Descrizione
Piobbico, a charming fortified village in the province of Pesaro and Urbino, contains in its history and architecture the charm of past centuries. The two historic gates, the Porta di Ponente and the Porta di Levante, testify to the entrance to the town since the thirteenth century. Made of sandstone, they integrate harmoniously with the majestic castle walls. The Porta di Ponente, imposing and decorated with the coat of arms of the Brancaleoni, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley below. The Porta di Levante, adorned with Guelph battlements and the coat of arms of the Municipality of Piobbico, overlooks Piazza Brancaleoni, symbol of the beating heart of the historic center.
Recently restored and illuminated at night, both gates have become icons of the city, testifying to its history and identity. Through these gates, you enter the charming historic center of Piobbico, rich in history and tradition. The Porta di Ponente, also known as Felignino, connected the village to the Mercatale, the ancient site of the castle market. Now, the traces of artisan shops are lost among the Romanesque and Gothic arches of the palaces along the Via Mercatale. The road divides, leading to the Porta di Levante and the staircase of Palazzo Brancaleoni, through a path that evokes the ancient atmospheres of the past.
A distinctive element of the Porta di Levante is the allegory of the Nicolosa, a symbol of prudence and foresight. Originally, her bearded faces indicated the ability to evaluate past, present and future with attention and wisdom. Today, this representation evokes duplicity and falsehood, but in its original meaning lies the essence of a prudent man, capable of scrutinizing time with lucidity and wisdom. Passing through these gates means immersing yourself in a journey through time, between history, art and tradition, which makes Piobbico a unique and fascinating place to explore.
