Opening hours in padua attractions. The best attractions of Padua with photos and descriptions. Basilica of St. Anthony
Padua is a unique city. Being in close proximity to the world famous Venice and Verona, Padua has its own personality and architectural style.
In small Padua you will find so many attractions that one day will not be enough for a simple cursory examination. The University of Padua alone is worth something, and Botanical Garden, basilicas and churches?
There are no such tourist crowds as in Verona and Venice, so you are guaranteed to enjoy exploring the city. Accommodation in Padua is much more affordable than its famous noisy neighbors, and you can get to them in a maximum of an hour.
Architecture of Padua
How to get to Padua
It is not possible to fly directly to Padua; the city does not have its own airport. The nearest airports are located in Venice, Treviso and Verona.
From Russia, most flights arrive in international Airport Marco Polo(Venice). Treviso Airport serves, as a rule, low-cost airlines and small airlines. Airline planes fly to Verona from the capital of Russia S7.
Let's consider several options for how to get to Padua. It’s convenient to search on the Aviasales website, it will help you choose convenient and affordable connections.
You can fly directly from Moscow to Venice Aeroflot or Alitalia, you can take a difficult route through Riga, Chisinau, Istanbul, Berlin and other cities. A ticket for a complex route is often cheaper than a direct flight. Aeroflot sells tickets for direct flights to Venice at a price from 13 thousand rubles. Alitalia may request from 17 thousand. Difficult routes will cost you from 8 thousand. How much does a trip through Riga cost ( Aeroflot And AirBaltic), on the way you will spend about 6 hours.
To Padua from Venice
Directly
From Venice Marco Polo Airport to Padua it is better to take a company bus FS Busitalia-Veneto. Website: fsbusitaliaveneto.it. Here is a page with a link to the bus schedule. Travel time - 1 hour. Tickets cost 7-8 euros.
The stop is right at the exit from the arrivals hall. Look carefully at the racks indicating the car company, it should be written Busitalia, look for a sign on the windshield of the bus Padova.
The airport is connected to many settlements region of Veneto and works with different companies. You can buy a ticket in the airport building and from the driver.
With a transfer in Venice
Another option: get to Venice or Venice-Mestre by bus (shuttle or regular). From Venice to Padua you can travel by bus or train.
From the station Venice-Santa Lucia on almost any train you will reach your destination in 25-50 minutes. Time and price depend on the class of train: the train takes longer, but costs 4.25 euros, trains Frecciarossa And Frecciargento they'll get you home in half an hour and 14.90-16.90 euros. There is a train from Mestre 3.45 euros, on my way 35-40 minutes, high-class trains arrive in Padua 15 minutes after departure, but cost 18 euros. Information about schedules and ticket prices on the website: trenitalia.com.
Train company Italotreno they go every hour or two, they reach the Padua station in 14 minutes, the ticket costs 9.90 euros. Website: italotreno.it.
Buses from Venice leave from Piazzale Roma, from Venice Mestre from the square next to the train station. You can get to Padua by buses from the following companies:
- ACTV S.p.a(website: actv.avmspa.it)
- Busitalia(website: fsbusitaliaveneto.it)
- Baltour(website: baltour.it)
- FlixBus(website: flixbus.it)
You will spend from 45 minutes to a little over an hour on the road. Schedules and prices can be found on the websites. Ticket prices are within 10 euros.
To Padua from Treviso Airport
Small airlines and low-cost airlines fly to Treviso, but our tourists often fly to Italy through this airport.
The company buses run from Treviso airport to Padua twice an hour Busitalia And Mobilità di Marca(website: mobilitadimarca.it). Travel time is within an hour. The exact cost of tickets can be found on the websites. On average, it does not exceed 7-8 euros.
You can get from the airport to central station Treviso (it's very close), from there take a train to Venice-Mestre and change trains to Padua. The transfer lasts from 10 to 20 minutes. Travel time, including transfers, is from an hour to an hour and a half, ticket price is from 5 to 21.45 euros(depending on the train class).
To Padua from Verona
This option is a little more complicated. There are no buses to Padua from Verona Airport. You'll have to get to the bus station. From it and nearby railway station You can get to Padua by both bus and train.
Buses FlixBus go to Padua every morning, afternoon and evening, on the way they are from 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, the ticket costs from 5 to 13.90 euros. You can use the services Busitalia: travel time - 1:30- 2:10 h., price - approx. 8 euros.
The train will reach Padua in an hour and a half, the trip will cost you 7.30 euros, trains Frecciarossa will take you for 42 minutes, the ticket will cost from 13 to 19.90 euros.
What to see in Padua in 1 day
Here you can't look at it, you can't reconsider it. I will tell you about the most important attractions that you cannot pass by.
Like many cities in Italy, Padua has a tourist Padova card. Buy this card and you can visit many Padua museums and use public transport for free or at a discount.
Two types of map: for 48 hours costs 16 euros, for 72 hours - 21 euros. Information about the map on the website: turismopadova.it.
Map of Padua with landmarks
Fetching directions......
First of all, study the city map. Our route will begin at the square in front of the railway station.
Exit the station building, turn right and go straight to the wide street running perpendicular to your path. Turn right and walk straight along this street until (this will take about 10-15 minutes) you see a medieval wall ahead. A river flows under the wall, and a bridge leads through it to the gate. This Gate of the Mill Bridge (Porta Ponte Molino). The wall is real, historical, XIV century.
It is from here that your acquaintance with the beauties of ancient Padua will begin.
From the gate deep into the city it goes Via Dante Aligheri. Follow it straight until you reach Piazza Duomo. To your right will rise the Padua Duomo and next to it the Baptistery.
Local guide
Duomo - Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
Refers to minor basilicas. The current building is the third one built on this site. The first cathedral stood here from 313 to 1117, until an earthquake destroyed it. Just over 60 years later, the new Duomo building in the Romanesque style was consecrated. And from the beginning of the 16th century, work began on the design of the cathedral building, which stands on the square today. The cathedral was consecrated only in the 18th century.
According to legend, Michelangelo himself took part in the work on the project.
The floor and walls of the Duomo preserve the remains of their predecessors: mosaic details of the floor of the first cathedral, columns from the second. The most interesting details are located in the chapels. Paintings and sculptures by Paduan and French masters, a shrine with the relics of St. Gregorio Barbarigo, a copy of the 13th-century Byzantine icon “The Virgin and Child” - these treasures fill the Padua Duomo with an atmosphere of holiness and tranquility.
The cathedral is open to the public every day - from 7:30 to 12:00 And from 15:45 to 19:30.
On weekends and holidays - from 7:45 to 13:00 And from 15:45 to 20:30.
Free admission.
Baptistery of San Giovanni Battista
Stands to the left of the Duomo. The building was built in the 12th century, so we can safely say that the baptistery is older than the cathedral itself, given the history of the construction of the Duomo. The Baptistery looks a little more remarkable in appearance than the Cathedral: a round tower decorated with blind arches, which stands on a cubic base.
The interior of the baptistery is completely painted with frescoes. Artist Giusto di Manabuoi painted the dome and walls of the baptistery with paintings on themes from the Old and New Testaments, imagined Heaven and Hell, described the Passion of Christ and the Last Judgment. From the very first second, the creations of the 14th century master will immerse you in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages, transporting you to a world that you will never visit in reality.
The Baptistery is open from 10:00 to 18:00.
Entrance - 3 euros.
Photography is not allowed inside the baptistery.
After leaving the Duomo and Baptistery, go back along Via Dante Alighieri literally a couple of blocks away. To your left will rise Torre dell'Orologio (Clock tower) - built in the 14th century with the first astronomical clock for that time. On the right will lie Piazza dei Signori- Signor Square.
Piazza dei Signori is the most important square of Padua, its “heart”.
Clock tower
This is the center of a large complex, or rather two palaces adjacent to the tower. Left - Palazzo del Capitanio (Palace of Capitani). Capitanio is a representative of the Venetian Republic, to which Padua has been subordinate since the 15th century. On right - Palazzo dei Camerlenghi (Camerlengo Palace). Camerlengo (or camerari) in the Venetian Republic were the magistrates who controlled the financial and economic life of the state.
There is an arch in the center of the tower; it was built by the architect in 1532 Giovanni Maria Falconetto.
The zodiac signs on the dial are not represented in in full force: no Libra. According to legend, the customer did not fully pay the master’s fee, and he “stole” one sign.
Standing with your back to the arch, you will see the Signor Square in all its glory. To develop the square, an entire block was demolished. In the 15th century there was a market here, street celebrations were held, bullfights were held, and performances were given. Today there are several cafes on the square.
To the right rises a white stone building - La Loggia del Consiglio o Gran Guardia (Council Loggia). The City Council met here, but after the fire it lost its meeting place. Architect Annibale Maggi created a light and openwork marble miracle with arches and stairs. Free access There is no Loggia in the halls. They are intended for meetings and cultural events.
Opposite the Clock Tower, at the opposite end of the square, rises the façade St. Clement's Church, one of the oldest churches in Padua. It was built in 1190; in the 16th century the façade was rebuilt and statues were added. Paintings are stored inside Luca Ferrari and Pietro Damini.
Palazzo della Ragione
Cross the Piazza della Signori and go around the Church of St. Clement on the right. After a few meters you will come to a grandiose building Palazzo della Ragione (Palace of the Mind). Grand Palace It seems lacy due to the large number of columns and arches. From above it resembles a ship turned upside down. The building was erected in the 12th century; courts and magistrates were located here. Until the beginning of the 15th century, the city council met on the top floor, in a huge hall called the Salon. The hall was decorated big amount frescoes, some of them, according to legend, painted Giotto. Today in the hall you can see frescoes restored after the fire, a wooden statue of a horse, a “stone of shame” on which debtors were punished, four grand staircases: the Staircase of Birds, the Staircase of Metal Products, the Staircase of Fruits and the Staircase of Wine.
