Unveiling Urbino

After two spending two weeks in Bologna, it is time to share my newest adventures in Urbino. It has been a pleasant change of pace to be surrounded by college students, with astounding views of the mountains at every corner you turn. We have spent our first two days here exploring and found some awesome places inside this small city.

La casa di Rafaello

We were surprised to find that the late famous painter, Raphael was born in this very house close to the main square. It has been turned into a small museum, but was closed when we went to visit.

The best view of the Ducal Palace

Walking down one of the small alleys that are common in Urbino, we were shocked by the amazing view that seemed to come out of nowhere. Luckily we had a tour guide who tipped us off on the location or we may have never seen it!

The most popular Thursday night spot

We decided to ask which bars were the best bars on the weekends, and although the question was very subjective, we concluded that Pub Underground is a popular spot for students to hangout on the weekends. Unfortunately we went around 2pm so the bar was closed.

American Breakfast fast food stop

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The Canyon bar is one of the few American fast food places in town. It serves eggs in the morning, which we have found to be extremely rare in Italy.

Popular Clothing Brand

Throughout the trip we have seen an overwhelming amount of Napajiri coats. I asked a student what the brand was and he said it is like their version of The North Face. I tried to be sly while taking a picture of this random guy wearing one but it was pretty obvious and if you look closely he even tossed up a subtle peace sign.

The Most Popular American Stereotype

We found this to be the most difficult challenge. We stopped multiple students who said they didn’t speak English and one who said “I don’t know what to say”. Luckily we came across a woman who ended up being an intercultural perspectives professor. She told us that the most common stereotypes she hears from students is that Americans only eat fast food, are boisterous and arrogant, and believe that America is better than every other country.

Reflection

I enjoyed this challenge because we were forced to walk around all parts of the town and interact with students to figure out where places were located. While we were exploring the city we found some breathtaking views along with some breathtaking (literally) steep alleys and sidewalks. I was very interested in the American stereotype section. Although we were only able to receive an answer from one woman, the stereotypes she presented were understandable. I believe that understanding the stereotypes that are held against us is a great way to be conscious of how we behave and carry ourselves while in another country, and an opportunity to break the common stereotypes. I was certain that I wouldn’t like Urbino because it is on the side of the mountain, seemingly disconnected from society. I was in shock when I heard the nearest train station was an hour bus ride away. However, my previous conceptions of this town could not have been more wrong. I’ve only spent two days here but being surrounded by people my age, the livelihood of the community, and the beautiful architecture and views have already made this one of my favorite spots in Italy. There is a very authentic Italian feel because most people speak very little English, and there are few tourists. I am excited to continue exploring the city, and will miss the town when it is time to go home.