2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:36
Pagina A
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Este
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nd
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Discover
Padua and its
surroundings.
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:36
Pagina 2
Discover Padua and its province.
“Antenor, from the midst of Grecian hosts,
Could pass secure, and pierce th' Illyrian coasts,
Where, rolling down the steep, Timavus raves
And thro' nine channels disembogues his waves.
At length he founded Padua's happy seat,
And gave his Trojans a secure retreat;
There fix'd their arms, and there renew'd their name,
And there in quiet rules, and crown'd with fame.”
Virgil, Aeneid, I, 242-249
A land of History,
Art, Spas and Nature.
Padua is one of the most charming and dynamic cities
in Italy. The city centre boasts a wealth of fine medieval,
renaissance and modern architecture; here a fascinating mix
of historic and new, of centuries-old traditions combined
with metropolitan rhythms creates a unique atmosphere.
The medieval palaces, churches and cobbled streets emanate
a sense of history and culture, the shops, markets
and locals, a sparkling vitality and vibrant modern life.
Old map of Padua
The province of Padua has a vast cultural and artistic
heritage and great natural assets. One has only to think
of the Euganean Hills’ rich flora and history, of the countless
villas and castles scattered all over the area, of the medieval
walled towns, of the world famous Euganean spas, of the
medieval monasteries and abbeys, of the old farm houses
surrounded by wide expanses of fields, of the network of
rivers, streams and canals leading to the Venetian lagoon,
a portion of which belongs to the province of Padua.
Palazzo Bo, Old Courtyard
Below, Prato della Valle and Basilica of St. Giustina
3000 years of history.
The Greek poet Virgil celebrates with these verses the legend
that speaks of Antenor as the mythical founder of Padua. The
historical Padua was actually founded over 3000 years ago,
during the Paleoveneti age, when the old Veneti people were
famous thanks to their excellent breed of horses. In the year 45
b.C. the town became a Roman Municipium. Thanks to thriving
commerce, fruitful land and abundance of waterways, Patavium
was one of the most important and powerful centres of the
Roman Empire. During the Barbarian invasions the town was
razed to the ground by command of Langobard king Agilulf
(601 A.D.) It was only after the year 1000 that Padua registered
an important growth in wealth and power, and new imposing
religious and civil buildings, such as the Cathedral, the
Commune Palaces, towers and defensive walls were built. The
13th and the 14th century marked a period of extraordinary
economic and cultural liveliness and ardour, which left great
evidences in town: the medioaeval walls, the foundation of the
University, the Ragione Palace, the Basilica of st. Anthony and
many others. The Trecento, historically characterized by the
ruling of the Seigneury of the Da Carrara family, is considered
Padua Golden Age: the art panorama was dominated by Giotto
and his followers and the city was the most important centre
of artistic production in medieval Europe. In 1405 the
Da Carrara Seigneury terminated and Padua passed under
Venetian rule. Venice fortified Padua with new walls, increased
the power of the University, and the venetian nobility invested
their capitals on the paduan land, where beautiful villas
were erected. The decadence of the Serenissima (1797) and the
upcoming of the Napoleonic imperialism put an end to one
of the most extraordinary historical, artistical and cultural ages
of Europe. The French and the Austrian dominations, and
the two World Wars produced a long period of economic and
cultural standstill, from which Padua, as the rest of Veneto,
recovered with a new and reinforced conscioussness starting
from the second half of the 20th century. Today Padua is one
of the main economic centres of Veneto and of Italy,
an important motorway, railway and waterway junction, which
connects Italy with the rest of Europe, and last but not least
a beautiful city of art and culture.
Piazza delle Erbe
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:36
Pagina 2
Discover Padua and its province.
“Antenor, from the midst of Grecian hosts,
Could pass secure, and pierce th' Illyrian coasts,
Where, rolling down the steep, Timavus raves
And thro' nine channels disembogues his waves.
At length he founded Padua's happy seat,
And gave his Trojans a secure retreat;
There fix'd their arms, and there renew'd their name,
And there in quiet rules, and crown'd with fame.”
Virgil, Aeneid, I, 242-249
A land of History,
Art, Spas and Nature.
Padua is one of the most charming and dynamic cities
in Italy. The city centre boasts a wealth of fine medieval,
renaissance and modern architecture; here a fascinating mix
of historic and new, of centuries-old traditions combined
with metropolitan rhythms creates a unique atmosphere.
The medieval palaces, churches and cobbled streets emanate
a sense of history and culture, the shops, markets
and locals, a sparkling vitality and vibrant modern life.
Old map of Padua
The province of Padua has a vast cultural and artistic
heritage and great natural assets. One has only to think
of the Euganean Hills’ rich flora and history, of the countless
villas and castles scattered all over the area, of the medieval
walled towns, of the world famous Euganean spas, of the
medieval monasteries and abbeys, of the old farm houses
surrounded by wide expanses of fields, of the network of
rivers, streams and canals leading to the Venetian lagoon,
a portion of which belongs to the province of Padua.
Palazzo Bo, Old Courtyard
Below, Prato della Valle and Basilica of St. Giustina
3000 years of history.
The Greek poet Virgil celebrates with these verses the legend
that speaks of Antenor as the mythical founder of Padua. The
historical Padua was actually founded over 3000 years ago,
during the Paleoveneti age, when the old Veneti people were
famous thanks to their excellent breed of horses. In the year 45
b.C. the town became a Roman Municipium. Thanks to thriving
commerce, fruitful land and abundance of waterways, Patavium
was one of the most important and powerful centres of the
Roman Empire. During the Barbarian invasions the town was
razed to the ground by command of Langobard king Agilulf
(601 A.D.) It was only after the year 1000 that Padua registered
an important growth in wealth and power, and new imposing
religious and civil buildings, such as the Cathedral, the
Commune Palaces, towers and defensive walls were built. The
13th and the 14th century marked a period of extraordinary
economic and cultural liveliness and ardour, which left great
evidences in town: the medioaeval walls, the foundation of the
University, the Ragione Palace, the Basilica of st. Anthony and
many others. The Trecento, historically characterized by the
ruling of the Seigneury of the Da Carrara family, is considered
Padua Golden Age: the art panorama was dominated by Giotto
and his followers and the city was the most important centre
of artistic production in medieval Europe. In 1405 the
Da Carrara Seigneury terminated and Padua passed under
Venetian rule. Venice fortified Padua with new walls, increased
the power of the University, and the venetian nobility invested
their capitals on the paduan land, where beautiful villas
were erected. The decadence of the Serenissima (1797) and the
upcoming of the Napoleonic imperialism put an end to one
of the most extraordinary historical, artistical and cultural ages
of Europe. The French and the Austrian dominations, and
the two World Wars produced a long period of economic and
cultural standstill, from which Padua, as the rest of Veneto,
recovered with a new and reinforced conscioussness starting
from the second half of the 20th century. Today Padua is one
of the main economic centres of Veneto and of Italy,
an important motorway, railway and waterway junction, which
connects Italy with the rest of Europe, and last but not least
a beautiful city of art and culture.
Piazza delle Erbe
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:37
Pagina 4
The classic itinerary.
The medieval heart.
Basilica of St. Anthony
and Prato della Valle.
Over three thousand years of history have left a wealth of
historical buildings and places. Combining the old and the
modern, great art and beautiful artifacts, the city centre is
full of surprises.
The classic itinerary touches three areas, which enclose the
symbols of Padua history.
The historic centre of Padua is dominated by the imposing
Palazzo della Ragione, which was built in the year 1218
to host the court of justice on the upper floor, and various
shops on the ground floor. The vast hall, called il Salone
(the great Hall), is one of the largest medieval hanging halls
of the world and its walls are covered by 15th c. paintings
depicting the zodiac and the astrological theories of Pietro
d’Abano, one of the greatest medieval scientists. The three
squares surrounding the palace - Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza
della Frutta and Piazza dei Signori - are the site of Padua’s
daily market, which has been taking place here for more
than 800 years. The squares are lined by bars, restaurants,
shops and historical buildings.
Piazza dei Signori is a gentle Renaissance square closed
westwards by the white façade of the Capitanio Palace
and the beautiful Clock Tower. Closeby is Padua’s Cathedral,
a 16th century building which keeps one of the delights
of the town: a Romanesque baptistery with 14th century
frescoes by Giusto de Menabuoi.
The adjacent Bishop Palace Museum displays precious works
of art, including paintings, manuscripts, jewellery, sculptures,
and allows visitors to admire the magnificent Bishops Hall.
From here, following the suggestive narrow streets of the old
ghetto, the itinerary leads back to the area of the City Hall
(16th c.). The palace faces Palazzo Bo, the historical seat
of Padua University, and is closed northwards by the Caffè
Pedrocchi (1831), one of the most famous historical cafès
in Italy and prestigious venue for cultural events.
The third great monumental area develops around St.
Anthony’s Basilica, locally simply called Il Santo, which holds
the mortal remains of Saint Anthony. The great sanctuary, a
real shrine of art and devotion, is surrounded by an impressive
number of monuments: the equestrian statue of Gattamelata
by Donatello, St. George’s Oratory, the Scuola del Santo with
Titian frescoes, the Antonian Museum and the Renaissance
complex of Loggia and Odeo Cornaro. A short distance away
you can visit the University Botanical Garden, one of oldest
in the world. A little to the south sprawls the Prato della Valle,
one of the largest town squares in Europe, surrounded by the
waters of the Alicorno canal and decorated by a double order
1
2
The Museum Complex
around the Roman Arena.
Around the Roman Arena (1st c. AD) and the adjacent
Eremitani Square is a concentrated true museum complex.
The most outstanding monument is the Scrovegni Chapel,
which was magnificently decorated by Giotto at the beginning
of the 14th century, and is universally considered one of the
greatest art masterpieces of all time. In the nearby Eremitani
Museum the history of Padua is narrated through pre-Roman,
Roman and Etruscan archaeological findings and rich art
collections, which are housed in the peaceful rooms and
cloisters of the former Hermits monastery. The adjacent
Eremitani Church keeps 14th century frescoes and the famous
remains of the Ovetari Chapel decorated
by Mantegna’s frescoes.
The museum complex
is completed by the
Museum of Applied
and Decorative Arts
and the Bottacin
Collection at Palazzo
Zuckermann
and the University
Scientific Museums,
which are housed inside
Palazzo Cavalli.
3
4
1 Scrovegni Chapel
2 Caffè Pedrocchi
3 Basilica of St. Giustina, Madonna and Child
4
of statues. The square is lined by ancient palaces and churches.
On the northern side is Palazzo Angeli which hosts
the delightful Museum of the Magic Lantern and Pre Cinema.
On the opposite side is the 16th century Basilica di Santa
Giustina, which keeps the mortal remains of saints and martyrs
of Christianity: St. Giustina, one of the first Christian martyrs,
St. Luke the Evangelist, St. Mattia, and many others.
4 Donatello’s monument to Gattamelata
5 View of Padua, the domes
of the Basilica of St. Anthony
6 Prato della Valle, antiques market
5
6
7 Basilica of St. Anthony,
Donatello’s altar
Below, view of Padua,
Palazzo della Ragione
7
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:37
Pagina 4
The classic itinerary.
The medieval heart.
Basilica of St. Anthony
and Prato della Valle.
Over three thousand years of history have left a wealth of
historical buildings and places. Combining the old and the
modern, great art and beautiful artifacts, the city centre is
full of surprises.
The classic itinerary touches three areas, which enclose the
symbols of Padua history.
The historic centre of Padua is dominated by the imposing
Palazzo della Ragione, which was built in the year 1218
to host the court of justice on the upper floor, and various
shops on the ground floor. The vast hall, called il Salone
(the great Hall), is one of the largest medieval hanging halls
of the world and its walls are covered by 15th c. paintings
depicting the zodiac and the astrological theories of Pietro
d’Abano, one of the greatest medieval scientists. The three
squares surrounding the palace - Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza
della Frutta and Piazza dei Signori - are the site of Padua’s
daily market, which has been taking place here for more
than 800 years. The squares are lined by bars, restaurants,
shops and historical buildings.
Piazza dei Signori is a gentle Renaissance square closed
westwards by the white façade of the Capitanio Palace
and the beautiful Clock Tower. Closeby is Padua’s Cathedral,
a 16th century building which keeps one of the delights
of the town: a Romanesque baptistery with 14th century
frescoes by Giusto de Menabuoi.
The adjacent Bishop Palace Museum displays precious works
of art, including paintings, manuscripts, jewellery, sculptures,
and allows visitors to admire the magnificent Bishops Hall.
From here, following the suggestive narrow streets of the old
ghetto, the itinerary leads back to the area of the City Hall
(16th c.). The palace faces Palazzo Bo, the historical seat
of Padua University, and is closed northwards by the Caffè
Pedrocchi (1831), one of the most famous historical cafès
in Italy and prestigious venue for cultural events.
The third great monumental area develops around St.
Anthony’s Basilica, locally simply called Il Santo, which holds
the mortal remains of Saint Anthony. The great sanctuary, a
real shrine of art and devotion, is surrounded by an impressive
number of monuments: the equestrian statue of Gattamelata
by Donatello, St. George’s Oratory, the Scuola del Santo with
Titian frescoes, the Antonian Museum and the Renaissance
complex of Loggia and Odeo Cornaro. A short distance away
you can visit the University Botanical Garden, one of oldest
in the world. A little to the south sprawls the Prato della Valle,
one of the largest town squares in Europe, surrounded by the
waters of the Alicorno canal and decorated by a double order
1
2
The Museum Complex
around the Roman Arena.
Around the Roman Arena (1st c. AD) and the adjacent
Eremitani Square is a concentrated true museum complex.
The most outstanding monument is the Scrovegni Chapel,
which was magnificently decorated by Giotto at the beginning
of the 14th century, and is universally considered one of the
greatest art masterpieces of all time. In the nearby Eremitani
Museum the history of Padua is narrated through pre-Roman,
Roman and Etruscan archaeological findings and rich art
collections, which are housed in the peaceful rooms and
cloisters of the former Hermits monastery. The adjacent
Eremitani Church keeps 14th century frescoes and the famous
remains of the Ovetari Chapel decorated
by Mantegna’s frescoes.
The museum complex
is completed by the
Museum of Applied
and Decorative Arts
and the Bottacin
Collection at Palazzo
Zuckermann
and the University
Scientific Museums,
which are housed inside
Palazzo Cavalli.
3
4
1 Scrovegni Chapel
2 Caffè Pedrocchi
3 Basilica of St. Giustina, Madonna and Child
4
of statues. The square is lined by ancient palaces and churches.
On the northern side is Palazzo Angeli which hosts
the delightful Museum of the Magic Lantern and Pre Cinema.
On the opposite side is the 16th century Basilica di Santa
Giustina, which keeps the mortal remains of saints and martyrs
of Christianity: St. Giustina, one of the first Christian martyrs,
St. Luke the Evangelist, St. Mattia, and many others.
