Padua (Padova) is a commune located in the Veneto region of Northeastern Italy - Although often considered part of the larger metropolitan area of Venice and Treviso, Padua has a different history and is an important city. since the Middle Ages.
Located on the Bacchiglione River, Padua lies approximately 25 miles to the west of Venice and has a current population of 214,000. This city is extremely beautiful and features a plethora of charming architecture, bridges crossing the river, and also the important University of Padua which once played host to the legendary Galileo. Records actually show that Padua is one of the oldest established cities in Northern Italy and it has seen some form of settlement since 1183 BC. Throughout the subsequent years, Padua was invaded by various factions including the Huns and Goths.
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1. Basilica di Sant’Antonio
This immense, many domed basilicas is undoubtedly the highlight of Padua and it stands out for everyone to see in the center of the historic old town. Originally constructed in the 1200s, the basilica features a myriad of different architectural styles and is listed as one of the international shrines of the Holy See.
At the front, several archways and intricate details frame the main doorway, but the side is the real treat – 8 different domes stand out above the walls together with a series of delightful towers.
Inside, the detail is simply awe-inspiring – frescos and beautifully colored artwork cover literally every inch of the basilica together with various gold trimmings and marble sculptures.
Furthermore, there are also several chapels that feature beautiful Renaissance artwork from artists such as De Zevio.
2. Piazza dei Signori
One of the main squares in historic Padua, the Piazza dei Signori serves as one of the central gathering places in the city and has historically held civic celebrations and tournaments.
Created in the 14th century, the square was built around the famous clock tower and it is filled with Medieval and Renaissance details.
At one end of the square sits the Chiesa di San Clemente and at the other the Torre Dell’Orologio (Clock Tower). Lining the square is a series of houses, restaurants, shops, and cafes and at one end sits the beautiful Marciana column.
This square also plays host to regular markets and events so there is a chance that you may experience some authentic Italian culture and local life too.
3. Padua Duomo
Although the exterior of the Basilica di Sant Antonio might outclass the Padua Duomo, this church is actually the main Chiesa of the city and it has a simply sublime interior. Located in Du Du's self-appointed square, the Church was originally created in 1117 but was destroyed by an earthquake.
Inside the Duomo, the whitewashed walls created a high contrast to the blue and red patterned marble floor and the many arches and columns create a pleasing effect.
4. Cappella Degli Scrovegni
Located in the pleasant Giardini dell SoonArena, Cappella Degli Scrovegni is a truly monumental church and famous for its amazing inner frescoes. The exterior of this church is quite small, and if you are not aware of its historical importance, you can simply overcome it.
Created in 1305, the interior was designed by the famous Giotto who was responsible for the design of the Florence Campanile. Practically every available wall space is packed full with various religious depictions and displays a burst of color.
Split into several different sections, the frescos represent general stories from the bible, the life of Christ, and the vices and virtues of man. Considered a true masterpiece, the detail and color still present today is fantastic and this is one piece of Paduan art you cannot miss out on.
5. Palazzo Della Ragione
This immense town hall sits in the center of the Piazza Della Frutta and is considered an icon of the city of Padua. It is reported to have the largest unsupported roof in Europe and it boasts the past power and influence that Padua had.
Created between 1172 and 1219, the town hall has stood for hundreds of years and has been a central point for various civic ceremonies and legal courts. Inside the hall is an expansive, richly decorated room with a series of colorful frescoes created by Nicolo Miretto and Stefano da Ferrara.
Hundreds of individual frescos line the walls and depict various allegorical stories and historical events.
6. Orto Botanico
This small botanical garden is truly captivating and contains a plethora of interesting plants, vegetation, herbs, and trees. Created in 1545, it is one of the oldest gardens still in existence and originally served as a learning center for the university students.
At one end of the garden is a series of modern greenhouses that contain a myriad of different plant species, whilst at the other is a typical nursery garden that is laid out in a circular shape and annexed into many small charming sections. If you love plants and the natural world, the Orto Botanico will prove to be a true treat.
7. Prato Della Valle
Standing at a colossal 90,000 square meter, the Prato Della Valle is the largest square in Italy and also in Europe. This is one of the most important areas of Padua and the locals simply love the open space and the design of the square.
Whilst called a Piazza, the square is actually oval and features a circular water feature that is surrounded by a series of 90 statues depicting various important figures in the history of Padua.
Four bridges cross the water and lead you into the central section that contains a water fountain. Come here to admire the design and scale of the square, but also to relax under the shade of the trees or sunbath on the well-manicured lawns.
8. Brenta Canal
The Brenta Canal stretches for many miles between Chioggia on the coast, to Padua where it turns back into the Brenta River. Created in the 15th century, the canal was meant to expand trading routes and possibilities for Venice and the major cities in Northern Italy.
Real boat trips are available on this impressive waterway that takes you from Padua to Venice and vice versa. On the way, you will see a variety of beautiful houses, stately homes, and villas such as Villa Foscari and Villa Pisani.
Furthermore, the natural scenery is truly amazing and as you pass out towards Venice you will see the odd small village scattered around the banks of the canal.
9. Musei Civici
This museum and historic building is located in Giardini dell HayArena and has two great museums and Cappella Degli Scrovegini. Included in the art galleries are great paintings by famous Renaissance artists including Titia, Giotto, Bellini, and Veronese.
The collection is considered one of the finest examples of Venetian art between the 12th and 19th centuries in Italy. Aside from the artwork, there is also a collection of historical artifacts from various eras including pre-Roman, ancient Greek and Etruscan. Each exhibit is wonderfully displayed and contains multimedia features too.
10. Giardini dell’Arena
Located in the northern part of the old town of Padua, the Giardini dell’Arena is a pleasant place to explore and relax. It is advised to combine a visit to the Capella degli Scrovegni and the Musei Civici together with a gentle stroll through the park and along the banks of the northern canal.
The grounds of the park are beautiful with many shaded areas covered by luscious trees and plants, furthermore, there are several footpaths that wind through the grounds to create a pleasant walking trail. This truly is a pleasant place to spend some time and take a break from sight-seeing.
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