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Why Do Italian University Graduates Wear Laurel Wreaths?The Scholastic History Of Le Marche’s Floral Convocation Crown

URBINO, ITALY — A loud pop rings out from the center of the piazza, as pieces of colorful andshining confetti shower University of Urbino graduate Benedetta Bruzzesi. Indeed, there are no caps and gowns for graduates here. Instead, students wear Greek-styled laurel wreaths made of interconnected bay plant leaves and branches, which are often adorned with colorful ribbons and flowers. The tradition stretches back to ancient times — and isprevalent throughout Italy. For some students, the colors of their laurel wreaths’ ribbons or flowers denote their major or degree concentration. Red ribbons, for example, are worn by law students. Dark… Read More »Why Do Italian University Graduates Wear Laurel Wreaths?The Scholastic History Of Le Marche’s Floral Convocation Crown

The Last Leatherworkers of Le Marche: Preserving Slow Fashion In The Italian Countryside

 By: Samantha Cortes URBINO, ITALY — Hidden amongst a sea of leather handbags, patterned silk scarves and feathery dreamcatchers stands 65-year-old store owner Donato Colombo.  65-year-old Urbino store owner Donato Colombo opened his handmade leather goods store, Ars Nova di Colombo Donato, over 20 years ago. The artisan’s livelihood has been threatened by the global fast fashion industry. [Photo: Ava Roberts] Behind the counter, Colombo hammers away at a piece of Tuscan leather. The display of hanging crystal necklaces and delicate wire rings clank together as he creates the first indents on the soon-to-be pair of sandals.  “I’ve always wanted… Read More »The Last Leatherworkers of Le Marche: Preserving Slow Fashion In The Italian Countryside

Threads of the Past

by Marlee Ebert This documentary short examines the reconstruction of Renaissance clothing worn by the elite in the City of Urbino during the 13th and 14th centuries. Atelier di Batista association members Carolina Sacchetti (historian) and Roberta Fraternae (tailor) research paintings, texts, and rediscovered period items to design and recreate the historical clothing in order to preserve the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Sugar Cafe & Mindful Consumption

by Andrew Weinstock Dive into the heart of Italian ‘aperitivo’ culture with Urbino’s treasured Bar Sugarcafè. Giovanni Garbug shares his personal journey, his dedication to providing high-quality experiences, and his unique perspective on mindful consumption. Discover the essence of Italian tradition and the importance of cherishing life’s simple, yet exquisite pleasures.

Laureare : Graduation in Urbino

By Madi Rohm Graduation ceremonies in Europe are quite different from those in the U.S. Whereas we have a celebration separated day by day from major to school to class, the University of Urbino does something of a different sort. When each individual senior is done with their very last final, the graduates’ friends and family come together to celebrate them specifically.  The friends of said graduate will dress them up in a costume specific to the person, relating to their humor or overall persona. The costume is picked for the graduate as a bridesmaid takes care of some of… Read More »Laureare : Graduation in Urbino

Restoring the Piece

By Lexie Burns and Kassidy Hudson Within the city walls of Urbino lies Università degli Studi di Urbino Carlo Bo and its Scoula di Conservazione e Restauro (School of Conservation and Restoration). The heart of this program lies not only within the restoration of valued artworks, but within the passion of the students themselves. PhD candidate Veronica Tronconi offers insight into the realm of restoration and the great responsibility vested within the craft of preservation and restoration.