4 Donatello’s monument to Gattamelata
5 View of Padua, the domes
of the Basilica of St. Anthony
6 Prato della Valle, antiques market
5
6
7 Basilica of St. Anthony,
Donatello’s altar
Below, view of Padua,
Palazzo della Ragione
7
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:37
Pagina 6
Padua: City of frescoes.
Padua keeps kilometres of frescoed walls, where light and
colour give life to extraordinary illustrated stories.
It was Giotto, in the first years of the Trecento, to give
impulse to fresco decoration, narrative painting
and monumental cycles.
Throughout the century
all the most important
monuments of the town
were decorated with
beautiful cycles
of frescoes so vast
and so numerous as
to be found in only very
few other Italian centres.
The cycle inside the
Scrovegni Chapel
(1303-1305) is considered
the greatest masterpiece
of forteenth century
Italian and European
painting.
1
Under a blue, starry heaven, panel after panel, it illustrates
the life of Mary, the life of Jesus and the story of the
Passion to end with the imposing vision of the Last
Judgement. The lesson of the Tuscan master was taken
over by the most eminent painters working in town in the
second half of the 14th century, Guariento, Jacopo Avanzi,
Altichiero da Zevio, Giusto de Menabuoi and Jacopo
da Verona, who developed and reinterpreted Giotto’s style
and tecnique. Their style and skill can be admired in all
the most important civil and religious monuments
of Padua: fourteenth-century frescoes are in the Basilica
of St. Anthony, in the Eremitani Church, in the Baptistery
of the Cathedral, in St George’s Oratory and in St.
Michele’s Oratory and in the Accademia Galileiana (former
Carraresi Chapel). The walls of the vast main Hall
of the Palazzo della Ragione (mt.81x27) are entirely covered
with a superb astrological cycle. And so is the enchanting
Bishops’ Hall in the Bishop Palace, which is adorned by
the portraits of hundreds of Paduan bishops.
2
3
4
5
1 Basilica of St. Anthony, Altichiero
da Zevio’s frescoes (detail)
2 Scrovegni Chapel, Giotto’s frescoes;
Presentation of Mary in the Temple
3 Scrovegni Chapel
4 Scrovegni Chapel,
Meeting of St Anne and Joachim
5 Diocesan Museum and Bishop’s Palace,
The Bishops’ Hall
6
7
6 Padua Cathedral’s
Baptistery, Giusto
de Menabuoi’s frescoes
7 Scuola del Santo, Titian,
The jealous husband
stabs his wife
8 Basilica of St. Anthony,
Giusto de’ Menabuoi’s
frescoes (detail)
9 Palazzo della Ragione,
the Salone (detail)
8
Mantegna’s frescoes, even though badly damaged during
World War II can be admired
in the Ovetari chapel inside
the Eremitani Church.
Colourful sixteeenthcentury frescoes
decorate various
oratories, churches
and palaces: discover
Titian’s frescoes in
the Scuola del Santo,
Dario Varotari’s cycle
in the Scuola della Carità,
16th century frescoes
by Girolamo del Santo,
Domenico Campagnola
and Stefano dall’Arzere in the Scoletta
del Carmine and in St. Rocco’s Oratory,
and the forty-four heroes adorning the Giants’ Hall.
9
7
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:37
Pagina 6
Padua: City of frescoes.
Padua keeps kilometres of frescoed walls, where light and
colour give life to extraordinary illustrated stories.
It was Giotto, in the first years of the Trecento, to give
impulse to fresco decoration, narrative painting
and monumental cycles.
Throughout the century
all the most important
monuments of the town
were decorated with
beautiful cycles
of frescoes so vast
and so numerous as
to be found in only very
few other Italian centres.
The cycle inside the
Scrovegni Chapel
(1303-1305) is considered
the greatest masterpiece
of forteenth century
Italian and European
painting.
1
Under a blue, starry heaven, panel after panel, it illustrates
the life of Mary, the life of Jesus and the story of the
Passion to end with the imposing vision of the Last
Judgement. The lesson of the Tuscan master was taken
over by the most eminent painters working in town in the
second half of the 14th century, Guariento, Jacopo Avanzi,
Altichiero da Zevio, Giusto de Menabuoi and Jacopo
da Verona, who developed and reinterpreted Giotto’s style
and tecnique. Their style and skill can be admired in all
the most important civil and religious monuments
of Padua: fourteenth-century frescoes are in the Basilica
of St. Anthony, in the Eremitani Church, in the Baptistery
of the Cathedral, in St George’s Oratory and in St.
Michele’s Oratory and in the Accademia Galileiana (former
Carraresi Chapel). The walls of the vast main Hall
of the Palazzo della Ragione (mt.81x27) are entirely covered
with a superb astrological cycle. And so is the enchanting
Bishops’ Hall in the Bishop Palace, which is adorned by
the portraits of hundreds of Paduan bishops.
2
3
4
5
1 Basilica of St. Anthony, Altichiero
da Zevio’s frescoes (detail)
2 Scrovegni Chapel, Giotto’s frescoes;
Presentation of Mary in the Temple
3 Scrovegni Chapel
4 Scrovegni Chapel,
Meeting of St Anne and Joachim
5 Diocesan Museum and Bishop’s Palace,
The Bishops’ Hall
6
7
6 Padua Cathedral’s
Baptistery, Giusto
de Menabuoi’s frescoes
7 Scuola del Santo, Titian,
The jealous husband
stabs his wife
8 Basilica of St. Anthony,
Giusto de’ Menabuoi’s
frescoes (detail)
9 Palazzo della Ragione,
the Salone (detail)
8
Mantegna’s frescoes, even though badly damaged during
World War II can be admired
in the Ovetari chapel inside
the Eremitani Church.
Colourful sixteeenthcentury frescoes
decorate various
oratories, churches
and palaces: discover
Titian’s frescoes in
the Scuola del Santo,
Dario Varotari’s cycle
in the Scuola della Carità,
16th century frescoes
by Girolamo del Santo,
Domenico Campagnola
and Stefano dall’Arzere in the Scoletta
del Carmine and in St. Rocco’s Oratory,
and the forty-four heroes adorning the Giants’ Hall.
9
7
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:37
Pagina 8
Padua: City of science and culture.
of arms, the statue of Elena Lucrezia Cornaro Piscopia,
the world’s first female graduate (1678). The Botanic
Garden is another scientific treasure. It was founded in
1545 by Padua University for the study of the ‘simples’,
i.e. medical plants. It is the oldest university botanical
garden in the world, which has never moved from
its original settlement. It keeps about 6000 plants:
exotic, medicinal, poisonous and insectivorous.
Padua is the ideal place to trace the history of man’s
progress and achievements in the field of science,
technique and creativity. In its ancient and glorious
University fundamental contributions to the progress
of science and technology have been made thanks
to the presence of enlightened and ingenious personalities.
The University of Padua, which was established in 1222,
is one of the oldest in the world (the second in Italy after
Bologna University) and keeps several places of great
historical value: the anatomy theatre (1594), which
is the oldest in the world, the 14th century Medicine
room, Galilei’s chair, the Aula Magna and the 16th century
old cloister, both decorated by students and professors’ coats
The oldest tree here is a Palm planted in 1585
and known as Goethe’s palm, having supposedly played
a role in the German writer’s work on the Metamorphosis
of the plants. Since 1997 the garden is part
of the Unesco World Cultural Heritage.
Another scientific monument belonging to Padua
University is the astronomic observatory, called
La Specola. It was built in the 18th century on a tower
belonging to Padua medieval castle to test the astronomic
theories elaborated at the University. Today it houses
the University Astronomy Department and a museum,
where various scientific instruments coming from
different countries are displayed. Many other University
museums reveal the continuing influence of this ancient
institution on world art and culture: the Geological
and Paleonthological Museum, the Museum of Phisycs,
the Museum of Mineralogy, and many other institutes of
research and scientific studies.
4
By the year 2006 a new museum dedicated to the History
of Medicine and Health will be inaugurated inside the
15th-century complex of St. Francesco’s Hospital.
1
5
4 Astronomic Observatory,
La Specola Museum
5 Padua University,
Palazzo Bo, Sala dei Quaranta
and Galilei’s chair
6 Padua Botanic Garden
6
2
3
8
1 Padua University,
Palazzo Bo, Aula Magna
2 Museum of the Pre-Cinema
Minici Zotti Collection
3 Padua University,
Palazzo Bo, Anatomy Theatre
9
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:37
Pagina 8
Padua: City of science and culture.
of arms, the statue of Elena Lucrezia Cornaro Piscopia,
the world’s first female graduate (1678). The Botanic
Garden is another scientific treasure. It was founded in
1545 by Padua University for the study of the ‘simples’,
i.e. medical plants. It is the oldest university botanical
garden in the world, which has never moved from
its original settlement. It keeps about 6000 plants:
exotic, medicinal, poisonous and insectivorous.
Padua is the ideal place to trace the history of man’s
progress and achievements in the field of science,
technique and creativity. In its ancient and glorious
University fundamental contributions to the progress
of science and technology have been made thanks
to the presence of enlightened and ingenious personalities.
The University of Padua, which was established in 1222,
is one of the oldest in the world (the second in Italy after
Bologna University) and keeps several places of great
historical value: the anatomy theatre (1594), which
is the oldest in the world, the 14th century Medicine
room, Galilei’s chair, the Aula Magna and the 16th century
old cloister, both decorated by students and professors’ coats
The oldest tree here is a Palm planted in 1585
and known as Goethe’s palm, having supposedly played
a role in the German writer’s work on the Metamorphosis
of the plants. Since 1997 the garden is part
of the Unesco World Cultural Heritage.
Another scientific monument belonging to Padua
University is the astronomic observatory, called
La Specola. It was built in the 18th century on a tower
belonging to Padua medieval castle to test the astronomic
theories elaborated at the University. Today it houses
the University Astronomy Department and a museum,
where various scientific instruments coming from
different countries are displayed. Many other University
museums reveal the continuing influence of this ancient
institution on world art and culture: the Geological
and Paleonthological Museum, the Museum of Phisycs,
the Museum of Mineralogy, and many other institutes of
research and scientific studies.
4
By the year 2006 a new museum dedicated to the History
of Medicine and Health will be inaugurated inside the
15th-century complex of St. Francesco’s Hospital.
1
5
4 Astronomic Observatory,
La Specola Museum
5 Padua University,
Palazzo Bo, Sala dei Quaranta
and Galilei’s chair
6 Padua Botanic Garden
6
2
3
8
1 Padua University,
Palazzo Bo, Aula Magna
2 Museum of the Pre-Cinema
Minici Zotti Collection
3 Padua University,
Palazzo Bo, Anatomy Theatre
9
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 10
Padua: a dynamic city.
1
Vital, creative and dynamic: the spirit
of Padua combines ancient charm,
millennary traditions and the vibrant
rhythms and vitality of the modern
metropolis. The city centre has been
transformed into a wide pedestrian
oasis, where streets and picturesque
squares are lined with historical
monuments, street cafés and
historical coffee-houses, music
bars and venues, bookshops,
high-fashion boutiques, antiques
and modern handicraft shops,
galleries, classy restaurants.
Historical buildings merge with
daring contemporary architecture, such
as Daniel Libeskind’s memorial “Memory
and light”. The brilliant American architect
of Polish origins, winner of the competition
for the reconstruction of Ground Zero
in New York, has left in Padua an uplifting
memorial, which contains a dramatic beam salvaged
from the World Trade Centre attack, given to the city
of Padua by the USA Department of State in memory
of the victims of the attack to the Twin Towers.
The so called Antico Ghetto with its suggestive
narrow streets lined with porticoed medieval palaces
and prestigious buildings has been recently transformed
into a trendy borough which encloses innovative shops
and locals, refined restaurants and old osterias.
The medieval squares – Piazza delle Erbe, della Frutta
and dei Signori - are the seat of the daily market
and have been representing one of the most beloved
meeting points of the Paduans for the last 800 years.
On Summer nights the colourful tables
and chair of bars and cafés cover these
squares, and open air music gently
accompany the servings of food
and drinks. The short and narrow
via St. Fermo and the nearby
Galleria Borromeo and Piazza
Insurrezione is an unrivalled
designer shopping borough,
where you will find all the most
famous Italian and foreign
fashion designers. Along the
streets leading from the University
to the Basilica of St. Anthony
you will find lots of ancient
and modern bookshops, food
and drink specialities. Imposing medieval
and Renaissance buildings face the old
streets, such as Palazzo Zabarella, one of
the most culturally vital and prestigious
venues of the city. Piazza del Santo and
the surrounding streets are the ideal area to find
a typical souvenir and take a picture of some of the
symbols of the city: the huge Basilica, Donatello’s
equestrian statue, Prato della Valle, the Botanic Garden
or the Museum of the Pre-Cinema, unique in its genre
in Italy. After having wandered through monuments,
attractions and shops take a break and relax at one
of the numerous restaurants or trattorias. Nowadays
you can find an exciting variety of flavours and dishes
in every Padua high street.
Almost all restaurants serve food based on traditional
Paduan or Venetian recipes but with a modern and
international twist. Ethnic-cuisine lovers will be spoilt
for choice as the city offers good quality foreign cuisine
from Mexican to Japanese, from Indian to Persian,
to name but a few. Cultural life is very vital, too.
This is refelected in the rich events calendar and
in the wide range of art venues, galleries, exhibition
halls and high quality collections.
4
3
2
10
1 Palazzo della Ragione, Loggia (detail)
2 Old Ghetto
3 Palazzo Moroni (City Hall) and Caffè Pedrocchi
Special events, celebrations of culture and festivals run
periodically throughout the year. Open air performances
take place in summer in all major parks and squares
of the city. In the last years the Paduans have
re-discovered the importance of the waterways which
surround the city, and recently there has been an
increasing development of boat tours. From March to
October sightseeing boat tours offer cruises and journeys,
which give the possibility to enjoy the view of the old
walls and of peculiar spots of the city at the leisurely
pace of river and canal boats. Thanks to the presence of
Padova Fiere (Padua Trade Exhibition Centre) and of the
University the congressual activity is very vital too.
5
6
Padua is an excellent
business destination
as the congress
system offers the
diverse range of
meeting venues
to ensure success.
Good infrastructures,
locations and
multifunctional
spaces, from stately
homes to the most
modern congress
halls: Padua has the right meeting-place for any event.
Culture, art, science, entertainment, shopping, good
cuisine, nightlife: whether you are wishing to stay one
day or for a longer holiday Padua will surprise you with
its oustanding variety of attractions.
4 Piazza delle Erbe, market
5 Prato della Valle
6 Memorial “Memory
and Light”, D. Libeskind
11
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 10
Padua: a dynamic city.
1
Vital, creative and dynamic: the spirit
of Padua combines ancient charm,
millennary traditions and the vibrant
rhythms and vitality of the modern
metropolis. The city centre has been
transformed into a wide pedestrian
oasis, where streets and picturesque
squares are lined with historical
monuments, street cafés and
historical coffee-houses, music
bars and venues, bookshops,
high-fashion boutiques, antiques
and modern handicraft shops,
galleries, classy restaurants.
