Historic guide
Ducal Palace and Piazza del Popolo: Pesaro's historic centre
Updated 24 October 2026. Pesaro's historic centre opens onto Piazza del Popolo, with the Ducal Palace and the sixteenth-century fountain. This guide summarises the history of the places and how to fit them into a day on foot from Cortirola.
Piazza del Popolo and the Ducal Palace
The historic heart of Pesaro is Piazza del Popolo, with the Ducal Palace overlooking it. According to the entry on Wikipedia, the palace probably began as a Malatesta building; in the 15th century it was given its present form by Alessandro Sforza, and the Della Rovere, who held it until 1631, restored and enlarged it.
From the Della Rovere to the papal legates
After 1631 the palace housed the papal legates. The sources consulted, including Finestre sull'Arte (in Italian), mention among its notable features the courtyard, the Salone Metaurense and the secret garden. Today it is the seat of the Prefecture and is not fully open: check access arrangements before you go.
The fountain «la Pupilla»
In front of the palace stands the fountain of Piazza del Popolo, known as «la Pupilla», erected between 1588 and 1593 on the initiative of Francesco Maria II della Rovere. It is an easy stop to include in a walk through the centre.
Fitting the square into your day
The square is the natural starting point for a walking itinerary: from here you reach the Civic Museums and Rossini's birthplace. For a full route read Pesaro in 3 days.
Staying in the historic centre
Cortirola Luxury Apartment is at Via Cortirola 8, in the historic centre of Pesaro: from the apartment you can walk to the square. For train, car and airport directions read the how to get here guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pesaro's Ducal Palace?
It is the building overlooking Piazza del Popolo: probably begun by the Malatesta, it was enlarged in the 15th century by Alessandro Sforza and then reshaped by the Della Rovere, who held it until 1631.
Can you visit it?
One of the sources consulted says it is not fully open to the public: today it houses the Prefecture. Check the current access arrangements before going.
What is the fountain in Piazza del Popolo?
It is the fountain known as «la Pupilla», erected between 1588 and 1593 on the initiative of Francesco Maria II della Rovere.
How long do you need to see the square?
An hour is enough for the square, the palace and the fountain; with a visit to the Civic Museums and Casa Rossini it fills a morning.
Is it within walking distance of Cortirola?
Cortirola is at Via Cortirola 8, in the historic centre of Pesaro: the places of the historic centre are reachable on foot.
Read also: Cortirola Luxury Apartment · Pesaro in 3 days · Pesaro Civic Museums · Rossini Theatre