Top Rated Attractions in Padua

The Cappella degli Scrovegni in Padua, Italy, is a small yet significant church boasting a masterpiece of Western art. Built in the early 14th century, it houses a remarkable cycle of frescoes by Giotto di Bondone, completed in 1305. These frescoes are widely celebrated for their innovative techniques and emotional depth and are considered a turning point in the development of Italian painting. It is interesting to note that the chapel enjoys the status of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The chapel, named after its patron Enrico Scrovegni, is a must-see for any visitor interested in art history or medieval culture. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity.

The Pontifical Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua is a revered Catholic church in Padua, Italy. Dedicated to Saint Anthony, a renowned Franciscan friar, the Basilica serves as a pilgrimage destination for millions worldwide. Construction began in 1232, shortly after Saint Anthony's death, and was completed by 1310. The Basilica's architecture blends Romanesque, Byzantine, and Gothic styles. Inside the tomb of Saint Anthony, you can find a collection of frescoes that are truly worth admiring. This church is a must-visit for history as well as art lovers.

Together, with the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, Palazzo della Ragione is a symbol of the city. Built in the 13th Century CE, it is called the Salone, because of its large room with its wooden vaulted ceiling (destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries), making it the largest undivided hall in the world. The piazza and the bustling daily market are dominated by its loggia. It was a real layman's center in the city. Justice was carried out in the upper rooms, adorned with frescoes of astrological depictions (perhaps even by Giotto). If the sentence was serious, the accused would be taken to one of the local prisons. The building also houses a large wooden horse that Annibale Capodilista had made for a merry-go-round and then donated to the city. On the ground floor, traditional commercial activities took place, as they still do today.

Home to the university since the 16th Century, the building dates back to the same time, and was then renovated in the 20th Century. The best-preserved area is the interior courtyard, with its porticoes decorated with coats of arms of the noble families, to which the students belonged. It housed the first anatomical theater in the world (1594) and the desk of Galileo Galilei, a teacher of mathematics. Hours vary as per season and guided tours are also available on weekdays and subject to availability.

One of the most prominent squares in Padua is Piazza dei Signori. Surrounded by medieval houses on all sides, this rectangular Piazza provides great insight into the Renaissance era architecture. However, the main attraction here is the clock tower, which can be called the crowning jewel of this famous square. Apart from that, the piazza has also hosted several events, tournaments and celebrations over the years. During the morning, you will find the piazza transformed into a vibrant market whilst in the afternoon it feels more relaxed and you can enjoy a delicious meal in one of the cafes.

The Museum of the History of Medicine (MUSME) is a renowned institution that showcases the rich history of medicine and healthcare. It houses a captivating collection of artifacts, documents, and medical instruments that trace the evolution of medical practices from ancient times to the present day. The museum also sheds light on the significant contributions made by the University of Padua's medical school. The critically acclaimed museum utilizes cutting-edge technology, so visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the extraordinary story of medicine's evolution. Children particularly enjoy playful storytelling and interactive experiences. The exhibits engage all five senses and offer an experience that adapts to each visitor.