Historical buildings merge with
daring contemporary architecture, such
as Daniel Libeskind’s memorial “Memory
and light”. The brilliant American architect
of Polish origins, winner of the competition
for the reconstruction of Ground Zero
in New York, has left in Padua an uplifting
memorial, which contains a dramatic beam salvaged
from the World Trade Centre attack, given to the city
of Padua by the USA Department of State in memory
of the victims of the attack to the Twin Towers.
The so called Antico Ghetto with its suggestive
narrow streets lined with porticoed medieval palaces
and prestigious buildings has been recently transformed
into a trendy borough which encloses innovative shops
and locals, refined restaurants and old osterias.
The medieval squares – Piazza delle Erbe, della Frutta
and dei Signori - are the seat of the daily market
and have been representing one of the most beloved
meeting points of the Paduans for the last 800 years.
On Summer nights the colourful tables
and chair of bars and cafés cover these
squares, and open air music gently
accompany the servings of food
and drinks. The short and narrow
via St. Fermo and the nearby
Galleria Borromeo and Piazza
Insurrezione is an unrivalled
designer shopping borough,
where you will find all the most
famous Italian and foreign
fashion designers. Along the
streets leading from the University
to the Basilica of St. Anthony
you will find lots of ancient
and modern bookshops, food
and drink specialities. Imposing medieval
and Renaissance buildings face the old
streets, such as Palazzo Zabarella, one of
the most culturally vital and prestigious
venues of the city. Piazza del Santo and
the surrounding streets are the ideal area to find
a typical souvenir and take a picture of some of the
symbols of the city: the huge Basilica, Donatello’s
equestrian statue, Prato della Valle, the Botanic Garden
or the Museum of the Pre-Cinema, unique in its genre
in Italy. After having wandered through monuments,
attractions and shops take a break and relax at one
of the numerous restaurants or trattorias. Nowadays
you can find an exciting variety of flavours and dishes
in every Padua high street.
Almost all restaurants serve food based on traditional
Paduan or Venetian recipes but with a modern and
international twist. Ethnic-cuisine lovers will be spoilt
for choice as the city offers good quality foreign cuisine
from Mexican to Japanese, from Indian to Persian,
to name but a few. Cultural life is very vital, too.
This is refelected in the rich events calendar and
in the wide range of art venues, galleries, exhibition
halls and high quality collections.
4
3
2
10
1 Palazzo della Ragione, Loggia (detail)
2 Old Ghetto
3 Palazzo Moroni (City Hall) and Caffè Pedrocchi
Special events, celebrations of culture and festivals run
periodically throughout the year. Open air performances
take place in summer in all major parks and squares
of the city. In the last years the Paduans have
re-discovered the importance of the waterways which
surround the city, and recently there has been an
increasing development of boat tours. From March to
October sightseeing boat tours offer cruises and journeys,
which give the possibility to enjoy the view of the old
walls and of peculiar spots of the city at the leisurely
pace of river and canal boats. Thanks to the presence of
Padova Fiere (Padua Trade Exhibition Centre) and of the
University the congressual activity is very vital too.
5
6
Padua is an excellent
business destination
as the congress
system offers the
diverse range of
meeting venues
to ensure success.
Good infrastructures,
locations and
multifunctional
spaces, from stately
homes to the most
modern congress
halls: Padua has the right meeting-place for any event.
Culture, art, science, entertainment, shopping, good
cuisine, nightlife: whether you are wishing to stay one
day or for a longer holiday Padua will surprise you with
its oustanding variety of attractions.
4 Piazza delle Erbe, market
5 Prato della Valle
6 Memorial “Memory
and Light”, D. Libeskind
11
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 12
A land of faith.
1
1 Basilica of St. Giustina
2 Basilica of St. Anthony
3 Basilica of St. Giustina,
Martyrs’Corridor
4 Duomo (Cathedral) and Baptistery
5 St. Nicolò’s Church
6 Eremitani Church, B. Ammannati,
Tomb of M. M. Benavides
7 Eremitani City Museum,
Guariento, Angels
4
Just few meters from the Basilica of St. Giustina
is the Basilica of St. Anthony, one of the major places
of Christian worship in the world, with about 5 million
pilgrims visiting it every year. An architectural masterpiece
of the 13th to 14th centuries, the Basilica also presents
a unique pageant of Paduan past history – the shrine
of St. Anthony, the tombs and memorials of famous people,
Religious heritage.
The early and wide diffusion of Christianity in the Paduan
territory is testified by the outstanding religious heritage,
which graces Padua and its province. A strong faith
combined with a great artistic fervour have left a great
number of sacred places and monuments all over
the territory, real and true shrines of faith and art.
Following the tradition the Basilica of St. Giustina
was built on the place where, Giustina, one of the first
martyrs of Christianity, was buried around the year 304.
The huge 16th century Basilica -the ninth largest
Christian church in the world-, contains elements
of an older church (12-13th c.), the martyrs’well,
with bones of varius martyrs, the Sacellum of San
Prosdocimo, which dates back to the 6th century,
thus representing one of the earliest places
of worship in town. The adjacent Benedictine
monastery with frescoed cloisters has a rich
library and a famous restoration book centre.
was commissioned by Fina Buzzaccarini, wife of the most
eminent 14th c. lord of Padua, Francesco il Vecchio da
Carrara: the hundreds of saints portraied on the dome
watched over Fina and Francesco’s tomb, once placed
exactly at the centre of the baptistery. Many other churches,
even though often less well-known, keep unexpected treasures:
the Eremitani Church has fine 14th century frescoes and the
famous Mantegna’s cycle in the Ovetari chapel, which was
badly damaged during WW2; in the Scoletta of the Basilica
del Carmine you can admire a colourful 16th century fresco
cycle; the church of St. Sofia is one of the most ancient
religious buildings of the town with great medieval architecture
2
3
6
5
7
>
and works of art realised between the 14th and the 20th
century, the most famous of which are the beautiful
14th century frescoes, the Renaissance marble bas-reliefs,
and Donatello’s bronze statues and reliefs on the main altar.
The complex of the Basilica comprises four cloisters,
the Antoniano Museum, St. George Oratory, which is decorated
by an enchanting 14th c. fresco cycle, and the Scuola del
Santo, adorned by various frescoes, three of which by Titian.
A ten-minute walk leads to the Sanctuary of St. Leopoldo
Mandic, which keeps the remains and the confessional cell
of the beloved Dalmatian saint. The historical part of the city
centre corresponds also to the heart of Christian Padua.
In Piazza Duomo stands the sixteenth-century Cathedral.
Its Baptistery represents one of the landmarks of Padua
history. The oldest part of the building dates back to the
12th century; inside, it is lined with beautiful fourteenth-century
frescoes by Giusto de’ Menabuoi, a follower of Giotto’s.
The breathtaking representation of the Paradise on the dome
13
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 12
A land of faith.
1
1 Basilica of St. Giustina
2 Basilica of St. Anthony
3 Basilica of St. Giustina,
Martyrs’Corridor
4 Duomo (Cathedral) and Baptistery
5 St. Nicolò’s Church
6 Eremitani Church, B. Ammannati,
Tomb of M. M. Benavides
7 Eremitani City Museum,
Guariento, Angels
4
Just few meters from the Basilica of St. Giustina
is the Basilica of St. Anthony, one of the major places
of Christian worship in the world, with about 5 million
pilgrims visiting it every year. An architectural masterpiece
of the 13th to 14th centuries, the Basilica also presents
a unique pageant of Paduan past history – the shrine
of St. Anthony, the tombs and memorials of famous people,
Religious heritage.
The early and wide diffusion of Christianity in the Paduan
territory is testified by the outstanding religious heritage,
which graces Padua and its province. A strong faith
combined with a great artistic fervour have left a great
number of sacred places and monuments all over
the territory, real and true shrines of faith and art.
Following the tradition the Basilica of St. Giustina
was built on the place where, Giustina, one of the first
martyrs of Christianity, was buried around the year 304.
The huge 16th century Basilica -the ninth largest
Christian church in the world-, contains elements
of an older church (12-13th c.), the martyrs’well,
with bones of varius martyrs, the Sacellum of San
Prosdocimo, which dates back to the 6th century,
thus representing one of the earliest places
of worship in town. The adjacent Benedictine
monastery with frescoed cloisters has a rich
library and a famous restoration book centre.
was commissioned by Fina Buzzaccarini, wife of the most
eminent 14th c. lord of Padua, Francesco il Vecchio da
Carrara: the hundreds of saints portraied on the dome
watched over Fina and Francesco’s tomb, once placed
exactly at the centre of the baptistery. Many other churches,
even though often less well-known, keep unexpected treasures:
the Eremitani Church has fine 14th century frescoes and the
famous Mantegna’s cycle in the Ovetari chapel, which was
badly damaged during WW2; in the Scoletta of the Basilica
del Carmine you can admire a colourful 16th century fresco
cycle; the church of St. Sofia is one of the most ancient
religious buildings of the town with great medieval architecture
2
3
6
5
7
>
and works of art realised between the 14th and the 20th
century, the most famous of which are the beautiful
14th century frescoes, the Renaissance marble bas-reliefs,
and Donatello’s bronze statues and reliefs on the main altar.
The complex of the Basilica comprises four cloisters,
the Antoniano Museum, St. George Oratory, which is decorated
by an enchanting 14th c. fresco cycle, and the Scuola del
Santo, adorned by various frescoes, three of which by Titian.
A ten-minute walk leads to the Sanctuary of St. Leopoldo
Mandic, which keeps the remains and the confessional cell
of the beloved Dalmatian saint. The historical part of the city
centre corresponds also to the heart of Christian Padua.
In Piazza Duomo stands the sixteenth-century Cathedral.
Its Baptistery represents one of the landmarks of Padua
history. The oldest part of the building dates back to the
12th century; inside, it is lined with beautiful fourteenth-century
frescoes by Giusto de’ Menabuoi, a follower of Giotto’s.
The breathtaking representation of the Paradise on the dome
13
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
outside and a very spiritual atmosphere inside; in the church
of St. Francesco 15th century frescoes and a Renaissance
bronze funeral monument are kept; the little Romanesque
church of St. Nicolò stands in one of the most lovely corners
of the town and keeps works by Jacopo da Montagnana,
Stefano dall’Arzere and Giandomenico Tiepolo. Few people
know that the 18th century composer Giuseppe Tartini, who
wrote the opera Il trillo del diavolo (Devil’s Trill Sonata)
is buried in the small church of St. Caterina; an unexpected
surprise awaits the visitor of the church of St. Massimo:
three beautiful paintings
by Giovan
Battista
Tiepolo (17th c.),
the painter
who
decorated
many Italian
villas, and
painted
the ceiling
frescoes in the
palace of the
Archbishop at Würzburg and the palace of Charles III
of Spain in Madrid. More recent masterpieces are the church
of St. Gaetano built on a plan of Vincenzo Scamozzi (16th c.)
and the church of Santa Maria del Pianto, called Chiesa del
Torresino, for the central embattled tower. Another ancient
church is the Oratory of St. Michele in Pozzoveggiani, which
is the result of the juxtaposition of a Romanesque building
on an early-medieval one. The church of St. Anthony
at Arcella is the place where the saint died in 1231.
2
1 Monteortone of Abano Terme, Madonna della Salute Sanctuary
2 Padua, St. Michele’s Church at Pozzoveggiani
Below, Praglia Abbey
Pagina 14
1
The province of Padua is rich in religious buildings and
monuments too. The coenobia of the monastic orders have
been peaceful retreats for scholars, chief centres of Christian
piety and learning for centuries. A visit to these religious
sites is a great experience for those who enjoy the sense
of somewhere different, very spiritual and peaceful.
Embedded in the greenery of the Euganean Hills, the
Benedictine Abbey of Santa Maria di Praglia is one of the
oldest monasteries of the region. It was founded in the 11thcentury but almost entirely rebuilt in the 15th century, when
the abbey became one of the main centres for land reclamation
and conversion into farmland of the whole Paduan territory.
The wide complex includes a fine Renaissance church
(1448) with frescoes and paintings of Venetian school,
and a crucifix attributed to the followers of Giotto’s,
the medieval monastery with ancient refectory and guest
house, cloisters, the Old Library, and finally the worldwide
famous book restoration centre. Nestled on the top of the
hill, the Monastery of Monte Rua, is still a Camaldolite
hermitage.
Even though visitors are not allowed in the monastery,
from the spot where it rises one can enjoy a beautiful view
on the surrounding hills. The Abbey of Santa Maria
di Carceri near Este is an ancient former monastery
(12th century), which was partially converted into private
mansion by the Carminati noble family at the end of the
17th century. The huge complex includes church and abbey,
cloisters, guest-rooms, and a library with fine frescoes.
Not far from Carceri, in Urbana, stands the former monastery
of San Salvaro with its ancient church dating back to the 11th c.
adorned by frescoes (14th c.) and a collection of old maps,
papers and finds, which document the history of this part
of the paduan territory.
3
4
5
An important example of the romanic style of North-East Italy
is the church of St. Stefano at Due Carrare. Once part of an
important abbey, the church survived the terrible earthquake
of the year 1117, which destroyed almost all the main buildings
which had been built up to that year.
St. Stefano’s Church still keeps its original medieval structure
and belltower, fine 11th century and 14th century mosaics
and the tomb of Marsilio da Carrara, prince of Padua at the
beginning of the 14th century. Many churches and sanctuaries
are dedicated to the Virgin Mary and they often rise where
a miraculous event took place. The Sanctuary of Santa Maria
di Monteortone in Abano Terme began its history in 1428
when a soldier, a certain Pietro Falco, bathing himself in the
grotto at the side of the present church to heal himself of the
plague, obtained a cure and, following a divine command,
exctracted from the healing water a panel representing
the Madonna, which is still displayed on the altar of the apse.
On the Monte della Madonna (Teolo) is the fifteenth-century
Sanctuary of the Madonna, with small Benedictine monastery
and beautiful view on the surrounding landscape.
In Este a church dedicated
to the Madonna delle Grazie
(our Lady of the Graces)
keeps a venerated Byzantine
Madonna on wood realized
in the 15th century. Another
sanctuary dedicated
to St. Mary is in Ospedaletto
Euganeo. The so called
Santuario del Tresto was
erected in 1468 in order
to host a miraculous image
of the Virgin, who had
appeared to a boatman.
In Piove di Sacco, the most
important centre of the south-eastern part of the province, two
important religious monuments are to be visited: the Cathedral,
dedicated to St. Martin and the Sanctuary of the Madonna
delle Grazie (our Lady of the Graces), built in 1484 to hold
an effigy of Mary, which the people believed to be miraculous.
In the north of the province, in Camposampiero, stands the
Santuario del Noce (Walnut-tree Sanctuary), dedicated
to the most beloved saint of Padua and its province,
St. Anthony. As the legend goes, this small church was built
precisely on the spot where St. Anthony delivered a memorable
sermon while standing at the top of a walnut-tree.
