The Duke of Urbino was a title held by rulers of the Duchy of Urbino, a small but influential state in central Italy during the Renaissance. The most notable Duke was Federico da Montefeltro, who ruled from 1444 to 1482. He was known for his military prowess, patronage of the arts, and the construction of the Palazzo Ducale, which became a cultural center. The Duchy was significant for its contributions to art and culture, attracting artists like Piero della Francesca and Raphael. The Duke's court was a hub of intellectual activity, promoting humanism and the development of Renaissance ideals in Italy.