The palace is open to the public every day except Monday - from 9:00 to 19:00.
Entrance - 6 euros.
This palace stands between two ancient squares - Piazza dell'Erbe (Square of Herbs) And Piazza della Frutta (Fruit Square). From ancient times to the present day, these squares have been market squares. True, today the market mainly remains on Fruit Square. Both squares are interesting. On each one you will find a lot of details from past centuries: a column, a fountain, a stone with weights carved on it.
You can go from one square to another through Volto della Corda (Rope Arch) - covered passage in the building Palazzo Ragione. This place is called so because in ancient times debtors and swindlers were punished here with scourging and flogging.
Go to Fruit Square, go left along the street Via Guglielmo Oberdan. After a few tens of meters you will find yourself at an intersection. To your right will be the city hall building - Palazzo Comunale o Moroni (City Palace or Moroni Palace), on the left is a beautiful building with many neo-Gothic spires. This is an old Paduan cafe Pedrocchi.
Cafe Pedrocchi
It exists since 1831, is popularly called “a cafe without doors”, because until 1916 it worked for days on end.
Today Pedrocchi not only a cafe, but also one of the most important Paduan attractions, not inferior, for example, to the Neapolitan Gambrinus. Its prices are not too affordable, but not exorbitant either.
Opening hours: daily from 8:00 to 24:00, on Friday and Saturday - until 01:00.
Palazzo Bo
The cafe will be on your left, and the walls will rise directly in front of you Palazzo Bo- the main building of the University of Padua.
The University of Padua is one of the oldest in Italy, and even in Europe. It was opened in 1222.
The university is located in Palazzo Bo in 1492. The name "Bo" is translated from the Venetian dialect as "bull". Once upon a time there was a meat restaurant in the palace building. The restaurant itself is long gone, but in memory of it, the name and emblem - a bull's skull - remain in the university residence.
The palace was rebuilt often and for a long time, the building annexed neighboring houses. In the central courtyard you will see great amount coats of arms on the walls and ceiling: according to tradition, every student and teacher who left the university left his own coat of arms. This tradition was interrupted in the 18th century due to the impossibility of accommodating the coats of arms of everyone.
The first anatomical theater in Europe was opened in this building; the department from which Galileo lectured was preserved here.
In general, there is something to see in Palazzo Bo; guided tours are held there.
Winter schedule (November - February):
- Monday - 14:30 - 15:30;
- Tuesday - 10:30 - 11:30;
- Wednesday - 14:30 - 15:30;
- Thursday - 10:30 - 11:30;
- Friday - 14:30 - 15:30;
- Saturday - 10:30 - 11:30 - 12:30.
Summer schedule (March - October):
- Monday - 14:30 - 15:30 - 16:30;
- Tuesday - 9:30 - 10:30 - 11:30;
- Wednesday - 14:30 - 15:30 - 16:30;
- Thursday - 9:30 - 10:30 - 11:30 - 14:30 - 15:30 - 16:30;
- Friday - 14:30 - 15:30 - 16:30;
- Saturday - 9:30 - 10:30 - 11:30 - 12:30.
Prices:
individual ticket - 7 euros, in a group from 10 to 35 people - 4 euros.
Palazzo Bo page on the university website: unipd.it.
Once you pass Palazzo Bo on the right, follow Via San Francesco. This is a fairly long street with covered sidewalks - pedestrian paths are laid under the second floors of buildings and separated from the roadway by arches and columns. Frescoes can often be found on the vaults.
The street passes through a small Antenor Square. In the middle of it stands an ancient and rather strange stone structure. This Antenor's tomb, the mythical founder of Padua, the legendary surviving Trojan. Read more about it in the section below. "The History of Padua".
In 1274, the remains of an armed man were discovered at this place, and gold coins were found nearby. The Paduan poet Lovato Lovati immediately decided that these were the ashes of Antenor, convinced himself and everyone of this so much that a stone tombstone was erected in the square, which has survived to this day.
Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua
Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua is one of the largest and most popular cathedrals in northern Italy
When, after about 10 minutes of walking, the line of houses breaks and a large space opens on your right, turn right. Having walked forward about 300 meters, you will find yourself in front of a grandiose cathedral - Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua. The cathedral does not have a single style: there is Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine. But all the elements merge in absolute harmony. The Paduans simply call this place “holy”. This is both about Anthony himself and about the cathedral.
Construction of the temple began in 1232, literally a year after the death of St. Anthony, over the chapel in which he was buried. The result was a huge cathedral-monument to the people's favorite. The best artists and sculptors worked on the decorations of the interior of the temple: Donatello, Titian, Giotto and many others.
In addition to its beautiful decoration, the basilica is famous for housing the reliquary with the incorruptible larynx and tongue of St. Anthony.
The cathedral has a Museum of St. Anthony, several courtyards and an extensive library. It must be said that the huge and beautiful temple looks like a whole complex dedicated to one person: many transitions and turns are equipped with signs, and on each of them there is S. Antonio.
St. Anthony's Basilica is open daily - from 6:30 to 19:30 in summer and until 18:30 in winter.
Free admission.
Coming from the square in front of the basilica Via Beato Luca Belludi literally in 4-5 minutes it will take you to Prato-della-Valle.
Prato-della-Valle - business card Padua. This is an ideal place for meetings, walks, and secluded relaxation.
Prato-della-Valle - This is the largest square in Italy and the most original in its architectural design.
In Roman times, there was a theater and the Champ de Mars here; in the Middle Ages, horse races were held and fairs were held. Then this place turned out to be swampy. In 1775 the architect Domenico Cerato created what became one of the symbols of Padua and its calling card.
Oval in plan, Prato della Valle consists of big canal in the shape of an ellipse with bridges across it. The banks of the canal are decorated with a double row of statues that depict famous Paduans. These statues were created from 1775 to 1838. Among them are images of Petrarch, Galileo, Tasso and others. Around the square are the Basilica of St. Giustina, Palazzo Angeli and Loggia Amulea.
Padua Botanical Garden
Returning by Via Beato Luca Belludi, turn left along Via Donatello. Along it you will very soon arrive at Orto Botanico di Padova(Paduana Botanical Garden).
The garden is considered the oldest operating botanical garden in the world.
It was founded in 1545. It was originally intended to grow medicinal herbs for the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Padua.
The territory of the garden is clearly structured: geometrically, it reproduces the “order of the Universe” - one circle is inscribed in another, both are divided into four parts, each of which consists of four sectors. At the center of this plan is a fountain.
More than 6 thousand species of plants grow in the Botanical Garden. Among them there are famous trees - for example, Goethe's palm, sitting under which the poet and naturalist pondered the theory of plant metamorphosis.
The garden is open to the public:
- in May, April - daily from 9:00 to 19:00 ,
- from June to September - from 9:00 to 19:00(closed on Mondays),
- in October - until 18:00(every day except Monday),
- from November to March - until 17:00(daily except Monday).
The ticket costs 10 euros.
Capella degli Scrovegni
On the way back, make a small detour: from the intersection near the university and the Pedrocchi cafe, go straight along Via Cavour, which will then flow into Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi. The path will take 5-7 minutes walk. On your right hand you will see Hermit Gardens, and in them there is a rather ordinary old building made of red brick with a gable roof. This Capella degli Scrovegni(Scrovegni Chapel).
The chapel was built by order of Enrico Scrovegni in memory of his father, a rich man and so devoid of prejudices that he was mentioned Dante in one of the Songs of "Hell" from "Divine Comedy".
From 1303 to 1305, Giotto painted the walls of the chapel and created frescoes of colossal depth of thought and execution on the themes of the life of Christ and the Last Judgment.
The chapel is open daily - from 9:00 to 19:00.
Possibility of evening visits from 19:00 to 22:00, but they must be ordered.
The ticket costs 13 euros.
Museums
Among other attractions of Padua that can be included in a one-day itinerary, I would name Palazzo Zuckermann With Museum of Applied Arts And Botacin Museum(the exhibition includes weapons, numismatics, painting and sculpture of the 19th century). This palace is located opposite the Scrovegni Chapel.
Open daily - from 10:00 to 19:00(except Monday).
Ticket - 10 euros.
Very interesting Museo del Risorgimento.
Risorgimento is a term meaning the historical process of the reunification of Italy into a single state.
The Padua Museum presents the history of Padua in the 19th century from Austrian rule to the city’s entry into a unified Italy.
The museum is located very close to the Pedrocchi cafe at: Piazzetta Capellato Pedrocchi.
Open daily - from 9:30 to 12:30 and with 15:30 to 18:00(except Monday).
Ticket - 4 euros.
old lock
Castelvecchio has risen above the old city walls since the 13th century. True, from the entire castle, only the Loggia, where the Galilean Academy is located, part of the wall of the Security Loggia and the Specola Tower, which houses the observatory and its museum, have survived. The easiest way to get to the tower is from the Duomo along Via S. Gregorio Barbarigo.
Museum address: Vicolo dell'Osservatorio, 5.
Working hours: daily from 9:00 to 17:00 except Monday.
Group visits by appointment. Individual excursions conducted without registration at 16:00 from October to April and at 18:00 from May to September.
Ticket - 7 euros.
Paduan cuisine
Paduan cuisine is “courtyard and garden cuisine,” that is, “what we grow is what we eat.”
There are a lot of vegetables in the dishes. Poultry dishes are very popular. For example, it's worth trying bollito misto alla padovana- cutting from a wide variety of boiled meats. A typical Paduan dish can be called bigoli pasta with goose sauce L'Oca in Onto. This sauce is often served as a separate dish.