3 Torreglia, Hermitage
on the Mount Rua
4 Camposampiero, Sanctuary
of the Wallnut-tree
5 Piove di Sacco, Madonna delle Grazie
Sanctuary, Giovanni Bellini’s
Madonna with Child
Below, Carceri Abbey
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
outside and a very spiritual atmosphere inside; in the church
of St. Francesco 15th century frescoes and a Renaissance
bronze funeral monument are kept; the little Romanesque
church of St. Nicolò stands in one of the most lovely corners
of the town and keeps works by Jacopo da Montagnana,
Stefano dall’Arzere and Giandomenico Tiepolo. Few people
know that the 18th century composer Giuseppe Tartini, who
wrote the opera Il trillo del diavolo (Devil’s Trill Sonata)
is buried in the small church of St. Caterina; an unexpected
surprise awaits the visitor of the church of St. Massimo:
three beautiful paintings
by Giovan
Battista
Tiepolo (17th c.),
the painter
who
decorated
many Italian
villas, and
painted
the ceiling
frescoes in the
palace of the
Archbishop at Würzburg and the palace of Charles III
of Spain in Madrid. More recent masterpieces are the church
of St. Gaetano built on a plan of Vincenzo Scamozzi (16th c.)
and the church of Santa Maria del Pianto, called Chiesa del
Torresino, for the central embattled tower. Another ancient
church is the Oratory of St. Michele in Pozzoveggiani, which
is the result of the juxtaposition of a Romanesque building
on an early-medieval one. The church of St. Anthony
at Arcella is the place where the saint died in 1231.
2
1 Monteortone of Abano Terme, Madonna della Salute Sanctuary
2 Padua, St. Michele’s Church at Pozzoveggiani
Below, Praglia Abbey
Pagina 14
1
The province of Padua is rich in religious buildings and
monuments too. The coenobia of the monastic orders have
been peaceful retreats for scholars, chief centres of Christian
piety and learning for centuries. A visit to these religious
sites is a great experience for those who enjoy the sense
of somewhere different, very spiritual and peaceful.
Embedded in the greenery of the Euganean Hills, the
Benedictine Abbey of Santa Maria di Praglia is one of the
oldest monasteries of the region. It was founded in the 11thcentury but almost entirely rebuilt in the 15th century, when
the abbey became one of the main centres for land reclamation
and conversion into farmland of the whole Paduan territory.
The wide complex includes a fine Renaissance church
(1448) with frescoes and paintings of Venetian school,
and a crucifix attributed to the followers of Giotto’s,
the medieval monastery with ancient refectory and guest
house, cloisters, the Old Library, and finally the worldwide
famous book restoration centre. Nestled on the top of the
hill, the Monastery of Monte Rua, is still a Camaldolite
hermitage.
Even though visitors are not allowed in the monastery,
from the spot where it rises one can enjoy a beautiful view
on the surrounding hills. The Abbey of Santa Maria
di Carceri near Este is an ancient former monastery
(12th century), which was partially converted into private
mansion by the Carminati noble family at the end of the
17th century. The huge complex includes church and abbey,
cloisters, guest-rooms, and a library with fine frescoes.
Not far from Carceri, in Urbana, stands the former monastery
of San Salvaro with its ancient church dating back to the 11th c.
adorned by frescoes (14th c.) and a collection of old maps,
papers and finds, which document the history of this part
of the paduan territory.
3
4
5
An important example of the romanic style of North-East Italy
is the church of St. Stefano at Due Carrare. Once part of an
important abbey, the church survived the terrible earthquake
of the year 1117, which destroyed almost all the main buildings
which had been built up to that year.
St. Stefano’s Church still keeps its original medieval structure
and belltower, fine 11th century and 14th century mosaics
and the tomb of Marsilio da Carrara, prince of Padua at the
beginning of the 14th century. Many churches and sanctuaries
are dedicated to the Virgin Mary and they often rise where
a miraculous event took place. The Sanctuary of Santa Maria
di Monteortone in Abano Terme began its history in 1428
when a soldier, a certain Pietro Falco, bathing himself in the
grotto at the side of the present church to heal himself of the
plague, obtained a cure and, following a divine command,
exctracted from the healing water a panel representing
the Madonna, which is still displayed on the altar of the apse.
On the Monte della Madonna (Teolo) is the fifteenth-century
Sanctuary of the Madonna, with small Benedictine monastery
and beautiful view on the surrounding landscape.
In Este a church dedicated
to the Madonna delle Grazie
(our Lady of the Graces)
keeps a venerated Byzantine
Madonna on wood realized
in the 15th century. Another
sanctuary dedicated
to St. Mary is in Ospedaletto
Euganeo. The so called
Santuario del Tresto was
erected in 1468 in order
to host a miraculous image
of the Virgin, who had
appeared to a boatman.
In Piove di Sacco, the most
important centre of the south-eastern part of the province, two
important religious monuments are to be visited: the Cathedral,
dedicated to St. Martin and the Sanctuary of the Madonna
delle Grazie (our Lady of the Graces), built in 1484 to hold
an effigy of Mary, which the people believed to be miraculous.
In the north of the province, in Camposampiero, stands the
Santuario del Noce (Walnut-tree Sanctuary), dedicated
to the most beloved saint of Padua and its province,
St. Anthony. As the legend goes, this small church was built
precisely on the spot where St. Anthony delivered a memorable
sermon while standing at the top of a walnut-tree.
3 Torreglia, Hermitage
on the Mount Rua
4 Camposampiero, Sanctuary
of the Wallnut-tree
5 Piove di Sacco, Madonna delle Grazie
Sanctuary, Giovanni Bellini’s
Madonna with Child
Below, Carceri Abbey
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 16
A province of waters.
The first settlement of Padua arose around
the 12th century B.C. inside a wide bend of the river
Medoacus, the actual river Brenta. Since then the history
of Padua has been marked by waters. Already in the 1st
century A.D. the famous Roman historian, Titus Livius
(or Livy), author of one of the more veritable versions
of the history of the Roman Republic, narrated of the
incredible skill of the Paduans in navigation, when in the
year 302 B.C. they defeated the fleet of the Spartan King
Cleonimus. During the Roman age Patavium was one of
the most thriving commerce centres of the Roman Empire.
2
3
1
The great Greek historian and geographer Strabon wrote
that Patavium was the most important town of the region
and ancient chronicles report of the great number of wares
that left its harbour towards Rome thus proving the presence
of a flourishing and dynamic people and economy.
The city thrived until the barbarian onslaughts and
the subsequent Langobard invasion, which took place from
the fourth to the seventh century. Recovery was slow and
Padua’s great canal network played again a fundamental
role, as it had an ever increasing strategic importance
in the fights for the territorial supremacy. First during
the Commune government and then during the Da Carrara
Seigneury and the Venetian domination the excavations
realized to control and exploit the waters led to the creation
of a dense network of navigable canals, real and true
“water motorways”. This network connected Padua with
the surrounding territory and with all the most important
towns of the Veneto region. During the four centuries
of the Venetian domination waterways were used
to transport an impressive quantity of wares and goods
from the paduan territory to Venice and Venetian
noblemen could easily navigate them to reach
the Euganean Hills and the paduan countryside, where they
erected their magnificent villas. Until the middle of the 20th
century Paduan waterways were sailed by all sort of boats:
rafts, peote, burci, gondole, sandoli, padovane and burchielli,
and were populated by fix and floating watermills.
The Bacchiglione river, which in the past connected Vicenza
with Padua, represents still today the primary water source
for the city: its waters enter in Padua from the South and
flow along the Renaissance walls to the Ezzelino Castle.
Here the Bacchiglione bifurcates: the link
wing, called Tronco Maestro, flows
16
Paduan waterways
Canale Battaglia riverbank
Onara Marsh
Canoeing on the Bacchiglione River
Padua, view of the waterway
which flows around the ancient walls
8 Riviera del Brenta, tourist navigation
in front of Villa Giovannelli
at Noventa Padovana
9 Padua, Ognissanti Gate
10 Battaglia Terme,
Museum of River Navigation
5
The burci (or burchi), i.e.
the typical Venetian barges,
could easily moor anywhere
along the river banks.
In the Divine Comedy Dante
reports that “As sometimes
wherries lie upon the shore,
That part are in the water,
part on land...”
(Hell, canto XVII,
vv. 19-20).
7
8
downwards along
the medieval walls
to the old Carmine
Basilica; the right
wing, called Naviglio
Interno, follows the
internal side of the
walls, flows through the
city centre to the Porte
Contarine, after which the Tronco
Maestro and the Naviglio interno flow together and form
the Piovego canal. In the last years a great programme
of waterways recovering and restoring has given impulse
to the tourist navigation along Paduan canals and rivers.
4
1-3
4
5
6
7
6
9
The itineraries include the navigation along the internal
canals with beautiful views on the walls, the Brenta River
and its imposing villas, the Euganea Riviera with its
enchanting vegetation and historical sites, the way to the
Venetian Lagoon. The story of river navigation and the life
of the ‘barcari’ (boatmen)
are widely narrated in the
Museum of River
Navigation in Battaglia
Terme, which displays
about four thousand pieces
(boats, equipment, historic
photos, old maps, books and
documents) housed in an
historical little palace built
in beautiful position at the
confluence of two canals.
10
17
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 16
A province of waters.
The first settlement of Padua arose around
the 12th century B.C. inside a wide bend of the river
Medoacus, the actual river Brenta. Since then the history
of Padua has been marked by waters. Already in the 1st
century A.D. the famous Roman historian, Titus Livius
(or Livy), author of one of the more veritable versions
of the history of the Roman Republic, narrated of the
incredible skill of the Paduans in navigation, when in the
year 302 B.C. they defeated the fleet of the Spartan King
Cleonimus. During the Roman age Patavium was one of
the most thriving commerce centres of the Roman Empire.
2
3
1
The great Greek historian and geographer Strabon wrote
that Patavium was the most important town of the region
and ancient chronicles report of the great number of wares
that left its harbour towards Rome thus proving the presence
of a flourishing and dynamic people and economy.
The city thrived until the barbarian onslaughts and
the subsequent Langobard invasion, which took place from
the fourth to the seventh century. Recovery was slow and
Padua’s great canal network played again a fundamental
role, as it had an ever increasing strategic importance
in the fights for the territorial supremacy. First during
the Commune government and then during the Da Carrara
Seigneury and the Venetian domination the excavations
realized to control and exploit the waters led to the creation
of a dense network of navigable canals, real and true
“water motorways”. This network connected Padua with
the surrounding territory and with all the most important
towns of the Veneto region. During the four centuries
of the Venetian domination waterways were used
to transport an impressive quantity of wares and goods
from the paduan territory to Venice and Venetian
noblemen could easily navigate them to reach
the Euganean Hills and the paduan countryside, where they
erected their magnificent villas. Until the middle of the 20th
century Paduan waterways were sailed by all sort of boats:
rafts, peote, burci, gondole, sandoli, padovane and burchielli,
and were populated by fix and floating watermills.
The Bacchiglione river, which in the past connected Vicenza
with Padua, represents still today the primary water source
for the city: its waters enter in Padua from the South and
flow along the Renaissance walls to the Ezzelino Castle.
Here the Bacchiglione bifurcates: the link
wing, called Tronco Maestro, flows
16
Paduan waterways
Canale Battaglia riverbank
Onara Marsh
Canoeing on the Bacchiglione River
Padua, view of the waterway
which flows around the ancient walls
8 Riviera del Brenta, tourist navigation
in front of Villa Giovannelli
at Noventa Padovana
9 Padua, Ognissanti Gate
10 Battaglia Terme,
Museum of River Navigation
5
The burci (or burchi), i.e.
the typical Venetian barges,
could easily moor anywhere
along the river banks.
In the Divine Comedy Dante
reports that “As sometimes
wherries lie upon the shore,
That part are in the water,
part on land...”
(Hell, canto XVII,
vv. 19-20).
7
8
downwards along
the medieval walls
to the old Carmine
Basilica; the right
wing, called Naviglio
Interno, follows the
internal side of the
walls, flows through the
city centre to the Porte
Contarine, after which the Tronco
Maestro and the Naviglio interno flow together and form
the Piovego canal. In the last years a great programme
of waterways recovering and restoring has given impulse
to the tourist navigation along Paduan canals and rivers.
4
1-3
4
5
6
7
6
9
The itineraries include the navigation along the internal
canals with beautiful views on the walls, the Brenta River
and its imposing villas, the Euganea Riviera with its
enchanting vegetation and historical sites, the way to the
Venetian Lagoon. The story of river navigation and the life
of the ‘barcari’ (boatmen)
are widely narrated in the
Museum of River
Navigation in Battaglia
Terme, which displays
about four thousand pieces
(boats, equipment, historic
photos, old maps, books and
documents) housed in an
historical little palace built
in beautiful position at the
confluence of two canals.
10
17
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 18
Montegrotto Terme, Butterfly Arc
Terme Euganee, over 2000 years
of health and well-being.
1
2
Surrounded by the relaxing greenery of the Euganean Hills,
the Euganean Spas (Terme Euganee), with the two main
centres of Abano and Montegrotto and the smaller ones
of Galzignano, Battaglia and Monteortone of Teolo,
are famous worldwide for the mud and spa treatments.
They are the ideal site for a healing, uplifting and fun spa
holiday. The secret is in the spa water, which falls into the
category of deep underground waters. They are of meteroic
origin and derive from the uncontaminated basins of the
Lessini Mountains in the foothills of the Alps, passing
through calcareous rocks and into the subsoil at a depth
of approximately 80 kilometer route that takes an average
of 25/30 years. During this time they take on mineral sals
and finally reach the Euganean Spas where they spring
forth at a temperature of 87°C. The abundance
of the dissolved substances make this water a unique
thermal resource, one of its kind in the world.
From the chemical point of view these waters are classified
as hyperthermal sodiobromidiodic waters.
18
The healing virtues of the Terme Euganee waters were
already appreciated by the Euganean people, who over
2000 years ago had a sacred lake here for the veneration
of the God Aponus, the god of thermal waters.
During the Roman age (1st-2nd c. A.D.), the Fons Aponi
(Aponus’spring) became very important and famous.
The spas were attended both for healing and religious
reasons: the legend says that one of the roman Emperors
went to the Fons Aponi to have the response of the
Gerione oracle, a mysterious god who said the future
through the hot waters. The imperial palace, a partly-covered
amphitheatre also used for shows on water, patrician villas
and residences, places of cult, reflection walks, and rich
thermal baths: this is how the Fons Aponi appeared
in Roman times. The growing interest in the spas led the
Da Carrara family, rulers of Padua in the 14th c.,
1 Abano Terme, monumental
gateway to the Montirone
2 Montegrotto Terme,
Villa Draghi
On the left, Terme Euganee,
Mud therapy
3 Thermal pool
4 Montegrotto Terme,
International Artistic
Glass and Spa Museum.
