Padua art and culture
PADUA: ART AND CULTURE
Padua is a city rich in Art and Culture that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Padua is also a religious tourism destination. It is known internationally as the city of St. Anthony, a famous Portuguese Franciscan who spent part of his life in Padua, where he died in 1231. The Saint’s remains are preserved inside the Basilica of St. Anthony, which is why countless pilgrimages from all over the world take place there.
Padua’s international fame is mainly linked to many places of historical, artistic and religious interest. Below you will find the main points of interest to visit during your stay in Padua.
Prato della Valle
Prato della Valle is one of the largest squares in Europe. Extraordinarily beautiful, it is characterised by a central green island where you can walk and admire the marvellous statues surrounding the canal. Do not miss the Saturday Market and the Antiques Market every third Sunday of the month!
Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua
The Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua, also known as “the Saint”, is one of the most representative places in Padua with a huge international appeal, especially for religious tourism. It is located just a few steps from the Prato della Valle and is definitely a must-see.
The Scrovegni Chapel in Padua
The Scrovegni Chapel in Padua is located inside the Roman amphitheatre of Padua. Inside you can admire Giotto’s best preserved masterpieces in the world. In some periods of the year, you can visit the Chapel in the evening.
Botanical garden in Padua
In Padua you will find the oldest university Botanical Garden in the world, with over 6,000 specimens. For further information: https://www.ortobotanicopd.it/
The Palazzo della Ragione
The Palazzo della Ragione in Padua, also known as “il Salòn”, is located in the historic centre between Piazza della Frutta and Piazza delle Erbe. It was the former seat of the city courts of Padua and the covered market.
Piazza dei Signori
It is a wonderful square in the centre of Padua where you can admire the famous Clock Tower and the Astronomical Clock of Padua.
Piazza delle Erbe and della Frutta
The two squares of Padua, Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza della Frutta, are located in the historic centre and run along the beautiful Palazzo della Ragione. One of the largest markets in Italy takes place in these very characteristic squares. They are wonderful to visit either in the morning when the markets are bustling with activities or in the evening to have a typical aperitif in the Square!
Palazzo Zabarella
Palazzo Zabarella was once the home of a noble family and now is the venue for important exhibitions of international attraction.
The Crystal Garden
The Crystal Garden in Padua is considered a Botanical treasure Casket in the Parco d’Europa. It has a steel and glass structure inside which you will find the city’s collection of succulent plants.
Cathedral and Baptistery
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, also called the Cathedral of Padua, is the main Catholic place of worship in Padua and is located in the city centre just a few steps from Piazza dei Signori.
Palazzo del Bo and the Anatomical Theatre
Seat of the ancient University of Padua since 1493. The Anatomical Theatre, which is said to be the oldest in the world, is also located here. This building stands in the historic centre between the famous Caffè Pedrocchi and the Town Hall.
City Sightseeing Tour
A convenient way to visit Padua is on board the famous Hop On Hop Off buses or by City Sightseeing boat. You can admire the historical walls surrounding Padua, the ancient bridges and the countless artistic and cultural attractions of Padua. For further information: https://www.city-sightseeing.it/it/padova/