Padua's cafes and restaurants offer a variety of local sweets. The rice cake deserves special attention Figassa.
Places where you can have a snack or a hearty meal in the historical center will come across you at almost every step. But remember the main rule: you need to eat where the locals eat. That is, get off the tourist path and turn the corner more often - there will be better cuisine and lower prices.
Where to stay in Padua
Padua, unlike Venice, can please you with affordable housing prices.
Often, when looking for inexpensive housing on various resources, you can find Padua as an option for budget accommodation. But housing in the center is still expensive. A night in a hotel located in the center can cost around three thousand rubles. Guest House Appartamento Savonarola offers a single room at a price 1878 rubles. Hotel Arcella located behind the station, they ask for a single room from 2404 rubles. However, Padua is a small city, so don’t worry if you are offered affordable accommodation not in the Old Town. You will get there quickly.
To find a place to stay that is convenient in all respects, use the following sites: airbnb.ru- apartments and rooms in apartments, booking.com- hotels, hostels, guest houses, apartments.
Discount table
History of Padua
Archaeologists claim that the places where Padua stands were inhabited at the beginning of the 1st millennium BC. It is impossible to name the exact time of the founding of the city. Legend connects him with Antenor, a Trojan prince who escaped after the fall of Troy. According to Virgilius, Antenor arrived here and founded the city of Patavium. From the 2nd century. BC. Patavium became a Roman municipality, becoming an important transport and trade center.
During the Middle Ages, Padua was destroyed several times and rebuilt. She often changed owners. Among the tyrants who ruled it were the families Rock And Carrara.
In 1405, Padua was conquered by the Venetian Republic, and until the fall of the latter in 1797, the city was under Venetian rule. Then came the period of Austrian rule, which ended in 1866, when Padua became part of the unified Italian state.
Padua is a small Italian town, a real treasure trove of architectural masterpieces, surrounded by magnificent nature. People have settled here since the 10th century BC. e. In the era of Ancient Rome, the area was inhabited by the Veneti tribes, from whom the name of the entire region of Italy came.
In Padua there will be plenty to keep enthusiastic lovers of Renaissance art busy. The entire Scrovegni Chapel is painted with frescoes by the brilliant and talented Giotto, the amazing architecture of the old buildings of the University of Padua is a classic example of the style of construction in the early Renaissance style.
Padua will also be interesting for active tourists. Almost 70 km. bicycle and walking routes located within the picturesque Euganean Hills park.
The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.
from 500 rubles/day
What to see and where to go in Padua?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.
The palace was built in the XII-XIII centuries. The ceiling frescoes for it were created by Giotto di Bonde. Unfortunately, these unique paintings were destroyed during a roof collapse in the 18th century. Some images remained on the walls. The facade of the palazzo is surrounded by long arched galleries, which today house restaurants and shops. Inside the palace is the Stone of Dishonor, on which debtors repented during the Middle Ages.
The area is considered the largest in Italy, it occupies a space of 90 thousand m². In 1636, a theater building was erected here to host impromptu fights and horse races. At the end of the 18th century, a decision was made to transform this territory and turn it into recreational area for the residents of Padua. By that time, the city had already grown quite large; palaces and city mansions stood around the future square.
The piazza is located in the historical center of Padua. Until the 14th century, there was an entire residential block in its place. In the Middle Ages, musical performances and theatrical performances were often held here to entertain the townspeople. On the square there is a picturesque Captain's Palace with a high clock tower of the 16th century. The elegant astronomical dial shows the date and time. It is believed that the tower clock is one of the very first chronometers in Italy.
The educational institution was first mentioned in documents of the 13th century. Active development began in the 15th century, when several new buildings were built. With the advent of the Renaissance, the university became an important center of secular science. Astronomy, medicine, and law were taught here. Galileo himself lectured at the university. In 1556, a new building was built for the educational institution - Palazzo del Bo, which became a classic monument of Renaissance architecture.
The Zuckermann Palace houses the city museum of applied arts. Here you can see collections of ancient jewelry, weapons, stone and metal products, 18th-century furniture, ceramics and medieval clothing. The exhibition does not tell about any specific historical era; you can even notice that the objects are located somewhat chaotically. The building itself is a small three-story mansion.
The basilica was erected on the burial site of the Christian martyr Justina of Padua. Since the 6th century there has been a church on this site. The modern temple appeared in the 16th century. The building is built in the form of a cross, 122 meters long and 82 meters wide. Inside are the burial places of several Christian saints; Justina's grave is located above the main altar, which was painted by the master P. Veronese. Also on the territory of the basilica are the relics of St. Luke.
One of the largest churches in Padua, built in the 13th century. Construction began 19 years after the death of St. Anthony of Padua. Initially, a chapel of the dark Madonna was erected over the saint’s grave; after the construction of the basilica, it ended up inside the temple. In the square in front of the entrance there is a statue of Gattamelata (one of the rulers of Padua) by Giotto. A large number of pilgrims visit the church every year.
The Cathedral is the third temple built in the center of Padua. The first church of the 6th century stood until 1117. The second building dates back to the first half of the 16th century. The construction of the third cathedral was carried out according to the plan of Michelangelo Buanarotti and lasted about 200 years. Next to the temple there is a baptistery, richly painted with frescoes on the popular themes of the suffering of Christ and the Last Judgment at that time.
A modest church, behind the façade of which hides the greatest cultural treasure of humanity - the original frescoes of the incomparable Giotto di Bonde from the beginning of the 14th century. They are considered one of the main works of art Western Europe. Images of the Doomsday fresco occupy the entire inner wall of the main facade. The remaining walls are painted with scenes on the theme of the Nativity of Christ and the adoration of the Magi, the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, Epiphany, the Last Supper and other biblical scenes.
The church is located near the Scrovegni Chapel. The building was erected at the end of the 13th century. Masters A. da Forli, A. Mantegna and Guariento worked on the interior painting. The temple and monastery were built by Augustinian monks who preached a hermitic lifestyle. The monastery existed until the 19th century, until Napoleon Bonaparte set up his barracks here.
A museum complex that includes the Pinakothek and an archaeological exhibition. It houses sculptures, coin collections, dishes and other archaeological finds, as well as an impressive collection of paintings by famous painters. In the Pinacoteca you can admire the works of Tintoretto, Giotto, Titian, Tiepolo and Bellini. The archaeological department displays exhibits from different periods of Padua's existence.
The historical cafe has been operating since 1831. Since its opening, its distinctive feature has been the absence of entrance doors and round-the-clock operation. Pedrocchi's very first coffee shop opened in 1772. On the edge XIX century Bergamo heir Pedrocchi begins to develop an entire coffee business and begins building a new cafe with its own bakery, which has survived to this day.
Country villa of the 16th century, built for the Contarini brothers, representatives of the Venetian aristocracy. Previously, this place was a hunting ground. The building is surrounded by a large park of 40 hectares, where there are stocked lakes and alleys for walking. Architectural ensemble The villa was significantly expanded during the Baroque era. V. Scamozzi and B. Longhena worked on the decoration of the facade.
The botanical garden was created in the 16th century during the heyday of the Venetian Republic. It is considered the oldest in the world; original plantings are still preserved on its territory. The garden belongs to the University of Padua. At first, medicinal plants were grown there, from which students made various potions. But gradually the garden collection was replenished with plants brought by Venetian merchants from long voyages. In 1997, the Botanical Garden of Padua was included in the UNESCO lists.
A natural park in which the resorts of Montegrotto Terme and Abano are located. Also within the park are the medieval estate of Arqua Petrarca, the town of Monselice and the monastery of Abbazia di Praglia. The terrain is different amazing beauty and the tranquility of the landscapes. Vineyards and orchards grow on the hillsides. You can walk, bike or drive around the park.
The sights of Padua are distributed throughout the city with sufficient density, and three zones of their greatest concentration can be distinguished: the first is the Arena and Chapel degli Scrovegni, the second is the Palazzo della Rajone, and the third is the Basilica of Prato della Valle and Sant'Antonio.
All these areas are connected by one street, which stretches from the north, from the railway station, to the south - to the largest city square, Prato della Valle.
Along its route, this urban artery takes on different names: Corso del Popolo, Giuseppe Garibaldi, Via Cavour, Via 8 February, Via Roma, Umberto I.
The historical center is compact, however, it will take 2-3 days to thoroughly explore the sights of Padua.
The first tourism office is located in the railway station building, the second is in a narrow alley behind the Pedrocchi cafe. You can take it there free card city and buy a discount card Padova Card.
A Padova Card for 2 days costs 16 euros, for 3 days – 21. In addition to tourism offices, it can be purchased at Eremitani museums.
The Padova Card gives you free access to the following attractions in Padua:
- Chapel degli Scrovegni (opening hours 9.00-19.00)
- Eremitani Museums and Palazzo Zuckermann (9.00-19.00)
- Palazzo della Ragione (9.00-19.00, November-January 9.00-18.00)
- Cafe Pedrocchi: historical rooms and Risorgemento Museum (9.30-12.30, 15.30-18.00)
- Oratorio San Michele (in this moment under restoration) and San Rocco (9.30-12.30, 15.30-19)
- Baptistery of San Giovanni (10-18 every day)
- Loggia and Odeon Cornaro (Tue-Fri: 10-13. Weekends: 10-13 and 16-19, in winter 15-18).
- Petrarch's House in Arqua Petrarca (March-October 9-12.30 and 15-19, November-February 9-12.30 and 14.30-17.30)
Closed on Monday in all museums, except for the Baptistery and the Scrovegni Chapel, which are open seven days a week, and on March 25, admission to the Scrovegni Chapel is free (book in advance).