5 Golf on the Euganean Hills
3
to promote a deep survey of the waters. The survey
was led by the University of Padua and it continues still
today thanks to the studies of the Centro Studi Termali
Veneto Pietro D’Abano (Spa Study Centre). Through
in-depth study of the primary components of the thermal
resources –water, algae, muds- the Study Centre performs
systematic research into the thermal medicine
and constantly monitors the effects of fangotherapy
in order to guarantee the utmost quality. The spa hotels
are specialized in the various spa treatments:
fangotherapy, balneotherapy, hydrokinetic therapy
and inhalation therapy. Besides the astonishing abilities
to aid and restore, the thermal waters are also used in
beauty treatments. Thanks to the modern, accomodating
bath establishments, you can regain your vigour, relax
and achieve that lost sense of well-being. After the spa
treatments a wide range of sports and outdoor activities
can be practised in the area. The Euganean Hills, which
surround the spas, are most inviting for those who wish
to keep in shape or enjoy sports. In fact, this context,
which mixes modern facilities and beautiful natural
environment, lends itself to numerous activities,
such as golf, horse riding, cycling, rock-climbing,
jogging or simply walking along the paths of the hills.
The historical and artistical heritage is vast, too.
Among the hills you will find historical monuments,
villas, castles, museums, ancient abbeys and monasteries.
And last but not the least, you will be surprised
4
to discover the excellent local cuisine, which combines
wholesome food and genuine wines. Here nature
has helped create the special flavours of the traditional
dishes, offering, especially in Spring and in Autumn,
numerous varieties of wild herbs, mushrooms, produce
of the undergrowth and vegetables to be used in risottos,
omelettes and other specialties.
5
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 18
Montegrotto Terme, Butterfly Arc
Terme Euganee, over 2000 years
of health and well-being.
1
2
Surrounded by the relaxing greenery of the Euganean Hills,
the Euganean Spas (Terme Euganee), with the two main
centres of Abano and Montegrotto and the smaller ones
of Galzignano, Battaglia and Monteortone of Teolo,
are famous worldwide for the mud and spa treatments.
They are the ideal site for a healing, uplifting and fun spa
holiday. The secret is in the spa water, which falls into the
category of deep underground waters. They are of meteroic
origin and derive from the uncontaminated basins of the
Lessini Mountains in the foothills of the Alps, passing
through calcareous rocks and into the subsoil at a depth
of approximately 80 kilometer route that takes an average
of 25/30 years. During this time they take on mineral sals
and finally reach the Euganean Spas where they spring
forth at a temperature of 87°C. The abundance
of the dissolved substances make this water a unique
thermal resource, one of its kind in the world.
From the chemical point of view these waters are classified
as hyperthermal sodiobromidiodic waters.
18
The healing virtues of the Terme Euganee waters were
already appreciated by the Euganean people, who over
2000 years ago had a sacred lake here for the veneration
of the God Aponus, the god of thermal waters.
During the Roman age (1st-2nd c. A.D.), the Fons Aponi
(Aponus’spring) became very important and famous.
The spas were attended both for healing and religious
reasons: the legend says that one of the roman Emperors
went to the Fons Aponi to have the response of the
Gerione oracle, a mysterious god who said the future
through the hot waters. The imperial palace, a partly-covered
amphitheatre also used for shows on water, patrician villas
and residences, places of cult, reflection walks, and rich
thermal baths: this is how the Fons Aponi appeared
in Roman times. The growing interest in the spas led the
Da Carrara family, rulers of Padua in the 14th c.,
1 Abano Terme, monumental
gateway to the Montirone
2 Montegrotto Terme,
Villa Draghi
On the left, Terme Euganee,
Mud therapy
3 Thermal pool
4 Montegrotto Terme,
International Artistic
Glass and Spa Museum.
5 Golf on the Euganean Hills
3
to promote a deep survey of the waters. The survey
was led by the University of Padua and it continues still
today thanks to the studies of the Centro Studi Termali
Veneto Pietro D’Abano (Spa Study Centre). Through
in-depth study of the primary components of the thermal
resources –water, algae, muds- the Study Centre performs
systematic research into the thermal medicine
and constantly monitors the effects of fangotherapy
in order to guarantee the utmost quality. The spa hotels
are specialized in the various spa treatments:
fangotherapy, balneotherapy, hydrokinetic therapy
and inhalation therapy. Besides the astonishing abilities
to aid and restore, the thermal waters are also used in
beauty treatments. Thanks to the modern, accomodating
bath establishments, you can regain your vigour, relax
and achieve that lost sense of well-being. After the spa
treatments a wide range of sports and outdoor activities
can be practised in the area. The Euganean Hills, which
surround the spas, are most inviting for those who wish
to keep in shape or enjoy sports. In fact, this context,
which mixes modern facilities and beautiful natural
environment, lends itself to numerous activities,
such as golf, horse riding, cycling, rock-climbing,
jogging or simply walking along the paths of the hills.
The historical and artistical heritage is vast, too.
Among the hills you will find historical monuments,
villas, castles, museums, ancient abbeys and monasteries.
And last but not the least, you will be surprised
4
to discover the excellent local cuisine, which combines
wholesome food and genuine wines. Here nature
has helped create the special flavours of the traditional
dishes, offering, especially in Spring and in Autumn,
numerous varieties of wild herbs, mushrooms, produce
of the undergrowth and vegetables to be used in risottos,
omelettes and other specialties.
5
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 20
Villas and Castles.
with fish ponds, lakes and tree-lined avenues. Not far
away from Villa Contarini, in Piombino Dese, is Villa
Cornaro (1551-52), a masterpiece by Andrea Palladio.
It is a monumental house with loggias and a central hall
adorned with white statues and columns. In the same town
stands Villa Marcello, a sixteenth-century building with wide
barchesse, garden and beautiful halls decorated by frescoes,
which depict episodes from the life of Charles the Great and
of the Olympian Gods. A great number of villas crowd into
the green landscape of the Euganean Hills. Nestled
at the top of a gentle hill, the elegant Villa Emo Capodilista,
in Selvazzano represents one of the most original 16th c. villas
Imposing strongholds and beautiful villas surrounded
by luxuriant gardens are scattered throughout the Paduan
province. These grand buildings along with their historical
gardens witness the age-long strategic importance
of this territory and its cultural and economic vitality.
One of the most interesting
itineraries among medieval
towns and castles develops
in the south western part
of the province. Three imposing
castles rise at a short distance
one from the other. The 14th c.
castle of St. Pelagio was
converted into private mansion
house by the Zaborra family
in the 18th c. After one of the
greatest fly actions of the past
century, i.e. Italian poet
Gabriele D’Annunzio’s
flight to Vienna, took place
here in 1918, architect Avesani
arranged the interior of the
castle into an interesting air
museum, which illustrates the
history of flight. The castle
is surrounded by extensive
parkland. The Catajo castle
in Battaglia Terme is actually
a mansion house. It was erected in the 16th c. with the imposing
appearance of a castle by Pio Enea I degli Obizzi, who was
famous for his military skill and for having invented the howitzer.
This huge property keeps beautiful frescoes and is enhanced by
a wide park with architectonical decorations. The wide halls
of the medieval Monselice castle superbly exemplifies the
tranformation which defensive buildings underwent during
the Renaissance age, when the military function ceased and
castles and strongholds were converted into luxury private
dwellings. The wide complex includes medieval rooms, beautiful
halls with original 14th c. fireplaces later parts added or enlarged
in the 16th -17th c. And important collection of old arms and
armours, which are still on display. On the Euganean Hills still
rise two of the most ancient castles of the Paduan Province.
The ancient St. Martino della Vaneza castle (11th c.) in Cervarese
2
1 Battaglia Terme,
Catajo Castle
2 Monselice Castle,
hall with typical
carrarese fireplace
3 Lozzo Atestino,
Valbona Castle
4 Due Carrare,
St. Pelagio Castle,
Hot-air balloons Hall
20
3
1
St. Croce has a distinct sense of history and a picturesque rural
setting along the banks of the Bacchiglione river. It contains
a museum dedicated to the river Bacchiglione. Set in peacefully
surroundings at the foot of the Lozzo hill, Valbona Castle is a very
well preserved 13th c. building and one of the most interesting
examples of medieval military fortification. The castle boasts
a reastaurant and a photographic display about the Paduan castles.
Venetian villas are amongst the most precious gems of the Paduan
territory. Enhanced by wide gardens or age-old parks, these
magnificent dwellings were realised between the 15th and the 18th c.
to satisfy the agricultural and recreational needs of their noble
owners. Villa Contarini majestically dominates the town of
Piazzola sul Brenta. Its scenographic mass comprises a 16th c.
central body with the famous Sala della Chitarra Rovesciata (Hall
of the upside-down guitar), long monumental 17th c. barchesse
(lean-to), wide semicircular arcades, and 50 hectares of parkland
6
of the Veneto region. In Luvigliano, one of the preferred
destination of wine’s lovers, lies Villa dei Vescovi, a 16th c. villa
planned by Falconetto. With its open loggias and multicoloured
external walls it represents one of the first examples of the
characteristic venetian “pictorial” architectures, which started
developping in that period. The house of the great Italian poet
Francesco Petrarca (14th c.) in Arquà Petrarca, retains original
ceilings and furniture. From the balcony you can still enjoy the
superb view on the hills, which enchanted the poet and inspired
him some of his verses and letters. A fairy-tale atmosphere
5 Piombino Dese, Villa Cornaro
6 Arquà Petrarca, Petrarch’s House
Below, Piazzola sul Brenta,
Villa Contarini
4
5
surrounds the beautiful Villa Selvatico-Sartori lying in enchanting
position at the top of St. Elena Hill. Its scenographic park was
designed by architect Giuseppe Jappelli. An imposing staircase
leads to the villa, the halls of which are decorated by 17th c.
frescoes. Many other mansions are scattered throughout the
area which includes the medieval walled towns of Monselice,
Este, and Montagnana, which was one of the favourite inspiring
lands for generations of artists, poets and writers. The whole
area can be the ideal destination to discover the places of
importance to the many artists, writers and craftsmen who have
drawn inspiration from the hills, among them troubadoric poets,
Petrarch, Byron, Shelley, Foscolo, Fogazzaro and Bruce Chatwin.
Fine villas adorn the rural landscape of the Saccisica region.
In Bagnoli di Sopra Villa Widmann was particularly famous
in the 18th-century when Venetian playwright Carlo Goldoni
played in the private theatre of the mansion. Today the noble
dwelling, which is surrounded by wide park with numerous
statues, houses a famous wine-cellar and the Stradon del Vin
Friularo Association. A few kilometres farther on is another
beautiful mansion, Villa Garzoni Carraretto, which was built
on a plan by Sansovino (1537-40). Another fine country
mansion is Villa Roberti in Brugine. The wide halls are decorated
by sixteenth-century Frescoes attributed to Paolo Veronese.
The wide park which surrounds the villa hosts the monthly
antiques market.
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 20
Villas and Castles.
with fish ponds, lakes and tree-lined avenues. Not far
away from Villa Contarini, in Piombino Dese, is Villa
Cornaro (1551-52), a masterpiece by Andrea Palladio.
It is a monumental house with loggias and a central hall
adorned with white statues and columns. In the same town
stands Villa Marcello, a sixteenth-century building with wide
barchesse, garden and beautiful halls decorated by frescoes,
which depict episodes from the life of Charles the Great and
of the Olympian Gods. A great number of villas crowd into
the green landscape of the Euganean Hills. Nestled
at the top of a gentle hill, the elegant Villa Emo Capodilista,
in Selvazzano represents one of the most original 16th c. villas
Imposing strongholds and beautiful villas surrounded
by luxuriant gardens are scattered throughout the Paduan
province. These grand buildings along with their historical
gardens witness the age-long strategic importance
of this territory and its cultural and economic vitality.
One of the most interesting
itineraries among medieval
towns and castles develops
in the south western part
of the province. Three imposing
castles rise at a short distance
one from the other. The 14th c.
castle of St. Pelagio was
converted into private mansion
house by the Zaborra family
in the 18th c. After one of the
greatest fly actions of the past
century, i.e. Italian poet
Gabriele D’Annunzio’s
flight to Vienna, took place
here in 1918, architect Avesani
arranged the interior of the
castle into an interesting air
museum, which illustrates the
history of flight. The castle
is surrounded by extensive
parkland. The Catajo castle
in Battaglia Terme is actually
a mansion house. It was erected in the 16th c. with the imposing
appearance of a castle by Pio Enea I degli Obizzi, who was
famous for his military skill and for having invented the howitzer.
This huge property keeps beautiful frescoes and is enhanced by
a wide park with architectonical decorations. The wide halls
of the medieval Monselice castle superbly exemplifies the
tranformation which defensive buildings underwent during
the Renaissance age, when the military function ceased and
castles and strongholds were converted into luxury private
dwellings. The wide complex includes medieval rooms, beautiful
halls with original 14th c. fireplaces later parts added or enlarged
in the 16th -17th c. And important collection of old arms and
armours, which are still on display. On the Euganean Hills still
rise two of the most ancient castles of the Paduan Province.
The ancient St. Martino della Vaneza castle (11th c.) in Cervarese
2
1 Battaglia Terme,
Catajo Castle
2 Monselice Castle,
hall with typical
carrarese fireplace
3 Lozzo Atestino,
Valbona Castle
4 Due Carrare,
St. Pelagio Castle,
Hot-air balloons Hall
20
3
1
St. Croce has a distinct sense of history and a picturesque rural
setting along the banks of the Bacchiglione river. It contains
a museum dedicated to the river Bacchiglione. Set in peacefully
surroundings at the foot of the Lozzo hill, Valbona Castle is a very
well preserved 13th c. building and one of the most interesting
examples of medieval military fortification. The castle boasts
a reastaurant and a photographic display about the Paduan castles.
Venetian villas are amongst the most precious gems of the Paduan
territory. Enhanced by wide gardens or age-old parks, these
magnificent dwellings were realised between the 15th and the 18th c.
to satisfy the agricultural and recreational needs of their noble
owners. Villa Contarini majestically dominates the town of
Piazzola sul Brenta. Its scenographic mass comprises a 16th c.
central body with the famous Sala della Chitarra Rovesciata (Hall
of the upside-down guitar), long monumental 17th c. barchesse
(lean-to), wide semicircular arcades, and 50 hectares of parkland
6
of the Veneto region. In Luvigliano, one of the preferred
destination of wine’s lovers, lies Villa dei Vescovi, a 16th c. villa
planned by Falconetto. With its open loggias and multicoloured
external walls it represents one of the first examples of the
characteristic venetian “pictorial” architectures, which started
developping in that period. The house of the great Italian poet
Francesco Petrarca (14th c.) in Arquà Petrarca, retains original
ceilings and furniture. From the balcony you can still enjoy the
superb view on the hills, which enchanted the poet and inspired
him some of his verses and letters. A fairy-tale atmosphere
5 Piombino Dese, Villa Cornaro
6 Arquà Petrarca, Petrarch’s House
Below, Piazzola sul Brenta,
Villa Contarini
4
5
surrounds the beautiful Villa Selvatico-Sartori lying in enchanting
position at the top of St. Elena Hill. Its scenographic park was
designed by architect Giuseppe Jappelli. An imposing staircase
leads to the villa, the halls of which are decorated by 17th c.
frescoes. Many other mansions are scattered throughout the
area which includes the medieval walled towns of Monselice,
Este, and Montagnana, which was one of the favourite inspiring
lands for generations of artists, poets and writers. The whole
area can be the ideal destination to discover the places of
importance to the many artists, writers and craftsmen who have
drawn inspiration from the hills, among them troubadoric poets,
Petrarch, Byron, Shelley, Foscolo, Fogazzaro and Bruce Chatwin.
