Gubbio: Guided tour to travel in the Medieval Past

Located in the suggestive Piazza dei Quaranta Martiri, meeting point of the guided tour of Gubbio, the Church of San Francesco is one of the most significant testimonies of the deep bond between the city and the Saint of Assisi. Built in the thirteenth century, the church stands on the site where, according to tradition, St. Francis met the famous wolf of Gubbio, protagonist of one of the most famous episodes of his life. Legend has it that the Poor Man managed to tame the ferocious animal, freeing the city from fear and restoring peace between the inhabitants and the wolf. Even today this place retains the charm of a history that interweaves faith, spirituality and tradition, representing a must-see stop for those who want to discover the historical and cultural heritage of Gubbio.

The center of gravity of Gubbio is Piazza Grande, one of the most suggestive medieval squares in Italy. From here you can enjoy a surprising view of the surrounding landscape. This space suspended between heaven and earth, framed by buildings that tell the story of the city, is the result of an extraordinary fourteenth-century urban work. Among the protagonists of the square stands Palazzo dei Consoli, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and symbol of power and culture of Gubbio, which with its majestic facade and monumental staircase transports the visitor to the times when the city was a flourishing medieval town. Piazza Grande is also the scene of the characteristic Festa dei Ceri, a centuries-old tradition to which the people of Gubbio are inextricably linked and which takes place every year on May 15.

The Cathedral of Saints Mariano and Giacomo, also known as the Cathedral of Gubbio, is the highest point reached while visiting the historic center and offers an experience that combines art, spirituality and breathtaking views. Before entering, the route crosses the ancient vegetable garden of the canons, a quiet corner from which there is a splendid view of the city rooftops and the Umbrian hills. The interior of the cathedral surprises with its intimate and suggestive atmosphere. The wide nave, with elegant Gothic shapes, is enveloped by soft light that is illuminated by the bright colors of the stained glass windows. The recent lighting enhances the ribs of the pointed arches, highlighting the refined architectural structure of the building and creating an environment of great charm. A visit that allows you to discover one of the most significant places in Gubbio, where history, art and faith have coexisted for over seven centuries.

In front of the Cathedral is the hanging garden of the Doge's Palace, where the Gubbio collection tour ends. This Renaissance palace, commissioned by Duke Federico da Montefeltro, housed the famous studio whose original inlays are now on display at the Metropolitan Museum in New York. The Hanging Gardens are the perfect place to end the guided tour with a look down on the Piazza Grande below and the enchanting panoramic background.