The card also gives discounts to other museums. For example, you can go to the Botanical Garden for half price with a Padova card.
Holders of the Padova Card can use public transport free of charge both within the city of Padua and on buses going to the Euganean thermal complexes of Abano Terme and Montegrotto Terme (lines: A-M-T-AT).
Buying a card is definitely worth it if you are in the city for two days or more.
If you only have a day at your disposal, then you can also easily make a profit by going to the Scrovegni Chapel, the Eremitani Museums and another museum, for example, the Palazzo della Ragione. General ticket to the Scrovegni Chapel, Eremitani Museums and Palazzo Zuckermann costs 13 euros.
If you don't have much time, go to the Scrovegni Chapel for 10 euros and to the Basilica of Sant'Antonio for free: these are the two most significant attractions of Padua. And take a walk around the historical center. In this case, you can do without Padova cards.
Let's look at each of the zones in more detail.
Arena and Chapel degli Scrovegni
Leaving the station building and “standing” on Corso del Popolo, you will soon cross the bridge over the canal and on the left you will see a low wall of white stone - the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater from the 1st century AD, or Arenas.
Map of Padua with attractions 1
On the north side of the Arena, a park stretches along the canal.
From the south - adjacent to the ruins of the Arena Eremitani Church(Hermits) 13th century. Entrance to the church is free. Unfortunately, in 1944 the church was heavily damaged during Anglo-American bombing. Fragments of several frescoes have survived, including those by the young Andrea Mantegna.
Frescoes damaged by shell fragments
To the left of the church is the entrance to Eremitani Museums, which are located in the building of the former Augustinian monastery. This is the one museum complex with a large courtyard in the middle, but it is called “museums” in the plural, emphasizing that it consists of two parts: the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Medieval and Modern Art.
Opposite the Arena across the road is Palazzo Zuckermann, which houses the Museum of Decorative Arts, which is based on the collection of Nicolo Bottachin.
A single ticket to the Eremitani Museum and Palazzo Zuckermann costs 10 euros.
Chapel degli Scrovegni
At the box office of the Eremitani Museums you can buy (or redeem pre-booked) tickets to the Scrovegni Chapel. In any case, 1 euro is added to the ticket price - as if for a reservation. In high tourist season It's definitely worth booking your ticket ahead of time on the website http://www.cappelladegliscrovegni.it/index.php/en/
If you are traveling to low season, then it is quite possible to buy tickets at the box office (it is better to first go to the chapel’s website to make sure that tickets are available for the session you need).
Chapel degli Scrovegni was built at the beginning of the 14th century by order of Enrico Scrovegni and was connected to the palace of the Scrovegni family (the enterprising Scrovegni used the stones of the Roman Arena to build their palazzo; but at the moment nothing remains of the palace).
From 1303 to 1305 the walls of the chapel were painted by Giotto. The arched vault depicts a starry sky. On the walls there are three rows of frescoes depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and Jesus: in each row there are several paintings, separated from each other by panels. The bottom row of frescoes is an allegorical depiction of vices and virtues. On the end wall there is a picture of the Last Judgment.
Visits to the chapel are organized by sessions. First, visitors are kept in a “pre-trial detention cell”, showing a short film about the chapel, then they are taken into the chapel for 15 minutes.
After visiting the chapel, you can buy books with photographs of the frescoes.
In the Scrovegni Chapel, Giotto created a certain ideal example of a completed internal space (the mausoleum of Placidia in Ravenna gives a similar impression of completeness), which was later imitated. In Padua, you will come across “caskets” painted on the inside more than once. The themes of the frescoes are very different: religious, mythological, astrological, everyday, symbols, zodiac signs, animals and plants are very common. And in search of these buildings we will go to the next part of Padua.
Palazzo della Ragione and historic center
From the Arena in about 5 minutes we reach Piazza Garibaldi. This place was once the site of the forum of the ancient city of Patavium. Only one column remains from the forum, on which a statue of the Madonna is now erected.
On the left (eastern) side of the square between the buildings you can see the medieval Altinate Gate, which was part of the first belt of fortress walls that surrounded Padua in the 13th century.
Via Altinate begins behind the gate. On this street you will find two notable churches: the luxuriously baroque San Gaetano and the darkly ascetic Santa Sofia. Santa Sofia is one of ancient churches Padua.
We return to Piazza Garibaldi and continue along Via Cavour, which leads us to the center of medieval Padua.
Map of Padua with 2 landmarks
Cafe Pedrocchi
The first significant object on this path will appear before us Cafe Pedrocchi– the most famous cafe in Padua.
It was built in 1831 on a lively site. At that time, it became fashionable to drink coffee, and in the wake of this fashion, a coffee shop appeared, which gained popularity and became a meeting place for the public of all strata: from nobles to students. In it, Stendhal wrote “The Monastery of Parma.” One of the desserts served in this cafe even now bears his name - “Zabaione Stendhal”.
The cafe has portals with columns on opposite sides. Having entered one entrance, you can pass through three halls and exit through another. The feeling of openness and openness was exactly what the founders of the cafe were striving for. It worked around the clock and had affordable prices - in one of the rooms you could just sit and read without ordering anything. During the Austrian rule, conspirators and fighters for a united and free Italy gathered in the Pedrocchi cafe.
Now there is still a cafe on the ground floor. On the second floor of Pedrocchi there are Risorgemento Museum and historical rooms, decorated in different styles: Moorish, Greek, Egyptian, Etruscan, Gothic, Baroque. Entrance to the museum is 6 euros, or free with a Padova card.
Palazzo del Bo, or University of Padua
Diagonally from the cafe, on the other side of the street, stands Palazzo del Bo, home to the University of Padua, one of the oldest in Europe. It was founded in 1222 by scientists from the University of Bologna, who left the walls of their alma mater due to a conflict with the leadership and settled in Padua.
Tours of the palace are available in Italian and English languages. The cost of a 40-minute excursion is 7 euros. Tickets begin to be sold 15 minutes before the start of the show. Padova cards are not valid.
Schedule of excursions to Palazzo Bo
During the tour you will see
— Cortile Antico, the university's courtyard, surrounded by two tiers of open galleries decorated with numerous coats of arms of faculty and alumni,
— front halls of the university: Aula Magna,
Aula Magna
— Soroka Hall with portraits of outstanding students of the University of Padua (including the Russian physician, translator and philosopher Pyotr Vasilyevich Postnikov, sent to Padua to study Peter I. By the way, he made the first translation of the Koran into Russian). There is also a wooden pulpit made from rough boards, from which Galileo Galilei lectured (Galileo taught at the University of Padua for 18 years, from 1592 to 1610).
- amazing anatomical theater. Anyone who visited the University of Bologna remembers the elegantly designed anatomical theater, intended for a small circle of people. The local anatomical theater has 6 tiers, and it could accommodate about 200 observers. The tiers are elliptical in shape and enclosed by a wooden balustrade. There is standing room.
Model of the anatomical theater at the University of Padua
We, excursionists, were shown the theater from below - from where the dismembered body lay. In the Middle Ages, it was forbidden to dissect bodies, so autopsies were performed in secret, and it was important to quickly hide the corpse in a secluded place in case of unexpected guests. It was from this secluded place that we looked at the rising rows of the theater. It is a pity that it was not possible to look at the theater from the upper tier.
Photography is prohibited at the University of Padua, but it is not strictly enforced.
Opposite Palazzo Bo stands a two-tiered marble building, behind the front façade of which lies a whole conglomerate of municipal buildings. Here are the Podesta Palace, the Palace of the Council, and the Palace of the Elders with a high brick tower. Sometimes this collection of buildings is called Palazzo Communale.
On the left there is an entrance to the courtyard, you can enter and climb the solemn staircase of the Elders.
Palazzo della Ragione
Adjacent to the Palazzo Communale Palazzo della Ragione, or the Palace of Justice: a massive, rectangular building covered with a high, humped wooden roof, which has been compared to the inverted bottom of a ship. Externally, Palazzo Ragione resembles the Basilica Palladiana in Vicenza.
Along its long sides on the second floor there are open galleries. The palazzo itself was built in 1218-1219, and the wooden roof and loggias on the sides were added a century later.
On one side of Palazzo della Ragione there is Piazza delle Erbe (herbal or vegetable market), on the other - Piazza della Frutta (fruit market). Markets still exist today. Fortunately, they are removed in the evening, and you can admire the ensemble of squares without interference and with beautiful lighting.
The entrance to Palazzo Ragione is via a steep staircase from Piazza de Trav. Ticket – 6 euros (free with Padova card).
First, visitors climb the gallery, admire its painted vaults and look at the square from above.
Then they enter a huge, deserted hall, covered with a “ship” roof. Moreover, there are no columns, supports, rafters in the hall - the roof rests only on the walls.
The walls of the hall are covered with frescoes. The principle of placing images is the same as in the Scrovegni Chapel: the walls are lined up in rows, in each row the pictures follow each other, separated by panels. There are a total of 333 pictures in the room. The main motive of the paintings is astrological; there are also religious scenes and court scenes (after all, the city court was located here).
Giotto took part in the initial painting of this huge hall. The hall was painted for 4 years, from 1314 to 1318.
On February 2, 1420, a terrible fire broke out in the palace, destroying, among other things, Giotto's frescoes. What we see today is the work of Stefano de Ferrara and Nicolo Miretto. “The author of the idea” is astrologer Pietro d’Abano.
There is a meridian laid out on the floor in the center of the hall, and above it, high on the wall, hangs a golden mask with a small hole through which the sun's ray penetrates the building and slides along the meridian. A Foucault pendulum swings in one of the corners.