Fine villas adorn the rural landscape of the Saccisica region.
In Bagnoli di Sopra Villa Widmann was particularly famous
in the 18th-century when Venetian playwright Carlo Goldoni
played in the private theatre of the mansion. Today the noble
dwelling, which is surrounded by wide park with numerous
statues, houses a famous wine-cellar and the Stradon del Vin
Friularo Association. A few kilometres farther on is another
beautiful mansion, Villa Garzoni Carraretto, which was built
on a plan by Sansovino (1537-40). Another fine country
mansion is Villa Roberti in Brugine. The wide halls are decorated
by sixteenth-century Frescoes attributed to Paolo Veronese.
The wide park which surrounds the villa hosts the monthly
antiques market.
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 22
Historical gardens and parks.
1
The mild climate of the region and the skill of passionate
gardeners and garden designers have left in the area
a host of glorious gardens and centuries old parks.
The garden of Villa Barbarigo in Valsanzibio ranges
among the most important in Europe. It was re-designed
on a grand scale around the middle Seventeenth century
by the venetian aristocrat Giovan Francesco Barbarigo.
Plenty of water enlivens an extraordinary universe of
fountains, cascades, fishponds and brooks. Classical and
romantic elements combine harmoniously and constitute a
precious patrimony of statues, architectonical decorations,
water games, loggias. A famous labyrinth enhances
the property. The sheer variety and abundance
of flowers and shrubs is one of the most amazing
characteristics of the garden of Villa Emo in Rivella
di Monselice. During the Spring and the early Summer
the garden is at its best with fruit trees in blossom, borders
and lawns are studded with masses of narcissi, roses
reflect their colourful shapes in the water below, masses
of brilliant day lilies create extraordinary borders.
An 8 ha. park surrounds Villa Miari de Cumani in St.
Elena d’Este. The mansion, characterized by embattled
towers and walls, is part of a wide complex which includes rural houses, greenhouse, the beautiful romantic park
partially created by the Venetian architect Giuseppe
Jappelli (19th c.) and concluded by Osvaldo Paoletti in 1870
with a lake and grotto.
2
The luxuriant park, which surrounds Villa Pisani Scalabrin
in Vescovana, comprises an Italian-style garden and
romantic English-style park with chapel, theatre, barchesse,
rural buildings, statues
and an 18th c.
neo-gothic little temple.
The park was celebrated
by English writer
Margaret Symonds in
her book “Days spent
on a Doge’s farm”.
Imposing plane-trees
and centuries old oaks
crowd the Frassanelle
Park, which mixes
English style garden
6
3
8
7
9
6 Noventa Padovana,
Villa Valmarana
7 Noventa Padovana,
Villa Giovannelli
8 Vescovana, Villa Pisani
Scalabrin Park
9 Rivella di Monselice,
Villa Emo
10 Battaglia Terme,
Villa Selvatico Sartori
features and romantic park elements. Its artificial grottos
are quite suggestive. The famous Riviera del Brenta with
its beautiful villas starts at Noventa Padovana. In this
small town rise some of the most beautiful villas of the
area: Villa Giovanelli with its imposing façade was erected
in 1670 in palladian style; Villa Grimani Valmarana
was built in the 15th c. on the ruins of an ancient castle
and keeps 18th c. frescoes; Villa Giustiniani, a wide rural
complex built at the end of the 16th c. and restored
in the 18th c. The riviera del Brenta continues following
the course of the river from Stra to Venice. A charming
trip among villas and gardens, a superb tour which
enchanted poets and travellers, such as Lord Byron and
Goethe, the Italian poet Gabriele D'Annunzio, the scientist
Galileo Galilei, the playwright Carlo Goldoni.
4
22
5
1
2
3
4
5
Bagnoli di Sopra, Villa Widmann
Valsanzibio di Galzignano Terme, Villa Barbarigo
St. Elena d’Este, Villa Miari de’ Cumani
Selvazzano, Villa Emo Capodilista La Montecchia
Valsanzibio di Galzignano Terme, Villa Barbarigo
10
23
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:38
Pagina 22
Historical gardens and parks.
1
The mild climate of the region and the skill of passionate
gardeners and garden designers have left in the area
a host of glorious gardens and centuries old parks.
The garden of Villa Barbarigo in Valsanzibio ranges
among the most important in Europe. It was re-designed
on a grand scale around the middle Seventeenth century
by the venetian aristocrat Giovan Francesco Barbarigo.
Plenty of water enlivens an extraordinary universe of
fountains, cascades, fishponds and brooks. Classical and
romantic elements combine harmoniously and constitute a
precious patrimony of statues, architectonical decorations,
water games, loggias. A famous labyrinth enhances
the property. The sheer variety and abundance
of flowers and shrubs is one of the most amazing
characteristics of the garden of Villa Emo in Rivella
di Monselice. During the Spring and the early Summer
the garden is at its best with fruit trees in blossom, borders
and lawns are studded with masses of narcissi, roses
reflect their colourful shapes in the water below, masses
of brilliant day lilies create extraordinary borders.
An 8 ha. park surrounds Villa Miari de Cumani in St.
Elena d’Este. The mansion, characterized by embattled
towers and walls, is part of a wide complex which includes rural houses, greenhouse, the beautiful romantic park
partially created by the Venetian architect Giuseppe
Jappelli (19th c.) and concluded by Osvaldo Paoletti in 1870
with a lake and grotto.
2
The luxuriant park, which surrounds Villa Pisani Scalabrin
in Vescovana, comprises an Italian-style garden and
romantic English-style park with chapel, theatre, barchesse,
rural buildings, statues
and an 18th c.
neo-gothic little temple.
The park was celebrated
by English writer
Margaret Symonds in
her book “Days spent
on a Doge’s farm”.
Imposing plane-trees
and centuries old oaks
crowd the Frassanelle
Park, which mixes
English style garden
6
3
8
7
9
6 Noventa Padovana,
Villa Valmarana
7 Noventa Padovana,
Villa Giovannelli
8 Vescovana, Villa Pisani
Scalabrin Park
9 Rivella di Monselice,
Villa Emo
10 Battaglia Terme,
Villa Selvatico Sartori
features and romantic park elements. Its artificial grottos
are quite suggestive. The famous Riviera del Brenta with
its beautiful villas starts at Noventa Padovana. In this
small town rise some of the most beautiful villas of the
area: Villa Giovanelli with its imposing façade was erected
in 1670 in palladian style; Villa Grimani Valmarana
was built in the 15th c. on the ruins of an ancient castle
and keeps 18th c. frescoes; Villa Giustiniani, a wide rural
complex built at the end of the 16th c. and restored
in the 18th c. The riviera del Brenta continues following
the course of the river from Stra to Venice. A charming
trip among villas and gardens, a superb tour which
enchanted poets and travellers, such as Lord Byron and
Goethe, the Italian poet Gabriele D'Annunzio, the scientist
Galileo Galilei, the playwright Carlo Goldoni.
4
22
5
1
2
3
4
5
Bagnoli di Sopra, Villa Widmann
Valsanzibio di Galzignano Terme, Villa Barbarigo
St. Elena d’Este, Villa Miari de’ Cumani
Selvazzano, Villa Emo Capodilista La Montecchia
Valsanzibio di Galzignano Terme, Villa Barbarigo
10
23
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:39
Pagina 24
Medieval walled towns.
The ancient town of Cittadella, with its elliptical and perfectly
preserved medieval walls, is one of the most interesting
walled towns in Europe. The settlement started life
as a military outpost of Padua, which founded it in 1220.
The town walls are still intact with a circumference of 1461
m., 12 towers and 12 turrets of various heights, 32 sections
and 12 Guelf merlons. The four major towers correspond to
the four gates: Porta Bassano, Porta Treviso, Porta Vicenza
and Porta Padova (or Porta Nuova, which is decorated by the
town clock and the coat-of-arms of the Commune of Padova
and of the Da Carrara family). Porta Padova incorporates
the Church of St. Maria
del Torresino and the
Torre di Malta, which
was built by Ezzelino
da Romano in 1251 as
a gruesome prison for his
enemies, named also by
Dante in the verses of the
Divina Commedia
(Paradise IX, 54). Besides
the walls Cittadella offers
a lot to visit such as the
works of art inside
the Duomo (cathedral)
and its Museum, the
nineteenth-century Teatro Sociale, with a neo-classical
façade projected by Giuseppe Jappelli, the Town Hall, which
dates back to the 14th century, the Palazzo Pretorio
(Magistrate’s Hall), the Podestà palace and the Archeologic
Museum housed in the Torre di Malta.
Monselice has an enchanting historical centre which
develops around the slopes of the Citadel Hill. The defensive
function and the setting out of the citadel (Rocca) date back
to the Roman times, and was later enlarged and completed
by the Langobards in the fifth century.
2
1
2
3
4
4
24
In the year 1239 the town was further fortified by will of
Emperor Frederic II, who ordered extensive fortification works
and the building of the castle. The town was later contended
by the most important families who dominated the region in
the fourteenth century, the Estensi, the Carraresi and the
Scaligeri until in 1338 it was conquered by the Da Carrara
noble family of Padua. In 1405 following an enervating siege
lasting a full year it became part of the Serenissima Republic
of Venice, a domination which lasted until the end of the
Above, Cittadella, Palazzo Pretorio,
fresco detail
6
of the ‘count’s lion’ you reach the wide panorama of the
rotonda. The Porta Romana (Roman gate) erected in 1651
marks the entry to the Jubilee Sanctuary of the Seven
Churches designed by Vincenzo Scamozzi on commission
from the Duodo Venetian noble family. The mansion of the
Duodo family, Villa Duodo, and a spectacular exedra mark
the end of the route. From here a stairway
and path lead to the top of the hill
(150 m) dominated by the
imposing Mastio Federiciano
3
Cittadella
Cittadella, Bassano Gate
Cittadella, Teatro Sociale
Cittadella, Cathedral
5
1
eighteenth century. The beautiful walk from piazza Mazzini to
the top of the hill reveals the most important historical events
of the town through its main monuments. The first stop is at
the Chiesa di S. Paolo (St. Paul’s church), which keeps an early
medieval crypt with 13th century frescoes. Taking the Via del
Santuario you reach the Castello (Castle) a fortress dating
from the late Middle Ages, re-built by Ezzelino da Romano in
the 13th c., enlarged by the Da Carrara family and transformed
into a residence by the Marcello Venetian noble family.
In 1942 it was made a museum by Count Vittorio Cini who
added a rich collection of arms and furniture. Continuing
the ascent is the 16th century Villa Nani Moncenigo and after it
the old Pieve di St. Giustina, which was consecrated in 1256, it
houses a number of important works or art and a fine
beamed ceiling (1787). After passing through the doorway
(Frederick’s stronghold).
A short drive away is the
elegant town of Este.
Before the year 589 the
river Adige flew through
the town and along its
banks important religious
and cultural Paleovenetian
settlements developed
in pre-roman age.
7
5 Monselice, Villa Duodo
6 Monselice, Castle
7 Monselice, Antica Pieve
of St. Giustina (old cathedral)
8 Monselice, the City Hall
Below, Monselice,
Sanctuary of the Seven
Churches
8
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:39
Pagina 24
Medieval walled towns.
The ancient town of Cittadella, with its elliptical and perfectly
preserved medieval walls, is one of the most interesting
walled towns in Europe. The settlement started life
as a military outpost of Padua, which founded it in 1220.
The town walls are still intact with a circumference of 1461
m., 12 towers and 12 turrets of various heights, 32 sections
and 12 Guelf merlons. The four major towers correspond to
the four gates: Porta Bassano, Porta Treviso, Porta Vicenza
and Porta Padova (or Porta Nuova, which is decorated by the
town clock and the coat-of-arms of the Commune of Padova
and of the Da Carrara family). Porta Padova incorporates
the Church of St. Maria
del Torresino and the
Torre di Malta, which
was built by Ezzelino
da Romano in 1251 as
a gruesome prison for his
enemies, named also by
Dante in the verses of the
Divina Commedia
(Paradise IX, 54). Besides
the walls Cittadella offers
a lot to visit such as the
works of art inside
the Duomo (cathedral)
and its Museum, the
nineteenth-century Teatro Sociale, with a neo-classical
façade projected by Giuseppe Jappelli, the Town Hall, which
dates back to the 14th century, the Palazzo Pretorio
(Magistrate’s Hall), the Podestà palace and the Archeologic
Museum housed in the Torre di Malta.
Monselice has an enchanting historical centre which
develops around the slopes of the Citadel Hill. The defensive
function and the setting out of the citadel (Rocca) date back
to the Roman times, and was later enlarged and completed
by the Langobards in the fifth century.
2
1
2
3
4
4
24
In the year 1239 the town was further fortified by will of
Emperor Frederic II, who ordered extensive fortification works
and the building of the castle. The town was later contended
by the most important families who dominated the region in
the fourteenth century, the Estensi, the Carraresi and the
Scaligeri until in 1338 it was conquered by the Da Carrara
noble family of Padua. In 1405 following an enervating siege
lasting a full year it became part of the Serenissima Republic
of Venice, a domination which lasted until the end of the
Above, Cittadella, Palazzo Pretorio,
fresco detail
6
of the ‘count’s lion’ you reach the wide panorama of the
rotonda. The Porta Romana (Roman gate) erected in 1651
marks the entry to the Jubilee Sanctuary of the Seven
Churches designed by Vincenzo Scamozzi on commission
from the Duodo Venetian noble family. The mansion of the
Duodo family, Villa Duodo, and a spectacular exedra mark
the end of the route. From here a stairway
and path lead to the top of the hill
(150 m) dominated by the
imposing Mastio Federiciano
3
Cittadella
Cittadella, Bassano Gate
Cittadella, Teatro Sociale
Cittadella, Cathedral
5
1
eighteenth century. The beautiful walk from piazza Mazzini to
the top of the hill reveals the most important historical events
of the town through its main monuments. The first stop is at
the Chiesa di S. Paolo (St. Paul’s church), which keeps an early
medieval crypt with 13th century frescoes. Taking the Via del
Santuario you reach the Castello (Castle) a fortress dating
from the late Middle Ages, re-built by Ezzelino da Romano in
the 13th c., enlarged by the Da Carrara family and transformed
into a residence by the Marcello Venetian noble family.
