What many of us forget about travel is our feet. Without the ability to move, travel would fail to exist. These places around the world we view most likely at a standstill. We are usually standing tall or with bad posture, viewing a place on foot. As a part of this travel site for 2010, posts of the week deemed “Where Are You Going?”, a place viewed on foot while traveling, will be featured, predictably every week. The goal of this segment is to expand the idea of travel, that no matter where your stinky, clean, pedicure, no pedicure, aching feet take you, places will always exist that have yet to be experienced by all. If you have a place that fits the above description, email whereareyougoing at suzyguese dot com to have your destination featured on this site.
At this very moment, I do not doubt there is at least one person viewing the town of Urbino in Italy from this vantage point. Urbino rests in Italy’s Marche region, seldom traversed by the guidebook crowd. The town faced numerous occupations throughout its history. The Etruscans, Celts, Gauls and the Romans all called the hilltop town home. Urbino fits the standard requirements for a perfect Italian village: old age, picturesque stone streets, and a church. The town even served as a renowned artist’s birthplace. Raphael was born in Urbino in 1483. With a famed university, a handful of museums and churches, Urbino has left nothing out for travelers.
Urbino does not have a train station taking you into the small village. Travelers can only go by car or bus, which could be why most people do not visit. The cities of Venice and Florence are much easier to reach, but Urbino brings a unique solace from this viewpoint just opposite the town.
In the dead of winter, the expansive green hill is windy and cold. However, you would never shiver once the unbelievable view of Urbino stares back at you. The snowcapped mountains behind the town yield a more perfect postcard image. The air is heavy. The view seems medieval with overgrown shrubbery surrounding the area. Looks over the shoulder may naturally come for fear some sort of medieval barbarians may be charging behind to take Urbino. It is easy to see why so many have conquered, lived, studied and visited Urbino. The view alone inspires, making Urbino my pick of where you should go this week.
I love this new feature on your blog. I am immediately transported to Urbino, where I want to stay. Can't wait for next week!
Wonderful journey to an often overlooked gem in Italy. Let's not forget the Duke of Urbino whose portrait along with his wife was made famous by Piero della Francesca. And what about his "right" eye never appearing in any portrait? These photos are stunning!!