At the far end of the deserted hall there is a figure of a wooden horse, built according to Donatello’s drawings.
Piazza dei Signori
Leaving the Palazzo della Ragione, we go around it and along Via Fiume (literally “River Street”) we reach Piazza dei Signori. I remember when I first came to the center of Padua, I was delighted by this bunch of squares. I am used to the isolation of large squares, but in Italy the flow of squares - each with its own ensemble of beautiful ancient buildings - is found everywhere (and often with the same names, such as Piazza Duomo - Piazza Erbe - Piazza dei Signori).
Just now we were standing in Piazza delle Erbe, in front of a marble fountain, and admiring the elegant arcades of Palazzo Ragione, and now we are in Piazza della Signori, and there is also something to admire around us.
Palazzo Ragione is now obscured Church of Clement(12th century).
Piazza della Signori is decorated with a fountain and a column topped with a winged lion - a symbol of San Marco and Venice, under whose rule Padua was for four centuries.
The most prominent building on this Palazzo Capitanio, with the Clock Tower in the middle. The pallazo housed the captain - the governor of the Venetian Republic.
Previously, this place was the location of the Reggia Carraresi, the palace of the local rulers and lords. The Carraresi family (Da Carrara) ruled Padua from 1318 to 1405. Therefore, the square in front of their residence began to be called Signor's Square. Carraresi's estates occupied an entire block, from Piazza dei Signori to Piazza Duomo.
To the left of Palazzo Capitanio is Loggia del Consiglio, or Loggia del Gran Guardia.
The loggia was built at the beginning of the 16th century, after the Palazzo Ragione was damaged during a fire, and it was necessary to house some of the city services somewhere.
Under the Austrians, it housed the headquarters of the guard. Now you can go into the Loggia and see on the second floor the main hall with frescoes (the author of the frescoes is Pier Antonio Torri, 1667).
Between Signoria and Loggia del Consiglio lies Via Monte di Pieta, the fastest route to Piazza Duomo.
You can lengthen the path slightly by going through the arch in the Clock Tower. By the way, on clock tower, judging by the show schedule on the door, you can go up. It was closed when we were there.
Behind the arch begins the narrow, long Piazza Capitagnato, on the left side of which stands Palazzo Liviano. The palazzo was named in honor of the historian Titus Livius, a native of Padua. The Liviano Palace was built in the last century (1932-1943) on the initiative of the rector of the University of Padua. It houses the university's humanities faculties, and on the third floor there is a museum of Archeology and Art.
This modern building connects to Palazzo Capitano, rebuilt from the Palazzo Carraresi. Remained from the original palace Hall of Giants with frescoes from the 14th century. Among the most valuable frescoes is the image of Petrarch, who in last years life was a private guest of Francesco da Carrara.
One of the ways to get to the Hall of Giants is to go to a concert held in this hall. They say the hall has excellent acoustics.
Duomo and Baptistery
And we, having rounded the block of Carraresi's former possessions, come out to Piazza Duomo.
The Cathedral of Padua was built according to the design of Michelangelo. Inside it is quite faceless, and I remember it primarily for its touching presepe.
Next to the Duomo stands the Baptistery of San Giovanni, and it is the main attraction of this square. Built in the 12th century as the family mausoleum of the Signori da Carrara, it was painted in 1378 by the Florentine artist Giusto de Menabui, a follower of Giotto.
Entrance to the baptistery – 3 euros (free with Padova card).
Expulsion from Paradise
Judas (with a black halo) kisses Christ
Baptistery dome
On the left side of the Duomo - Bishop's Palace , which now houses a museum of church values, Diocesano.
To the right of the Baptistery rises a white marble Arch of Vallaresso, which we first took to be Roman.
It turned out that the arch was erected in 1632 in honor of the city ruler Alvise Vallaresso, who saved the city from the plague (he saved it by introducing quarantine, ordering the dead to be buried outside the city and following certain hygiene rules).
Adjacent to the Arch of Vallaresso to the right is the 13th-century Palazzo del Monte di Pietà. It now hosts exhibitions.
Behind Piazza Duomo begins the area in which the ghetto was located in the 17th and 18th centuries. Padua ghetto was limited to the streets: via Barbarigo, Manin, S. Canziano, Roma and Marsala. At nightfall, the Jews had to return to the ghetto. At night the gates (there were 4 of them) were bolted.
Now this area is not much different from the rest of the historical center. Maybe a little more density, narrowness and curvature of the streets.
There is also a synagogue here. If you go from Piazza Duomo along Via dei Soncin, you will pass right by it.
Via dei Sonchin leads to a busy via Roma, where there are many cafes and shops. Among the attractions there is a church Santa Maria dei Servi.
A covered gallery runs along the long side of the church.
If you take Via Roma in a southerly direction, you can quickly reach Prato della Valle. However, it is more interesting to go there along Via San Francesco. Therefore, I propose to go north along Via Roma, return to the University of Padua and then go east from there.
Via San Francesco
The first square on our way is Piazza Antenore. On one side of the square stands the Prefecture building, on the other there is a charming, completely Venetian style Palazzo Romanin Yakur, on which hangs a sign that Dante honored the house with his presence.
In the middle of a secluded, tree-lined square stands a sarcophagus on high legs. The remains resting inside are attributed to the Trojan Antenor, who, after the fall of Troy, managed to escape from the city alive and, having reached these shores, founded a settlement that later became the Roman city called Patavium. Whether this was the case or not is unknown. But when in 1274 an ark was discovered with the body of a warrior with a sword, dressed in ancient armor, they decided that it was none other than Antenor himself.
Behind the tall sarcophagus of Antenor lies a smaller sarcophagus - its owner is quite determined: this is the poet Lovato dei Lovati, who put forward a hypothesis about who the found remains of the warrior belonged to and wrote the epitaph for Antenor.
The square is followed by a couple of nice buildings. And now a low square tower is visible, and behind it is the Palazzo Zabarella. Now it belongs to the Bano Foundation, which uses the halls of the palace to hold art exhibitions (when we were there there was an exhibition of the Impressionists).
After the church, don't miss the first right turn. It will be Via Galilei Galileo, and there is a house in which Galileo lived for 18 years, from 1592 to 1610 (you can recognize the house by the sign - it hangs at the second floor level).
After seeing Galileo's house, we return to Via San Francisco, but you won't miss the next turn to the right - to Via Cesarotti - and, one might say, will be drawn into this street when you see the domes and towers of the Basilica of Sant'Antonio.
Loggia and Odeon Cornaro
However, on the same street, before reaching the basilica, there is another attraction - Loggia and Odeon Cornaro, a 16th-century Renaissance complex consisting of two buildings: the Loggia, or “Ancient Theater” (built 1524-1537) and the Odeon (1544), intended for music playing, poetry evenings and scientific debates. The complex was created by Giovanni Maria Falconetto, commissioned by Alvise Cornaro.
Ticket costs 3 euros, free with Padova card. Opening hours: Tue-Fri: 10-13. Weekends: 10-13 and 16-19 (in winter 15-18).
I don't know how well this schedule is followed. When we approached the loggia, the cashier told us that she would open the gate at 12 o'clock. We waited 10 minutes. During this time, another person approached, and she led the three of us into the territory of the complex, a rectangular, grassy area, at the far end of which stood a loggia, and to the right was a marble-clad Odeon. The inside of the building is covered with frescoes.
Inside the Odeon there are several small halls. The central hall is octagonal with a dome.
Basilica of Sant'Antonio and Prato della Valle
However, we quietly approached the third center of concentration of attractions - the Basilica of Sant'Antonio and Prato della Valle.
Map of Padua with 3 landmarks
Basilica del Santo
The Basilica del Santo (this is the short name for the Basilica of St. Anthony) is the primary religious value of Padua. More than 6 million visitors visit it every year. It is believed that Saint Anthony helps in finding children and their health. The saint’s sarcophagus is hung with leaves with words of gratitude from people who, after visiting the basilica, were able to give birth to or cure a child. Often a photograph of the baby is attached to such leaves. It's very touching.
The building itself makes a grandiose impression. Externally, it is a semi-Romanesque, semi-Byzantine structure, with seven domes, with narrow towers similar to minarets.
The interior space amazes with its size and luxurious design. I remember that on my previous visits (I had been to Padua twice before) it was forbidden to take photographs. This time everyone around me was taking pictures. I was surprised by such changes.
The church in honor of St. Anthony of Padua began to be built a year after his death, in 1232 (immediately after canonization), and it took 78 years to build. Subsequently there were partial changes. This explains the mixture of various styles in the design, which, for example, did not in any way interfere with my perception.
Adjacent to the basilica are courtyards and the Antonian Library with priceless ancient manuscripts.
Piazza del Santo
The square in front of the basilica is called Piazza del Santo, Square of the Saint. There is no need to explain which saint - of course, Anthony of Padua.
In Piazza del Santo there is a famous work by Donatello - an equestrian monument to the condottiere Narni, nicknamed Gattamelata.
On the other side of the square there are two uniform brick chapels connected by a two-story white building.
Of interest is the left chapel - Oratorio di San Giorgio with frescoes from the 14th century.
At the entrance you buy a ticket for 5 euros, which also includes a visit to the neighboring white two-story building - the scoletta di Santo.
The employee, in addition to the ticket, gives you a sheet with a description of the frescoes (there is a description in Russian). Then he takes you to the skoletta and leaves you there alone until you’ve seen enough. In the scoletta, going up to the second floor, you find yourself in a low, spacious hall with coffered ceilings. The walls of the hall are painted with frescoes, three of them were painted by the young Titian in 1511 (he was 23 years old at the time).
