Gubbio city tour.
Tour by car.
The city of Gubbio is 75 km and 1 hour from Perugia by car.
When travelling in Italy, one never tires of noting how well-preserved its towns and villages are. But even amidst such mass authenticity, a true medieval masterpiece called Gubbio stands out. Despite the abundance of Renaissance buildings, the town looks stark because of its narrow streets and the predominance of dark grey stone in the buildings. But tens of thousands of tourists come here every year for a sense of mystery. And, by the way, the gloomy architecture affects the citizens in a strange way – they love to party and hold numerous festivals.
On May 15, a large-scale procession in honour of St Ubaldo takes place in the historic centre of the city, with participants carrying three wooden candles on their shoulders. The celebration has even earned Gubbio the nickname “the city of candles”.
A typical introduction to the city begins with the architectural ensemble in Piazza Grande. Here lies Palazzo dei
Consoli, a majestic Gothic palace, a symbol of the power and prosperity of 14th-century Gubbio. Since 1901, this grandiose 60-metre high dominant building has been home to the Museum of Local History. The main treasure of its exposition is the famous Iguvina Tables. These are 7 well-preserved copper plates in Latin and Umbrian languages.
Literally 40 metres from Palazzo dei Consoli is another palace-museum, Palazzo Ducale, next to which stand 6 gates of the city wall of XIII century. Some of them show coats of arms, old wooden gateposts and various images. In the neighbourhood is the main church of the city, the 13th-century Cathedral of Dei Santi Mariano e Giacomo.
The façade of the church, also known as the Duomo di Gabbio, is decorated with evangelical symbols (lion, eagle, bull and angel). Inside you can see a 13th-century wooden cross, 16th-century organs, frescoes and the floor of the same period.
Another important religious attraction is the Basilica of St Ubaldo. The temple is located at the top of Mount Ingino, which is reached by a cable car. It is here that the incorrupt relics of St Ubaldo, the heavenly patron saint of Gubbio, are kept.
We suggest a visit to the Church of St Francis and then a walk along the Camignano mountain stream, passing through medieval neighbourhoods to the Fountain of Madmen to Piazza Signoria. The 14th century Palace of the Consuls, with its magnificent fan-shaped staircase. The cathedral and the church of St Augustine. By funicular railway or by car you can climb to the top of Mount Ingino. You can also visit the Basilica of St Ubaldo, which is located at the top of the mountain.
It is also possible to organise an optional lunch in one of the panoramic restaurants.
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