Rampa Elicoidale di Francesco di Giorgio Martini

The Helicoidal Ramp of Urbino is an impressive architectural structure designed by Francesco di Giorgio Martini between 1476 and 1480. Built as part of the access system to the Ducal Palace, the ramp connected the square of Borgo Mercatale to the Ducal Stables (the "Data") and, through them, to the heart of the city. With its spiral shape, the ramp allowed for direct passage, especially for Duke Federico da Montefeltro, who could reach the stables without dismounting his horse.

In addition to its practical function, the ramp also had an important defensive purpose. The tower that housed it was part of the fortification system designed by the Duke to control access to Mercatale and protect the city. During the 19th century, the ramp was partially obscured by the construction of the Sanzio Theatre, but in the 1970s, thanks to a restoration by architect Giancarlo De Carlo, the structure was recovered and returned to the city, becoming an example of Renaissance engineering.