Prato della Valle
Having admired the frescoes, we go out to Prato della Valle(“prato” means “meadow” in Italian), one of the most wonderful squares I’ve ever seen. Actually, my interest in Padua arose after I saw Prato della Valle in photographs.
There was once a swampy meadow here. This vast space, unsuitable for building houses, was used for urban needs. There was a Roman theater and a market here, criminals were executed here, races, knightly tournaments, and festivities were held. Finally, in 1767, they decided to drain the meadow and improve the place. The city mayor, Andrea Memmo, took charge of this.
An ellipse-shaped canal was dug in the square. The island formed in the center was named after the initiator of the work - Memmia Island.
Sculptures of prominent residents of Padua were placed along the edges of the canal (there were 78 of them, among them: Petrarch, Galileo, Torquato Tasso, Andrea Mantegna). The island was decorated with alleys converging in the center. Bridges were built across the canal. The lights were installed. It turned out very beautiful.
Here's what you can make from a swamp:
Prato del Valle is always lively. One evening we saw a nutria swimming along the canal. I believe the water in the canal is quite clean.
Along the perimeter of the square there are 3-4-story buildings. Under the arcades of one of them - Palazzo Amulea– two more statues stand apart: Dante and Giotto. In life they were friendly. And today they stand close to each other.
Basilica of Santa Giustina
The Basilica of St. Anthony is almost invisible from here. But another church, standing at the far end of the square, attracts attention - Basilica of Saint Giustina.
The basilica inside is very bright and simply enormous in size. This is one of the largest churches in Italy. In addition to Saint Giustina, who was martyred in 304, the church also houses the remains of other early Christian martyrs. In a separate chapel there is a shrine with the relics of the Evangelist Luke.
I must admit, I was surprised that the relics of the Evangelist attract believers much less than the relics of St. Anthony. I think that there is some uncertainty and conjecture about the Evangelist Luke.
Ortho Botanico
Between two basilicas: Giustina and Antonia - hiding Ortho Botanico, the oldest botanical garden in Europe, formed through the efforts of doctors from the University of Padua in 1545 for the cultivation and study of medicinal herbs. In 1997, Ortho Botanico was included in the UNESCO list.
A ticket to the garden costs 10 euros (with a Padova card - 5 euros). The big advantage of this facility is that there is no siesta here, which, generally speaking, is simply the scourge of tourists in Italy. Siesta is strictly observed: from 12 to 15, most of Padua's attractions are closed. So, if you find yourself in a siesta somewhere in the Prato della Valle area, you can go to Orto Botanico. (And if at the other end of the city - to the Eremitani museums, they are open from 9 to 19, except Mondays. In the center you can while away a siesta in the Pedrocchi cafe: first have lunch or drink coffee, and then visit the museum).
The historical core of the garden is a circle surrounded by walls.
Inside, the circle is divided into numerous palettes.
Outside the circle there are paths that lead to various nice corners, for example, to the top of a small hill, which you climb among bushes and descend among bamboos.
Plant compositions are successfully complemented by the domes of one or the other basilica.
After crossing a narrow canal (or a river?), you find yourself in an open space, along the edge of which stretches a building with transparent walls.
Once inside it, you successively pass through the tropics, subtropics, Mediterranean vegetation and desert. You can go below or above.
Ortho Botanico left a pleasant impression.
Observatory La Specola
From Prato della Valle we will return to the center along Via Umberto 1st and, having reached the canal, turn left. Let's walk along the canal, and soon it will appear ahead Torlong Tower- the only surviving tower of Castelvecchio Castle. For a long time, prisoners were kept in the tower. Under the Venetians in 1761, on the initiative of scientists from the University of Padua, the tower was converted into an astronomical observatory, and now it houses La Specola Museum.
Visits to La Specola are organized for tourists on weekends, one session per day, in winter at 16:00, in summer at 18:00. Group size - 25 people. The tour is conducted in Italian. During the excursion, the group goes upstairs, enters the halls of the observatory, looks at astronomical instruments and portraits of astronomers.
In the upper domed room of the tower you can go outside and walk around the tower along the balcony.
If your goal is to look at Padua from above, choose a time of year so that the day will be longer. I don't know why not do this excursion earlier. We ended up and, in general, were disappointed.
Oratorios of San Michele and San Rocco
Opposite Torlonga Tower on the other side of the canal stands a modest oratory of San Michele- another attraction of Padua. As you might guess, the inside of the oratory is also painted with frescoes.
There is a notice on the door of the oratory that it is closed for restoration. However, tickets to La Specola are sold precisely in this oratorio of San Michele. About forty minutes before the start of the tour, a line forms at the doors of the oratory. The cashier is sitting inside. Having bought a ticket to La Specola, you can then see the frescoes of San Michele and even photograph them without prohibition.
Another oratorio - San Rocco- located near Palazzo Ragione. If you go from Piazza della Frutta along Via Stefano Breda, then on the left you will see the Church of Santa Lucia and next to it the inconspicuous Oratory of St. Roch. During our stay in the oratory, the second floor was being renovated, so we were allowed into the first floor (where, in fact, the frescoes are located) for free. And they gave us a piece of paper with a description of the frescoes.
As my story progresses, you realized that one of the main attractions of Padua is the frescoes of the 14th century. Giotto, with his paintings in the Scrovegni Chapel, set a pattern that his followers developed and deepened. Currently, the works of Giotto and his followers in Padua are candidates for inclusion in the UNESCO list. All of them are in the “Padova urbs picta” nomination. Here is a list of buildings with frescoes included in this nomination:
Cappella degli Scrovegni e Chiesa degli Eremitani
Palazzo della Ragione, Battistero del Duomo, Cappella della Reggia Carrarese
Basilica del Santo, Oratorio di San Giorgio
Oratorio di San Michele
So there is a possibility that a second UNESCO site will soon appear in Padua (the first is Orto Botanico).
The article turned out to be long, although I tried to write briefly about each attraction, and perhaps I missed something else. In any case, there is something to see in Padua. I hope that those who are going to Padua will find useful information for themselves, and those who were not going may want to see this city. The splendor of neighboring Venice leaves Padua in the shadows, and, nevertheless, all its advantages (very significant) remain with it.
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Padua is one of most beautiful places in Italy, where there are not many tourists. Here you can enjoy magnificent architectural masterpieces and religious sites and simply stroll along the local streets.
The ancient and beautiful town of Padova is located in northern Italy in the Veneto region. Not far from Padua there are favorite places for tourists: Venice (40 km) and Verona (70 km).
Padua (the sights tell the history of the city) covers an area of only 93 square meters. km. The city has beautiful canals that prevent flooding. More than 210 thousand people live in Padua. During the tourist season this figure increases. The population speaks Italian. The monetary unit is the euro.
Climate and weather
The climate in the city is continental. In winter it is quite cool, and in summer there are high temperatures, which are sometimes difficult to tolerate due to high humidity. Fog can often be seen in spring and autumn.
January is considered the coldest. The temperature on the thermometer during the day is about +7 - +9, and at night the thermometer can drop to +3. The highest temperatures occur in August. During the day the thermometer can reach +31, and at night about 20 degrees Celsius. 
In summer you can meet a large number of tourists in the city who come from many resorts on excursions. Because of this, there are queues at many attractions. In hot weather, Padua is quite stuffy, as the stone streets and houses get quite hot in the sun.
Tourists who want to see the city and swim in the sea (about 45 km from the city) should come here in the summer. For those interested only in sightseeing, you should plan your trip in spring or early fall.
How to get there
Since Padua does not have its own airport, you must fly to the nearest cities with airports. (Venice, Verona). And from there you can get to the city using various options. 
| Kind of transport | Features of the option |
| Air | 1. A direct flight Moscow-Venice will cost about 180 USD. Travel time is almost 3.5 hours. 2. The cost of tickets with a transfer in Brussels or Berlin is much lower and is about 86 USD. But you will have to spend from 10 to 18 hours on the way. 3. A ticket for a direct flight Moscow-Verona costs about 100 USD. That is, and the flight requires a little more than 3.5 hours. |
| Train | 1. The Moscow-Verona train travels for 1 day and 17 hours. Tickets cost from 4800 rubles. 2. In Verona you can take the train to Padua and in 40 minutes. get to the place. Ticket price is about 700 rubles. |
| Bus | From the airport or railway station of neighboring cities you can get to Padua by bus. 1. Verona-Padua. 2. Venice-Padua. The travel time will be just over 1 hour and the cost of the trip will be about 160 rubles. 3. The Moscow-Naples bus will take you to Verona in 2 days. The cost of the trip is about 15,700 rubles. |
| Auto | The distance from Moscow to Padua by car is about 2600 km. The route will pass through the territories of several states (Belarus, Poland, Czech Republic, Austria). |
| Hitch-hiking | Adventure and extreme sports enthusiasts and people who are not afraid of difficulties can hitchhike to their destination. |
Padua, whose attractions are distributed evenly throughout the city, has very attractive architecture.
You can get around the city by public transport or taxi. There are a large number of bicycle rental points in the city. Those who love comfort can rent a car.
Where to stay
Padua, whose attractions provide an opportunity to get acquainted with the culture of the country, has a fairly large number of hotels for any tourist.
The most popular hotels in each category:
1. Le Camp Suite & Spa. 
The luxurious 4-star hotel has spacious rooms and a spa complex. Guests can relax in the sauna or hammam. The hotel is located in the central part of the city next to famous objects. A gym is also available to visitors. Each room has a balcony and a private bathroom. The price, which includes breakfast, starts from 149 USD.
2. Albergo Verdi.
The hotel is located in the historical part of the city near popular attractions. The 3 star hotel has a separate bar. The rooms have TV, air conditioning and internet. For 90 USD That is, you can get a room with breakfast included.
