Urbino

It is impossible to catch the essence of Urbino in one photograph. Despite the remarkable homogoneity of building materials - pale brick, marble and clay roof tiles - there is such a contrast between the many intriguing winding alleyways such as this one, and the splendid formality of the squares. But even the splendour of the Cathedral and the Ducal Palace are faced by comfortable cafes and air-conditioned bars. And all this wonderful planning as a result of the guiding hand of Federico da Montefeltro, Duke of Urbino from 1444-82. His Ducal Palace is enormous, with room after room filled with an astounding collection of medieval art.

Urbino is a truly magical place, despite today's mind-warping heat.