Chiesa dei Morti

When we were planning to go north of Ancona we had so much to choose from that we were wondering where to go first.
The idea of getting to Urbania (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urbania) got the upper hand because of the joint effect of this place being the “town of la Befana” (the Italian version of a benevolent witch that brings gifts on January 6th http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Befana) and in the same time housing the so-called “Chiesa dei Morti” with a relevant collection of mummies. Yes mummies…
When we got there I must say we found a real hidden jewel: the castle is one of the best architectural structures we have ever seen and the art collections in it are breathtaking.

Urbania

On the way there we arrived fist in Peglio. This is a little village very close to has been suggested to us by friends and it was worthy the stop to look at the view. Fantastic and moving and I hope our photos can give an idea of the pure beauty it.

Peglio

Then to Urbania. The Chiesa dei Morti si closed, surprise surprise, so we go to eat. We chose the Locanda Valpietro(http://valpietro.altervista.org/). Extremely nice food, with a fantastic antipasto mix of 10 dishes. Well done.
Finally the guided tour of the mummies is available. We will not be posting pictures of this but the story is very interesting but not for the faint hearted. The exhibition is meant as a remainder of the inevitable destiny of all humans and each single of them has its own story that the guide explains in detail. Very interesting and unusual.
From the Chiesa de Morti we go for the brief walk to the Palazzo Ducale, passing by the Tower in the square that really has a wonderful ancient atmosphere.

Urbania

The Palazzo Ducale is a fantastic example of a castle and noble court mixed together. It also hosts various art collections and when we visited (July 2014) also a brilliant exhibition of various art works around the Bramante experience.There is also the original of an “aquaforte” representing the triumph of Charles V in Bologna that by itself it’s worth the visit. The view as well is stunning and the general feeling is one of history living again.
A real gem!