conservatory for widowed women and later had a hospital added, now the building is used for higher education is the Arts field.
