Padova
Padua (Padova) is a large town (population 210,000) in the Veneto region in north-eastern Italy. Successful modern business exists alongside unspoilt historical sights, and there's lots for the visitor to do. There are some troubled housing areas in the outskirts, but these don't impinge on the tourist's experience.
Getting to Padua
If you are travelling by train, you'll arrive just north of the town centre. Leaving the railway station, take care not to get run over; what appears to be a pedestrianised forecourt is also a taxi lane. In fact, pedestrians need to be alert throughout the city centre; cyclists are a very real hazard. Pay a visit to the tourist information office next to the station if you want to pick up a map or leaflets. There are bus stops outside where you can catch a bus into the centre - buy a ticket before boarding, unless you already have your PadovaCard. However, it's not a long walk to the heart of town. The Scrovegni Chapel and Civic Museums are between the railway station and the centre. To walk there, take the main street opposite the station and keep straight on. Just after a pretty park you'll come to the Civic Museums. The entrance is a short way down a side-street. Alongside is Padua's Roman arena, now grassy ruins.
Attractions
Basilica of Saint'Antonio
This immense, many domed basilica is undoubtedly the highlight of Padua and it stands out for everyone to see, Originally constructed in the 1200's, the basilica features a different architectural styles and is listed as one of the international shrines.
This immense, many domed basilica is undoubtedly the highlight of Padua and it stands out for everyone to see, Originally constructed in the 1200's, the basilica features a different architectural styles and is listed as one of the international shrines.
Cappella degli Scrovegni
The outside of this church is quite understated, and if you were unaware of its historical importance, you may simply pass it by. 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 display a burst of colour. Split into several different sections, the frescos represent general stories from the bible, the life of Christ, and the vices and virtues of man.
The outside of this church is quite understated, and if you were unaware of its historical importance, you may simply pass it by. 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 display a burst of colour. Split into several different sections, the frescos represent general stories from the bible, the life of Christ, and the vices and virtues of man.
Botanical Garden
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 centre for the university students.
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 centre for the university students.
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.
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.