3. Hotel Sagittario.
The 3-star hotel is located away from the center. Has its own restaurant. In rooms, the cost per person starts from 71 USD. That is, there is television, internet and air conditioning. The price includes breakfast.
4. Hotel Al Prato. 
A cozy 3 star hotel is located in the very center of the city. The rooms have a private bathroom with amenities and a TV with air conditioning. The cost of a room for 1 adult starts from 68 USD. e. Breakfast is also included.
5. Hotel Belludi 37.
A comfortable 2-star hotel located in the very center close to many attractions. The spacious rooms have TV and internet. The price per night in a hotel with breakfast starts from 86 USD. e.
Where to eat
Padua has a large number of cafes and restaurants that offer local cuisine. Tourists enjoy trying Italian and Mediterranean food. Traditional pizza and pasta can be enjoyed in various variations.
1. Osteria di Fuori Porta.
The comfortable restaurant is located in a quiet and quiet place and offers visitors a choice of dishes from Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Large selection of wine from different brands. The menu includes dishes for vegetarians.
2. Sugo Padova. 
In the restaurant, everyone can find food for themselves. European, Italian and Mediterranean cuisine is presented here. The menu includes vegan and gluten-free options. Even fast food lovers have something to offer. In the restaurant, visitors can watch food being prepared.
3. Ristorante Zafferano. 
A cozy restaurant, located near the Church of St. Anthony, offers a large selection of Mediterranean and European dishes. Diners can also order gluten-free food. The family restaurant serves many fresh fish dishes.
Attractions
Padua, whose attractions date from different periods of time, is considered a city with three “withouts”: a cafe without doors, a field without grass and a saint without a name.
| Sight | Location | Ticket price |
| Palazzo della Ragione | pl. delle Erbe | 4 euros |
| Prato della Valle | pl. Prato Valle | for free |
| Piazza della Signoria | pl. della Signoria | for free |
| University of Padua | st. 8 Febbraio 2 | for free |
| Zuckermann Palace | Ave. Giuseppe Garibaldi 33 | 10 euros |
| Basilica of Santa Giustina | st. Giuseppe Ferrari 2A | for free |
| Basilica of St. Anthony | pl. del Santo 11 | for free |
| Cathedral of Padua | pl. Duomo | for free |
| Scrovegni Chapel | pl. Eremitani 8 | Children under 6 years old and disabled people free; Children over 6 years old and students – 6 euros; Adults – 10 euros |
| Eremitani Church | pl. Eremitani 9 | for free |
| Eremitani City Museum | pl. Eremitani 8 | 10 euros |
| Cafe Pedrocchi | st. Otto Febbraio 15 | free, museum on the upper level (adults - 4 euros, children - 2.5 euros) |
| Villa Contarini | Este | 7 euros |
| Botanical Garden of Padua | st. Orto Botanico, 15 | Children – 1 euro Adults – 4 euros |
| Province of Padua | for free |
Palazzo della Ragione
The Palace of Justice, built in the 8th century, has an unusual roof. Palazzo della Ragione is located in the center and divides the Piazza dei Herbs and Fruits. 
Inside the building you can see floral patterns and astronomical paintings that are dedicated to each month. The Palace of Justice has many different instruments that help measure time, as well as the Foucault pendulum and sundial.
Prato della Valle
The area of Prato della Valle is the largest in Europe and occupies about 90 thousand square meters. km. Created in the very center artificial island which is separated by a channel. Small bridges cross the canals.
Prato della Valle has many ancient buildings and the Basilica of St. Giustina. There is also a fountain. There are 78 sculptures of famous personalities of Padua in the square.
Piazza della Signoria
The ancient Piazza della Signoria is a favorite place among tourists. There are many restaurants and the Admiralty, built in the 15th century.
The central square of Padua contains many attractions It has a clock that shows exact time, day of the week and month. The phase of the moon is also indicated here. During the holiday, performances are held in the square.
University of Padua
The university is one of the oldest in Europe. At one time, Copernicus and Galileo studied there. The university was a center for the study of medicine and astronomy.
Today, it has 13 faculties, with more than 60 thousand students studying there. Inside the university there is an open courtyard with benches. There are a large number of coats of arms depicted on the ceiling.
Zuckermann Palace
The Zuckermann Palace houses the Museum of Applied Arts on the 1st and 2nd floors. The 3rd floor is dedicated to the museum of coins and medals. The building is located next to the Scrovegni Chapel. 
Here you can see porcelain and wood products, National costumes and Venetian lace. Most coins and medals come from Ancient Greece and Rome, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance were the property of the merchant Bottachin, which were later transferred to the museum.
Basilica of Santa Giustina
The basilica was built in the place where Saint Giustina was buried. The building is made in the Renaissance style. The temple has several domes and a large bell tower consisting of 7 bells.
In the basilica you can touch the relics of St. Giustina and St. Luke and Matthew. The church was built in the form of a Latin cross and consists of 12 chapels.
The interior decoration of the temple amazes visitors. A large number of ancient and valuable icons, multi-colored mosaics on the floor. The church houses an impressive collection of books. Pilgrims can rest in 2 buildings, which are used as hotels for believers.
Basilica of St. Anthony
Saint Anthony was the defender of the city, in whose honor in the 13th century. the basilica was built. It contains his relics, which attract a large number of pilgrims every year. Here lie the remains of one of the rulers of Padua. 
The Basilica of Anthony of Padua consists of several chapels and chapels. In the external and internal decoration of the temple one can notice different styles, since the church was constantly rebuilt or added to. Near the altar are works by Donatello. The walls of the building are decorated with frescoes.
Cathedral of Padua
The cathedral is considered the main temple in the city. It was created in the Renaissance style and has a second name (Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta). The cathedral is a Latin cross and consists of several chapels and a private place for baptism (baptistery). In the center there is a font, which has been preserved since the 12th century.
In Padua cathedral there are the relics of Gregoria Barbarigo, who is considered the patron saint of orphans and widows. A copy of the Byzantine icon “The Virgin and Child” is also kept here.
Scrovegni Chapel
The Church of St. Mary of Mercy or the Scrovegni Chapel was built in the 13th century. for the money of the merchant Scrovegni. Inside the building you can see frescoes by the famous Italian artist Giotto. He depicted moments from the Bible: the birth of the Virgin Mary and Christ, the Last Supper, the Last Judgment and many others. 
The height of the ceilings in the chapel reaches almost 13 m. It was in the chapel that Giotto first depicted the birth of Christ the Savior.
Eremitani Church
The Church of Eremitani is the oldest temple in Padua and has a second name - the Church of the Hermits. It was built back in the 12th century.
Inside the building you can see frescoes by the famous Italian artist Mantegna and a large wooden Crucifix. The church contains the burial places of 2 princes from Padua. It was heavily damaged during World War II, so artists had to restore most of the frescoes.
Eremitani City Museum
The city museum is represented by 2 separate collections: archaeological and objects from the Middle Ages and modern art. Previously, this building housed the Augustinian monastery. 
On the 1st floor there is Archaeological Museum. Here you can see various dishes and other household items. The 2nd floor is dedicated to an art gallery, which houses works by many famous Italian artists of the Middle Ages and modern times.
Cafe Pedrocchi
Another interesting place in the center of Padua is the Pedrocchi cafe, which was opened back in the 18th century. It is unique in that the cafe has not been closed for more than 80 years. This is where the name “Cafe Without Doors” came from.
The cafe consists of several rooms decorated in different styles. Here you can see the hall of Ancient Greece and the Middle Ages, enjoy the interior of Ancient Rome, Egypt and Pompeii.
On the lower level there are 3 rooms, each of which is painted in the colors of the national flag of Italy (white, red, green). Since the cafe was a meeting place for Italian fighters who opposed Austrian rule in the 18th century, the Risorgimento Museum was created on the upper level.
Villa Contarini
The villa is located in Este in the Euganean Hills. It served as the country residence of the Contarini brothers. Here you can enjoy a beautiful park with lakes, which was created according to the example of a Renaissance garden. The park occupies almost 40 hectares. 
The villa consists of a main 3-storey building and adjacent 2-storey wings. On the top floor there are chambers. The lower level is given over to food storage and utility rooms.
This is the largest villa on the entire European continent.
The magnificent decoration and frescoes with mosaics have been preserved inside. Vivaldi often performed in the building.
Botanical Garden of Padua
In the city itself, on an area of 20 thousand square meters. km there is a Botanical Garden. Presented here big number plants. IN indoors excellent conditions have been created for local flora. Here you can see many unique plants and flowers (orchid, magnolia). There are also predator plants in the garden. And plants grow in the open air.
Benches, fountains and various sculptures are installed on the territory of the Botanical Garden. The botanical garden is included in the UNESCO heritage list.
Euganean Hills Regional Park
national reserve, whose area is about 19 thousand hectares, is one of the most beautiful places with picturesque nature. There are many different routes for tourists. On its territory there are fortified cities, ancient villas and ancient city Petrarch. 
There are also 2 famous thermal springs: Abano and Montegrotto Terme. The Euganean Hills are often called the “lungs” of Padua. In the fields of the Euganean Hills you can see a large number of vineyards and fruit trees.
Where to go with a child
Most tourists come on holiday with children. Daily excursions and sightseeing will be boring for children. Therefore, you need to choose entertainment places for the children.
1. Water park "Parco Padovaland".
The water park is located in the open air, so you can only visit it in good weather. A large number of water attractions for children and adults of all ages.
2. Park "Città dei Bambini".
The park has many swings and slides for children. Sports grounds are equipped.
3. Amusement Park water park.
Another water park with various types of attractions. There is a swimming pool and places for the little ones.
