The Duke's Feast

In the picturesque setting of Urbino - a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982 - every year on the third Sunday in August the Festa del Duca is held, a re-enactment of the death of Duke Frederick. The city immerses itself in magnificent Renaissance atmospheres with costume parades attended by several hundred participants, re-enactments of ancient crafts, performances by archers and jesters. The streets of the splendid town welcome the market fair, artisans at work and court dances from the 15th century; there are also numerous inns offering typical local products for the occasion. Also of great impact are the clash between Montefeltro and Malatesta, the "Joust of the Eagles"-an archery competition-the blessing of the flags and the fireworks display that closes the festivities.