In 1942 it was made a museum by Count Vittorio Cini who
added a rich collection of arms and furniture. Continuing
the ascent is the 16th century Villa Nani Moncenigo and after it
the old Pieve di St. Giustina, which was consecrated in 1256, it
houses a number of important works or art and a fine
beamed ceiling (1787). After passing through the doorway
(Frederick’s stronghold).
A short drive away is the
elegant town of Este.
Before the year 589 the
river Adige flew through
the town and along its
banks important religious
and cultural Paleovenetian
settlements developed
in pre-roman age.
7
5 Monselice, Villa Duodo
6 Monselice, Castle
7 Monselice, Antica Pieve
of St. Giustina (old cathedral)
8 Monselice, the City Hall
Below, Monselice,
Sanctuary of the Seven
Churches
8
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:39
Pagina 26
The town became one of the most important Italian centres
after the year 1000 thanks to the presence of the Estensi
family, who erected their castle and fortified the town.
The circle of walls was later enlarged by the Da Carrara family
and by the Venetians. The fine rooms of the Atestino National
Museum house a great number of items from Paleovenetian
and Roman times, and a beautiful collection of ceramics.
The imposing remains of the castle, which scenographically
descend from the top of the hill downwards for about one
kilometer, are one of the main attractions of the town.
In the 13th century the castle became one of the most
important centres of troubadoric poetry as many Italian
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
2
3
Este, Castle
Este, Situla Benvenuti
Este, Castle
Este, ceramics
Este, Ca’ Pesaro
Este, Atestino
National Museum,
Paleoveneti bronzes
4
and foreign troubadours and ministrels met at the court
of Azzo VI of Este. The religious heritage of the town
is very rich, too. The Cathedral keeps a beautiful painting
by Giambattista Tiepolo (1759) and the tomb of Blessed
Beatrice d’Este, the daughter of the Marquis of Este, who died
in 1226 when she was only 26 years old. Her beauty and
virtue had enchanted many poets, who dedicated their lyrics
to her. The charme of this town attracted poets and artists
even in more recent times: in the 16th century a great
numbers of artists gathered at the dwelling of Alvise Cornaro
a rich and generous patron of art and culture of Venetian
origins; in the 19th century the great romantic English poets
Byron and Shelley spent a long and intense holiday at Villa
Kunkler; the 20th century registered the presence of Bruce
Chatwin and Emma Tennant at Villa Albrizzi.
Este is worldwide famous for the production of artistic
7
ceramics. The last walled town in the south-western part
of the province of Padua is Montagnana. The fortified city
centre remains one of the best preserved and most charming
examples of a walled city in Europe. The walls have
a circumference of about two kilometers with two gates
and 24 towers. St. Zeno Castle, one of the two gates, was
erected in 1242 and now hosts the Town Museum. The other
gate, Rocca degli Alberi, is a real jewel of military architecture.
It was erected in 1360 by the will of Francesco I the Elder
of the Da Carrara family. The narrow porticoed streets of the
town lead to the wide Vittorio Emanuele Square, dominated
by the Cathedral (works of art by Sansovino and Paolo
Veronese inside). Close to Porta Padova is Villa Pisani a work
by Andrea Palladio (1553-1555). Montagnana is situated
at the centre of the Veneto Berico Euganeo Sweet Ham
7 Montagnana,
Palio of the 10 Communes
8 Montagnana,
medieval walls
9 Montagnana,
medieval walls
9
5
26
6
8
production area. The glorious past of these beautiful medieval
towns is recreated in spectacular historical re-enactments
and medieval festivals, during which costumed performers,
musicians, flag-wavers, invade the streets, play games from
the middle ages, compete the palio (horse-race) to win the
prize, and recreate the typical medieval atmosphere in
vigorous and colourful tournaments, picturesque markets
and medieval fayres. The most important medieval events
are: Palio of Trambaque at Cervarese St. Croce Castle (May),
Estensi’s Days in Este (June), Palio of Montagnana (1st Sunday
in September), Rocca’s Joust in Monselice (3rd Sunday
in Semptember) and Voices from the Middle
Ages in Cittadella (end September-early
October). The year ends with the
Medieval New Year in Montagnana
(last Sunday in December).
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:39
Pagina 26
The town became one of the most important Italian centres
after the year 1000 thanks to the presence of the Estensi
family, who erected their castle and fortified the town.
The circle of walls was later enlarged by the Da Carrara family
and by the Venetians. The fine rooms of the Atestino National
Museum house a great number of items from Paleovenetian
and Roman times, and a beautiful collection of ceramics.
The imposing remains of the castle, which scenographically
descend from the top of the hill downwards for about one
kilometer, are one of the main attractions of the town.
In the 13th century the castle became one of the most
important centres of troubadoric poetry as many Italian
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
2
3
Este, Castle
Este, Situla Benvenuti
Este, Castle
Este, ceramics
Este, Ca’ Pesaro
Este, Atestino
National Museum,
Paleoveneti bronzes
4
and foreign troubadours and ministrels met at the court
of Azzo VI of Este. The religious heritage of the town
is very rich, too. The Cathedral keeps a beautiful painting
by Giambattista Tiepolo (1759) and the tomb of Blessed
Beatrice d’Este, the daughter of the Marquis of Este, who died
in 1226 when she was only 26 years old. Her beauty and
virtue had enchanted many poets, who dedicated their lyrics
to her. The charme of this town attracted poets and artists
even in more recent times: in the 16th century a great
numbers of artists gathered at the dwelling of Alvise Cornaro
a rich and generous patron of art and culture of Venetian
origins; in the 19th century the great romantic English poets
Byron and Shelley spent a long and intense holiday at Villa
Kunkler; the 20th century registered the presence of Bruce
Chatwin and Emma Tennant at Villa Albrizzi.
Este is worldwide famous for the production of artistic
7
ceramics. The last walled town in the south-western part
of the province of Padua is Montagnana. The fortified city
centre remains one of the best preserved and most charming
examples of a walled city in Europe. The walls have
a circumference of about two kilometers with two gates
and 24 towers. St. Zeno Castle, one of the two gates, was
erected in 1242 and now hosts the Town Museum. The other
gate, Rocca degli Alberi, is a real jewel of military architecture.
It was erected in 1360 by the will of Francesco I the Elder
of the Da Carrara family. The narrow porticoed streets of the
town lead to the wide Vittorio Emanuele Square, dominated
by the Cathedral (works of art by Sansovino and Paolo
Veronese inside). Close to Porta Padova is Villa Pisani a work
by Andrea Palladio (1553-1555). Montagnana is situated
at the centre of the Veneto Berico Euganeo Sweet Ham
7 Montagnana,
Palio of the 10 Communes
8 Montagnana,
medieval walls
9 Montagnana,
medieval walls
9
5
26
6
8
production area. The glorious past of these beautiful medieval
towns is recreated in spectacular historical re-enactments
and medieval festivals, during which costumed performers,
musicians, flag-wavers, invade the streets, play games from
the middle ages, compete the palio (horse-race) to win the
prize, and recreate the typical medieval atmosphere in
vigorous and colourful tournaments, picturesque markets
and medieval fayres. The most important medieval events
are: Palio of Trambaque at Cervarese St. Croce Castle (May),
Estensi’s Days in Este (June), Palio of Montagnana (1st Sunday
in September), Rocca’s Joust in Monselice (3rd Sunday
in Semptember) and Voices from the Middle
Ages in Cittadella (end September-early
October). The year ends with the
Medieval New Year in Montagnana
(last Sunday in December).
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:39
Pagina 28
The Euganean Hills and other natural oases.
The gentle landscapes of the Euganean Hills are one of the
main attractions and tourist destinations of the Paduan
territory. Their peculiar skyline created by the sequence
of about 100 hills of varying heights and shapes immediately catches the traveller’s eye. The hills arose during the
volcanic activity in the Tertiary Era (between 30 and 40
million year ago) and are characterized by a special
ecosystem, where different varieties of vegetation - from
the typical Mediterranean shrublands to chestnut groves
and mixed oak woods - unfold around the slopes of the
hills. The Mount Venda (601 mt.) is the highest mountain
and marks the centre of the hills. Protected since 1989
by the Colli Euganei Regional Park, the Euganean Hills
cover nearly 20,000 hectares.
The climate is particularly mild and allows extensive wine
and oil-growing with excellent results: there are a full 13
D.O.C. (Denomination of Controlled Origin) wines including
the well-known Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon,
Chardonnay, Serprino and Moscato Fior
d’Arancio. Other typical products
of the hills are honey, cheese and
seasonal fruits (chestnuts, cherries,
peas, and jujubes). Local feasts
and village festivals celebrate
these products, among
them the Grape Festival,
which takes place every
year in September
in Vo’ Euganeo. The Park
counts 15 towns and
villages with great natural
and historical heritage.
The gem of the hills is the medieval village of Arquà
Petrarca, where time seems to stand still, keeping the magic
of the Middle Ages intact. Its peaceful atmosphere attracted
the great Italian poet Francesco Petrarca, who spent here
the last years of his life. The enchanting landscape of the
hills has attracted and inspired generations of poets, writers
and artists: from the provençal troubadours, who gathered
at the Estensi court in the 12th century to the most
important Italian and foreign writers of the past centuries
such as Byron, Shelley, Foscolo, Fogazzaro and Bruce
Chatwin. Following one of the numerous signposted
pathways of the Parco Colli is an excellent way to discover
the magic of this unique natural oasis. Either by bicycle
or on foot or even on horseback you will admire
the Hills’rich flora, the wide extents of vineyards, meadows,
olive-yards and woods and visit historical monuments
and museums. Some places are ideal to observe the little
inhabitants of the wood, in particular slow-worms, spotted
salamanders, cuckoos, sparrow-hawks, badgers, foxes and
stonemartens. Leaving the Euganean Hills and going
eastwards, you meet the green Saccisica, which together
with the Conselvano form a fertile countryside,
3 4
1 Torreglia,
Villa Tolomei estate
2 Portrait of Francesco
Petrarca
Below, The Euganean Hills,
view of Teolo Church
5
1
2
rich in multi-coloured fields and orchards, crossed by
an extraordinary network of waterways. This territory
has always been the Paduan countryside and the beloved
hinterland and “endless granary” of the Venetian nobility.
The rural landscape is characterized by the presence
of numerous country-houses, villas and mansions, old
Benedictine courts. It was thanks to the presence
of the monks that vast areas of marshy land were reclaimed
and destined to agricultural purposes with the introduction
of new cultivation systems. The Correzzola Benedictine
Court, now partially transformed into hotel, and the
Legnaro Court, now meeting centre, are among the best
preserved medieval courts.
Travelling through this part of
the paduan province, it is easy
to see the casoni, the typical
rural houses of the area, which
were originally built with very
simple materials such as clay,
reeds, straw and wood.
Some casoni have been
recently restored and are now
part of the cultural heritage
of the province of Padua.
7
Other distinctive buildings of this area are the idrovora
(water-scooping machines), works of hydraulics especially
built in the 19th century to avoid floods and now
considered noteworthy examples of industrial archaeology.
At the far south-eastern borders of the Saccisica
the territory includes a portion of lagoon, the Valle
Millecampi: 1,581 hectares of typical lagoon environment
with canals of fresh water, stretches of brackish water,
typical lagoon islets submerged at regular interval,
which create an environment of great naturalistic
and anthropological interest. The inhabitants of this part
of the province are very proud of their ancient traditions
6
and rural origins, which they often celebrate during
popular feasts and ‘sagre’ (village festivals) dedicated
to the agricultural produce such as the famous sweet
potato of Anguillara, the radicchio of Maserà, the grappa
of Conselve and the DOC wines.
3
4
5
6
7
The Euganean Hills at sunset
Valle Millecampi
Orchard on the Euganean Hills
Saccisica, view of the countryside
Cinto Euganeo, former Cava Bomba kiln, now Museum
29
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:39
Pagina 28
The Euganean Hills and other natural oases.
The gentle landscapes of the Euganean Hills are one of the
main attractions and tourist destinations of the Paduan
territory. Their peculiar skyline created by the sequence
of about 100 hills of varying heights and shapes immediately catches the traveller’s eye. The hills arose during the
volcanic activity in the Tertiary Era (between 30 and 40
million year ago) and are characterized by a special
ecosystem, where different varieties of vegetation - from
the typical Mediterranean shrublands to chestnut groves
and mixed oak woods - unfold around the slopes of the
hills. The Mount Venda (601 mt.) is the highest mountain
and marks the centre of the hills. Protected since 1989
by the Colli Euganei Regional Park, the Euganean Hills
cover nearly 20,000 hectares.
The climate is particularly mild and allows extensive wine
and oil-growing with excellent results: there are a full 13
D.O.C. (Denomination of Controlled Origin) wines including
the well-known Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon,
Chardonnay, Serprino and Moscato Fior
d’Arancio. Other typical products
of the hills are honey, cheese and
seasonal fruits (chestnuts, cherries,
peas, and jujubes). Local feasts
and village festivals celebrate
these products, among
them the Grape Festival,
which takes place every
year in September
in Vo’ Euganeo. The Park
counts 15 towns and
villages with great natural
and historical heritage.
The gem of the hills is the medieval village of Arquà
Petrarca, where time seems to stand still, keeping the magic
of the Middle Ages intact. Its peaceful atmosphere attracted
the great Italian poet Francesco Petrarca, who spent here
the last years of his life. The enchanting landscape of the
hills has attracted and inspired generations of poets, writers
and artists: from the provençal troubadours, who gathered
at the Estensi court in the 12th century to the most
important Italian and foreign writers of the past centuries
such as Byron, Shelley, Foscolo, Fogazzaro and Bruce
Chatwin. Following one of the numerous signposted
pathways of the Parco Colli is an excellent way to discover
the magic of this unique natural oasis. Either by bicycle
or on foot or even on horseback you will admire
the Hills’rich flora, the wide extents of vineyards, meadows,
olive-yards and woods and visit historical monuments
and museums. Some places are ideal to observe the little
inhabitants of the wood, in particular slow-worms, spotted
salamanders, cuckoos, sparrow-hawks, badgers, foxes and
stonemartens. Leaving the Euganean Hills and going
eastwards, you meet the green Saccisica, which together
with the Conselvano form a fertile countryside,
3 4
1 Torreglia,
Villa Tolomei estate
2 Portrait of Francesco
Petrarca
Below, The Euganean Hills,
view of Teolo Church
5
1
2
rich in multi-coloured fields and orchards, crossed by
an extraordinary network of waterways. This territory
has always been the Paduan countryside and the beloved
hinterland and “endless granary” of the Venetian nobility.