What to see in Padua in 1 day
Although Padua is a small city, it is almost impossible to cover all significant sites in 1 day. It is important to purchase a travel card (Padova Card), which is valid for 2 or 3 days and costs 16 and 21 euros. It gives you the opportunity to visit the attractions indicated in it without paying additional admission, and use public transport for free during this time.
Attractions in Padua are located mainly in the historical part of the city.
It is worth paying attention to the following cultural and historical sites:
What to see in 2-3 days
Not only are there many beautiful and interesting places in the city itself, there is also something to see in the province of Padua. Therefore, it is best to set aside a few days to calmly and slowly get to know this amazing place.
Day 1.
The first day is worth dedicating time to explore the city:
Day 2.
On the second day you can go outside the city and visit several villas with beautiful gardens and parks:
- Villa Barbarigo in Valsanzibio;
- Valsanzibio garden;
- Villa Emo in Rivella di Monselice;
- Villa Miari de Cumani;
- Villa Pisani-Scalabrine in Vescovan;
- Fassanelle Park;
- Villa Contarini.
Day 3.
On the last day of the excursion it is worth going to the fortified cities and visit one of the most beautiful nature reserves:
What to bring from Padua
While traveling in Italy, every tourist thinks about what to bring with them from the trip. I would like to buy not just a souvenir, but something original and interesting.
Souvenirs that are most popular among tourists:
- Traditional food products include: cheese, olive oil, pasta, dried ravioli, sun-dried tomatoes, marzipan and dry-cured sausage.
- In Padua, candles with the face of St. Anthony are very popular.
- Fashion lovers can purchase clothes and accessories from Italian designers.
- A bottle of Italian wine will be an excellent gift for family and friends.
- One more interesting souvenir From Italy there will be dishes or decorations made of Murano glass.
- Venetian masks and Italian dolls (Pinocchio, Harlequin).
Padua is becoming more and more popular every year. Tourists come here to enjoy the many attractions located in walking distance, try local cuisine and just wander around the quiet and calm city.
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Video about the sights of Padua
Padua overview:
TOURISTS' ANSWERS:
A 30-minute drive from beautiful Venice is the beauty of Padua, less promoted by tour operators. But this city has no less attractions than its famous neighbor.
University of Padua (Universita degli Studi di Padova)
This higher educational institution of the city, which is one of the oldest universities in Europe, is located at Via 8 Febbraio, 2 - 35122 Padova. From here such brilliant scientists of the first magnitude were produced as: Copernicus, Galileo, the first printer Skaryna and many other equally talented young people. It was founded in 1222. To see departments, laboratories and much more with your own eyes, you will have to pay for admission ticket for an adult - 5 euros.
Prato della Valle
This largest area of the country (8 square kilometers) is the pearl of the city, thanks to which the whole world knows about Padua. This square is so old that it still remembers the military parades and theatrical performances that were held here during the times of the Great Roman Empire. The square received its rebirth in 1775. The architect Dominico Cerato did a titanic work, as a result of which this island appeared, where statues of the most famous people who ever lived in Padua. In addition, there is a food market here on Saturdays. All significant urban cultural events are invariably held in this square, which is a favorite recreation spot local residents. This place is very beautiful and worth visiting.
Scrovegni Chapel
This chapel, which is the property of not only the city, but the whole of Italy, is located at the address: Padua, Giardini all "Arena, Piazza Eremitani, 8. It was built in 1305 with the money of the wealthy merchant Scrovegni. In itself, this religious building is no different from other buildings of that era. It gained its super popularity thanks to the great painter Giotto, who personally painted almost a square kilometer of walls, as well as the vaults of the chapel. No less famous is the statue depicting the Virgin Mary with a child, sculpted by Giovanni Pisano. To enjoy these 700-year-old frescoes, you will have to pay 12 euros - for an adult, 8 euros for a teenager, and 1 euro for a child. There are a lot of people who want to see this miracle, so the excursion is short - only 15 minutes!
Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua (Basilica di Sant "Antonio di Padova)
The address of this grandiose and majestic structure: Padua, Piazza del Santo 11. Every year, the temple is visited by more than 4 million believers and tourists who want to see and worship the shrine stored here - the thorns from the crown of thorns of Jesus. The church is named after one of the most revered saints in Italy. The beginning of construction of the temple dates back to 1232, and only 66 years later it was finally completed. The church interior is decorated with works by Titian. By the way, although the temple is located on the territory of the city, it belongs to the Vatican.
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Padua – beautiful city Italy, and there are a number of attractions worth seeing.
Basilica of Santa Giustina
The Basilica of this great martyr can be found in the very center of the city. It is not only a famous landmark, but also a place of pilgrimage. This church was built where Justina (or Giustina) died in 304. In the basilica, this saint is depicted wearing a crown, with a palm branch (a symbol of the martyr's victory over death) and a sword that pierces her chest. By the way, Justina is also a symbol of Venice. The church is decorated with 9 domes with crosses and statues. The church was restored many times, it was remodeled and remodeled, and what tourists can see today is the result of the last major construction in the 16th century. Inside the basilica there are the relics of saints, luxurious unusual furniture, terracotta sculptures, and paintings. The church's elegant façade is in the Renaissance style, with clear influences from Byzantine architectural styles. It is impossible not to notice the beautiful rose windows with geometric patterns, as well as two marble griffins. Incredible building!
Address: Via Giuseppe Ferrari, 2/A
Gate Porta Altinate
The gates and adjacent camps in ancient times served directly to protect the city from enemies. True, in the middle of the 13th century the gate was destroyed and rebuilt only a few decades later, and then it was restored and completed several times. Now the gate, or rather the remaining massive stone arch, is just a reminder of those turbulent times. The gate is decorated with very beautiful stucco.
Address: Piazza Garibaldi
Admiralty and clock tower
During the Venetian rule, the Venetian ruler met in this building. In the 16th century, the Admiralty and its 14th century clock tower were restored by a Veronese architect and his apprentices. That is, instead of a pointed arch, it became a classic triumphal one, the clock was changed, and a couple of details were removed. An interesting detail: the new watch began to show not only the time, but even the day of the week, month, lunar phase and, most surprisingly, the current horoscope sign. In addition, instead of Arabic numerals, there were 24 Roman numerals on the dial. Absolutely amazing thing! You can enter the Admiralty courtyard through the arch under the clock tower (and this arch was erected relatively recently, in 1630, after the general plague epidemic).
Address: street Monte Di Pietà
Piazza delle Erbe
One of the most beautiful squares in Padua! In addition, here you can every day “run into” shopping arcades with fresh products, souvenirs and flowers at fairly high prices. low prices. As for the attractions, it should be noted that the square was “captured” by ancient buildings of various eras, such as the Palazzo della Ragione and the Comuna de Padova - luxurious buildings in the Baroque style, decorated with statues of the ancient gods Jupiter, Venus and Apollo. Near the square you can find the Bibliotheca del Departmento, which was built back in 1370, and an office in an old building, whose façade was decorated and painted by local art students. This perfect place for walking and shopping!
Palazzo della Ragione
This is a luxurious palace built in the early 13th century, which was previously used for sessions of the city court. In those days, the building was quite boring, until somewhere in the 15th century one of the monks undertook a major overhaul and reconstruction of the palace. The roof in the shape of a ship's keel was covered with lead plates, and the inside walls were painted with a myriad (about 500) frescoes. It is interesting that the frescoes are connected together by the theme of the seasons. It's a shame that some of these wonderful works of art from the Renaissance were destroyed by a massive fire centuries ago, but what remains is an incredible cultural and architectural heritage! At the moment, the Palazzo is considered one of the largest halls of the Middle Ages, and tourists never tire of admiring the Foucault pendulum suspended under the dome of the palace.
Address: Piazza dell'Erbe
Monument to Gattamelata (Monumento Equestre al Gattamelata)
This monument is one of the best and most famous creations of the Italian Renaissance sculptor Donatello. The monument was erected here at the end of the 15th century. Who is this courageous statue dedicated to? Erasmo da Narni, nicknamed Gattamelata. He was a famous condottiere throughout Italy, that is, the leader of mercenary military detachments. This Erasmo was born into a simple family of a baker, and went a long way “from rags to riches,” and then became famous for having won many victories over the Venetian Republic. This is what earned me the honor of being “located” opposite the Basilica of St. Anthony. By the way, at that time, the fashion for equestrian statues somehow died down, and Donatello decided to resume it. And he did the right thing, because the monument on an equally beautiful pedestal turned out to be very, very beautiful!
Address: Piazza del Santo, 21
Antenor's Tomb (Tomba di Antenore)
According to legend, this Tomb contains the remains of the founder of Padua. It is not surprising that this burial place is located in the very heart of the city. Legend has it that a certain prince Antenor (it’s surprising that the city was not named after him) escaped after the destruction of Troy, came here and founded the city. The ancient Roman poet Virgil even writes about him in his Aeneid. The legend was strongly strengthened in the minds of the residents of Padua when in the Middle Ages they found the remains of a man with a sword and gold coins in a lead coffin - so they took him for the national hero Antenor and, in fact, built an aedicule, that is, a tomb, and there he was reburied with all honors. The stone monument is decorated with two quatrains in Latin, written by the poet Lovati, who “thought out” this legend. Later, this monument was erected in different squares of the city, until it ended up where it stands today, and in the middle of the last century, Lovat’s grave was moved there. By the way, the legend turned out to be groundless when, at the end of the 20th century, the remains from the lead coffin were checked in the laboratory and it was found out that this was not a Trojan prince, but only a Hungarian warrior who died in the 9th century. But the faith of the residents in the wonderful founding ruler is already difficult to break, and it’s more convenient this way.
Address: Via San Francesco, 15
This is how mysterious Padua is!
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