Ex Ospedale della Misericordia - Tribunale

The Ex Hospital of Santa Maria della Misericordia is characterized by a three-arched portico, supported by elegant columns with sandstone capitals.

The origins of the hospital date back to 1333, when the Brotherhood of Santa Maria della Misericordia was founded at Pian di Mercato (now Piazza della Repubblica), with the purpose of caring for abandoned newborns. In the 15th century, the hospital was moved to the Monte Hill and expanded with generous donations from noble families and the Duchy of Urbino. Its role was further strengthened through the merger with other city hospitals, promoted by Pope Eugene IV in 1438 and Pope Callixtus III in 1455.

In the 18th century, a new building for a women’s orphanage was planned by the Urbino architect Giuseppe Tosi, but financial difficulties prevented the completion of the project. During the 19th century, the building underwent several transformations: it first became a reformatory, and later a house of correction. Finally, with the relocation of hospital functions to the former Convent of Santa Chiara in the late 19th century, the complex was repurposed to house the Urbino Court, a role it still serves today.