The rural landscape is characterized by the presence
of numerous country-houses, villas and mansions, old
Benedictine courts. It was thanks to the presence
of the monks that vast areas of marshy land were reclaimed
and destined to agricultural purposes with the introduction
of new cultivation systems. The Correzzola Benedictine
Court, now partially transformed into hotel, and the
Legnaro Court, now meeting centre, are among the best
preserved medieval courts.
Travelling through this part of
the paduan province, it is easy
to see the casoni, the typical
rural houses of the area, which
were originally built with very
simple materials such as clay,
reeds, straw and wood.
Some casoni have been
recently restored and are now
part of the cultural heritage
of the province of Padua.
7
Other distinctive buildings of this area are the idrovora
(water-scooping machines), works of hydraulics especially
built in the 19th century to avoid floods and now
considered noteworthy examples of industrial archaeology.
At the far south-eastern borders of the Saccisica
the territory includes a portion of lagoon, the Valle
Millecampi: 1,581 hectares of typical lagoon environment
with canals of fresh water, stretches of brackish water,
typical lagoon islets submerged at regular interval,
which create an environment of great naturalistic
and anthropological interest. The inhabitants of this part
of the province are very proud of their ancient traditions
6
and rural origins, which they often celebrate during
popular feasts and ‘sagre’ (village festivals) dedicated
to the agricultural produce such as the famous sweet
potato of Anguillara, the radicchio of Maserà, the grappa
of Conselve and the DOC wines.
3
4
5
6
7
The Euganean Hills at sunset
Valle Millecampi
Orchard on the Euganean Hills
Saccisica, view of the countryside
Cinto Euganeo, former Cava Bomba kiln, now Museum
29
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:39
Pagina 30
On the table the flavours of a generous land.
“Going for food and wine
in the Paduan territory
means going for surprises
and nostalgia such as one
would never find elsewhere”
Orio Vergani,
Writer and journalist
The Paduan cuisine combines high quality
ingredients with a traditional simple way
of cooking. A great variety of seasonal products
feeds it in its diversity of lagoons, valleys, hills,
fluvial and on the plain. Tasteful examples
of the typical Paduan cuisine are the numerous minestre
maridae (soups with rice and pasta), pasta e fasoi
(pasta and beans), risi e bisi (rice and peas), rice
with chiken livers, rice with pumpkin, vegetable soup,
sausages and luganeghe with polenta, quails and game
of the plain and of the Po Delta, tripe and baccalà (stockfish)
Honey is produced both in the Millefiori (obtained from
different types of flowers) and in the one-flower variety,
in particular acacia and chestnut honey.
Among the starters, the famous bigoli, especially
those seasoned with duck ragout, deserve
a mention. A specialty of Torreglia are
the torresani (tower doves).
The oenogastronomic tradition of the
Euganean Hills can be discovered through
the itineraries and suggestions of the Strada
del Vino Colli Euganei (Euganean Hills
Wine Route Association). The cooking
of the Montagnana and Este districts are
influenced by the near Polesine area.
Tasteful and simple it is based on genuine local
products: rice, truffle, game and pig. Actually this
is the area of the rites connected with the butchering
of the pig and from it come forth the most unthought-of
creations, such as codesini (tails), bondiola col lengual
(sausage with tongue), soppresse, luganeghe, etc, but the most
famous of all, is the Prosciutto Veneto Berico Euganeo better
known as Montagnana
sweet raw ham. One of the
most ancient recipes of this
district is the oca in onto
(goose), a dish which is
rarely served today and
based on the conservation
of goose cuts in their fat.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1 2
with white or yellow polenta. In spring and in autumn nature
helps create special flavours, offering numerous varieties
of wild herbs and undergrowth products which are used
in risottos, omelettes, stuffings and traditional cakes.
The Euganean Hills are a real and true mine of wild herbs,
excellent wines and oils. The area boasts thirteen D.O.C. wines,
the quality carefully controlled and certified by the Consorzio
Vini Colli Euganei. The area also has a long tradition of oil
production. Documents report of the existence of an oil-mill
already in the 14th century, and the still existing and working
oil-mill in Valnogaredo dates back to the 18th century.
The oil has a particularly fruity flavour and an after taste
that hints of sweet almonds.
30
3
9
10
Typical products
Schissotto bread
Bondiola sausage
Typical Wine-cellar
of the Euganean Hills
Jujubes specialities
Polverara hen
Padovana hen
Veneto Berico Euganeo
Raw Sweet Ham
Old crafts, besoms
Grape-gathering time
4
5
6
7
8
The traditional list
of desserts includes
the zaleti (biscuits made
with maize porridge flour)
and the Pazientini, biscuits
made with almonds
and hazel-nuts.
The south-eastern area
of the Paduan Province,
the so called Saccisica,
a green land characterised
by wide expanses of fields
and a huge number
of farms, is the reign
of the Friularo Wine and
of poultry. Ducks, geese,
wild ducks, but above all the famous Polverara hen, which,
together with the Paduan hen are considered the best Italian
chickens. The closeness to the lagoon influences the cuisine
of the area. It is not rare to find restaurants which include in
their menus fish specialties (both sea and river fish, but also
frogs), together with game or roasts. Dishes made with horse
or pony meat are a peculiar culinary tradition of this territory.
The typical dishes of the Alta Padovana (northern part
of the Province) are strictly linked to the local tradition
and based on seasonal products. Here the polenta is truly
queen, also in its sweet version (polentina). Even though
in this part of the province there is a great fervour
of gastronomic initiative, there survives a widespread
respect to tradition and it is still possible to find polenta
e osei (polenta with small quail birds cooked on a spit),
arna rosta (roasted duck), marsoni fritti (fried fish),
and the luccio (pike) of the Brenta river.
Dishes of game, baccalà and radicchio (lettuce-type
vegetable but purplish red in colour) are also frequently
served in this area. The abundance of water and the wide
extent of permanent meadows encourage the production
of excellent cheese, such as Asiago, Montasio
and Grana Padano.
9 10
Arts and Crafts.
Padua and its province boast a rich tradition of handicrafts - it
can truly be considered an “artisan province”.
The origins of all the main handicraft sectors, such
as ironwork, copperwork (wrought and embossed), casting
copper (the Situla Benvenuti displayed at the Atestino
National Museum is a pre-Roman masterpiece of copper
working). Other distinctive crafts of the area are the enamel
painting of home accessories, the ceramics production
(of great value the Estensi’s ones), the production
of wooden furniture, the restoration
of antique furniture (this activity is very
diffused in the Montagnana area).
A great importance has also the jewellery
sector. The textile craft, which was
the main source of Paduan
medieval economy, continues
in a springing up of knitwear
and textile factories, needle-work
and tanning.
Typical handicrafts can be admired
on the occasion of the numerous
arts&crafts exhibitions and fairs
or during local feasts and festivals,
when great attention is often dedicated
to this sector.
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:39
Pagina 30
On the table the flavours of a generous land.
“Going for food and wine
in the Paduan territory
means going for surprises
and nostalgia such as one
would never find elsewhere”
Orio Vergani,
Writer and journalist
The Paduan cuisine combines high quality
ingredients with a traditional simple way
of cooking. A great variety of seasonal products
feeds it in its diversity of lagoons, valleys, hills,
fluvial and on the plain. Tasteful examples
of the typical Paduan cuisine are the numerous minestre
maridae (soups with rice and pasta), pasta e fasoi
(pasta and beans), risi e bisi (rice and peas), rice
with chiken livers, rice with pumpkin, vegetable soup,
sausages and luganeghe with polenta, quails and game
of the plain and of the Po Delta, tripe and baccalà (stockfish)
Honey is produced both in the Millefiori (obtained from
different types of flowers) and in the one-flower variety,
in particular acacia and chestnut honey.
Among the starters, the famous bigoli, especially
those seasoned with duck ragout, deserve
a mention. A specialty of Torreglia are
the torresani (tower doves).
The oenogastronomic tradition of the
Euganean Hills can be discovered through
the itineraries and suggestions of the Strada
del Vino Colli Euganei (Euganean Hills
Wine Route Association). The cooking
of the Montagnana and Este districts are
influenced by the near Polesine area.
Tasteful and simple it is based on genuine local
products: rice, truffle, game and pig. Actually this
is the area of the rites connected with the butchering
of the pig and from it come forth the most unthought-of
creations, such as codesini (tails), bondiola col lengual
(sausage with tongue), soppresse, luganeghe, etc, but the most
famous of all, is the Prosciutto Veneto Berico Euganeo better
known as Montagnana
sweet raw ham. One of the
most ancient recipes of this
district is the oca in onto
(goose), a dish which is
rarely served today and
based on the conservation
of goose cuts in their fat.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1 2
with white or yellow polenta. In spring and in autumn nature
helps create special flavours, offering numerous varieties
of wild herbs and undergrowth products which are used
in risottos, omelettes, stuffings and traditional cakes.
The Euganean Hills are a real and true mine of wild herbs,
excellent wines and oils. The area boasts thirteen D.O.C. wines,
the quality carefully controlled and certified by the Consorzio
Vini Colli Euganei. The area also has a long tradition of oil
production. Documents report of the existence of an oil-mill
already in the 14th century, and the still existing and working
oil-mill in Valnogaredo dates back to the 18th century.
The oil has a particularly fruity flavour and an after taste
that hints of sweet almonds.
30
3
9
10
Typical products
Schissotto bread
Bondiola sausage
Typical Wine-cellar
of the Euganean Hills
Jujubes specialities
Polverara hen
Padovana hen
Veneto Berico Euganeo
Raw Sweet Ham
Old crafts, besoms
Grape-gathering time
4
5
6
7
8
The traditional list
of desserts includes
the zaleti (biscuits made
with maize porridge flour)
and the Pazientini, biscuits
made with almonds
and hazel-nuts.
The south-eastern area
of the Paduan Province,
the so called Saccisica,
a green land characterised
by wide expanses of fields
and a huge number
of farms, is the reign
of the Friularo Wine and
of poultry. Ducks, geese,
wild ducks, but above all the famous Polverara hen, which,
together with the Paduan hen are considered the best Italian
chickens. The closeness to the lagoon influences the cuisine
of the area. It is not rare to find restaurants which include in
their menus fish specialties (both sea and river fish, but also
frogs), together with game or roasts. Dishes made with horse
or pony meat are a peculiar culinary tradition of this territory.
The typical dishes of the Alta Padovana (northern part
of the Province) are strictly linked to the local tradition
and based on seasonal products. Here the polenta is truly
queen, also in its sweet version (polentina). Even though
in this part of the province there is a great fervour
of gastronomic initiative, there survives a widespread
respect to tradition and it is still possible to find polenta
e osei (polenta with small quail birds cooked on a spit),
arna rosta (roasted duck), marsoni fritti (fried fish),
and the luccio (pike) of the Brenta river.
Dishes of game, baccalà and radicchio (lettuce-type
vegetable but purplish red in colour) are also frequently
served in this area. The abundance of water and the wide
extent of permanent meadows encourage the production
of excellent cheese, such as Asiago, Montasio
and Grana Padano.
9 10
Arts and Crafts.
Padua and its province boast a rich tradition of handicrafts - it
can truly be considered an “artisan province”.
The origins of all the main handicraft sectors, such
as ironwork, copperwork (wrought and embossed), casting
copper (the Situla Benvenuti displayed at the Atestino
National Museum is a pre-Roman masterpiece of copper
working). Other distinctive crafts of the area are the enamel
painting of home accessories, the ceramics production
(of great value the Estensi’s ones), the production
of wooden furniture, the restoration
of antique furniture (this activity is very
diffused in the Montagnana area).
A great importance has also the jewellery
sector. The textile craft, which was
the main source of Paduan
medieval economy, continues
in a springing up of knitwear
and textile factories, needle-work
and tanning.
Typical handicrafts can be admired
on the occasion of the numerous
arts&crafts exhibitions and fairs
or during local feasts and festivals,
when great attention is often dedicated
to this sector.
2647_05_C415_PADOVA_GB
17-05-2006
10:36
Pagina A
Realized with the contribution of
www.turismopadova.it
PADOVA (PADUA)
Cittadella
Stazione FS / Railway Station
Tel. +39 049 8752077 - Fax +39 049 8755008
Porta Bassanese
Tel. +39 049 9404485 - Fax +39 049 5972754
Galleria Pedrocchi
Tel. +39 049 8767927 - Fax +39 049 8363316
Este
Piazza del Santo
Tel. +39 049 8753087 (April-October)
Monselice
Via P. d'Abano, 18
Tel. +39 049 8669055 - Fax +39 049 8669053
Mon-Sat 8.30-13.00 / 14.30-19.00
Sun 10.00-13.00 / 15.00-18.00
(sundays opening only during high season)
Viale Stazione, 60
Tel. +39 049 8928311 - Fax +39 049 795276
Mon-Sat 8.30-13.00 / 14.30-19.00
nd
2 Sun 10.00-13.00 / 15.00-18.00
(sundays opening only during high season)
Montagnana
Castel S. Zeno
Tel. +39 0429 81320 - Fax +39 0429 81320
Teolo
c/o Palazzetto dei Vicari
Tel. +39 049 9925680 - Fax +39 049 9900264
Seasonal opening
TREVISO
AIRPORT
MOTORWAY EXITS
Battaglia Terme
TOWNS
Via Maggiore, 2
Tel. +39 049 526909 - Fax +39 049 9101328
Seasonal opening
EUGANEAN HILLS
VENEZIA
AIRPORT
Travelling to Padua:
DIRECTION MILANO
DIRECTION TRIESTE
A4
RWAY
MOTO
MOTORWAY A13
By Air: Venice, Marco Polo Airport (approx. 60 km. away)
By Rail: Padua Train Station
By Road: Motorway A13 Padua-Bologna: exit Padua Sud-Terme Euganee.
Motorway A4 Venice-Milano: exit Padua Ovest, Padua Est
MOTO
RWAY
A4
VERONA
AIRPORT
DIRECTION BOLOGNA
Riviera dei Mugnai, 8
35137 PADOVA
Tel. +39.049.8767911
Fax +39.049.650794
www.turismopadova.it
[email protected]
Provincia
di Padova
Parco Regionale
dei Colli Euganei
© Photos: Archivio Turismo Padova Terme Euganee, Consorzio Pro Loco del Cittadellese, Consorzio Terme Euganee, Consorzio Battellieri Padova, F. e M. Danesin,
Gabinetto Fotografico del Comune di Padova, A. Getuli, M. Lasalandra, G. Mattoschi, F. Meneghetti, Messaggero S. Antonio, Museo del Precinema,
Museo Diocesano di Padova, Museo Nazionale Atestino, Ottica La Fotografica, Parco Regionale Colli Euganei, F. Rossi, F. Sabbion, L. Tomasin.
P
adova.
July 2006
Via del Santuario, 2
Tel. +39 0429 783026 - Fax +39 0429 783026
Abano Terme
Montegrotto Terme
Via G. Negri, 9
Tel. +39 0429 600462 - Fax +39 0429 611105
Discover
Padua and its
surroundings.

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