Certosa di Pavia: A Lombard Masterpiece
Discover the Certosa di Pavia, a stunning monastery showcasing Gothic and Renaissance art, peaceful cloisters, and a rich spiritual heritage.
The Certosa di Pavia, or Monastery of Pavia, is a breathtaking monument located in Lombardy, about 8 kilometers north of the city of Pavia. Conceived as a family mausoleum by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, the Duke of Milan, construction began in 1396 and continued for over 50 years, resulting in a fascinating blend of late-Gothic and Renaissance styles. The facade is a highlight, adorned with sculptures, carvings, and inlaid marble patterns. The interior of the church features a nave with soaring vaults, side aisles, and a painted dome. Visitors can explore the two cloisters, the Small Cloister offering a more secluded, intimate space. The monastery also houses the Museo della Certosa, displaying sculptures, altarpieces, and paintings from the 14th to 19th centuries. Originally home to Carthusian monks known for their strict, solitary lifestyle, the monastery later housed Cistercian monks who continue to preserve the spiritual life within its walls. Visitors can explore the monks' cells, each with its own garden, and purchase herbal liqueurs, soaps, and scents made by the monks. The Certosa di Pavia offers a unique experience, combining art, history, nature, and spirituality.
Local tips
- Dress respectfully when visiting the Certosa di Pavia, as it is a sacred place. Avoid wearing short skirts, shorts, and tank tops.
- Consider taking a guided tour led by a monk to discover the secrets and history of the Certosa.
- Visit the museum to see sculptures and altarpieces that have been removed from the church over the centuries.
- Check the opening hours before your visit, as they vary depending on the season.
- Explore the shop to purchase traditional souvenirs and natural products made by the monks.
A brief summary to Certosa di Pavia
- Via del Monumento, 4, Certosa di Pavia, Province of Pavia, 27012, IT
- +390382925613
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-11:30 am
- Wednesday 9 am-11:30 am
- Thursday 9 am-11:30 am
- Friday 9 am-11:30 am
- Saturday 9 am-11:30 am
- Sunday 9 am-11:30 am
Getting There
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Train
From Milan, take the Trenord S13 train from Milano Porta Garibaldi, Milano Centrale, Milano Porta Venezia, or Milano Rogoredo station to Certosa di Pavia station. The journey takes approximately 20-47 minutes, and a one-way ticket costs around €4. From Certosa di Pavia station, walk straight ahead, following the wall surrounding the monastery on the right side. The walk to the Certosa entrance is approximately 1 km and takes about 15-20 minutes.
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Bus
From Pavia, take the Autoguidovie bus from Via Trieste, in front of the Pavia train station, towards Milan. From Milan, the bus departs from Viale Famagosta. The bus service runs regularly, approximately every half hour. Get off at the Certosa Pav. - Certosa (Monumento) bus stop, which is a 13-minute walk (960 meters) from the Certosa di Pavia. Check the Autoguidovie website for the most up-to-date schedules.
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Car
From Milan, take the A7 motorway towards Genoa and exit at Binasco. Alternatively, take the SS35 country road. From Pavia, take the SS35 towards Milan. Once in Certosa di Pavia, follow Viale Monumento to the Certosa. Free parking is available near the monastery entrance. Parking is also available in the Oratorio parking lot just outside the entrance to the Certosa di Pavia monastery. The parking fee is €1 per hour for cars and motorcycles, with a maximum daily rate of €5.
