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Federico da Montefeltro's Studiolo Reopens at Palazzo Ducale di Urbino

cultural-heritage · 2026-04-26

On May 30, 2025, the Studiolo of Federico da Montefeltro at the Palazzo Ducale di Urbino reopened its doors after a closure that began on November 4, 2024, for renovations. Director Luigi Gallo mentioned that this refurbishment is part of a broader project involving the palace's eastern and western wings, as well as the Duke's Apartment. Built in 1476, the Studiolo showcases intarsia, paintings, and wood carvings by Giuliano and Benedetto da Maiano, along with portraits by Justus of Ghent and Pedro Berruguete. Following the death of Francesco Maria II in 1631, the Duchy returned to the Church, leading to Cardinal Antonio Barberini acquiring the artworks. In 1861, Napoleon III bought 14 portraits for the Louvre, while others were obtained by the Italian state in 1934. The updated installation aims to address the absence of paintings and enhance the integration of architecture and lighting.

Key facts

  • Studiolo reopened May 30, 2025
  • Closed since November 4, 2024 for system upgrades
  • Part of progressive renovation of Palazzo Ducale di Urbino
  • Decoration completed in 1476
  • Intarsia by Giuliano and Benedetto da Maiano
  • Paintings by Justus of Ghent and Pedro Berruguete
  • 28 portraits of illustrious figures
  • 14 portraits now in Louvre, others in Galleria Nazionale delle Marche

Entities

Artists

  • Federico da Montefeltro
  • Giuliano da Maiano
  • Benedetto da Maiano
  • Justus of Ghent
  • Pedro Berruguete
  • Francesco Maria II della Rovere
  • Antonio Barberini
  • Urban VIII
  • Napoleon III
  • Dante Alighieri
  • Petrarch

Institutions

  • Palazzo Ducale di Urbino
  • Galleria Nazionale delle Marche
  • Musée Napoleon
  • Louvre

Locations

  • Urbino
  • Italy
  • Florence
  • Rome
  • France

Sources