The Duke of Urbino was a title held by the 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 played a significant role in the politics of the time, often aligning with powerful families like the Medici and the Borgia. The Duke of Urbino was also a key figure in the development of Renaissance humanism, supporting artists such as Piero della Francesca and Raphael.