The Majestic Piazza del Santo: Heart of Padua
Discover the enchanting Piazza del Santo in Padua, where history, art, and culture converge in a breathtaking architectural setting.
Piazza del Santo, located in the heart of Padua, is a captivating destination that embodies the rich cultural tapestry of this historic city. The square is dominated by the magnificent Basilica di Sant'Antonio, a striking example of medieval architecture adorned with intricate sculptures and frescoes. This basilica draws visitors not only for its architectural beauty but also for its spiritual significance, being one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Italy. A visit to the basilica provides an immersive experience into the life of Saint Anthony, with his tomb located within the church, further enhancing its allure for tourists. Surrounding the piazza, you'll find a variety of charming cafes and shops that invite you to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The lively ambiance is enhanced by street performers and local artisans showcasing their crafts, making it a perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon. As you wander through the piazza, take a moment to appreciate the stunning details of the surrounding buildings, each with its unique story and architectural style. The blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque influences creates a visually captivating experience that is quintessentially Padua. Don't forget to explore the nearby attractions, such as the Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe, and the historic University of Padua, which is just a short walk away. The Piazza del Santo serves as a central hub from which you can delve deeper into the city's rich history and vibrant culture, making it an essential stop on your Padua itinerary.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and take stunning photos without the crowds.
- Check the schedule for any local events or markets that may be happening in the piazza during your visit.
- Try a local pastry at one of the cafes; the 'baba' and 'sfogliatella' are must-tries!
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will likely spend a lot of time walking around the square and nearby attractions.
A brief summary to Piazza del Santo
- Padua, Province of Padua, 35123, IT
Getting There
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Vaporetto
From Venice, head to the nearest Vaporetto stop, such as 'San Marco Vallaresso' or 'Rialto'. Take the Vaporetto Line 1 towards 'S. Zaccaria'. Get off at 'Piazza dei Signori'. From there, walk straight towards 'Piazza del Santo'. It is about a 15-minute walk. Follow the signs towards the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, which is located in 'Piazza del Santo'.
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Walking
If you are near the central area of Venice, you can walk to 'Piazza del Santo'. Head towards 'Piazza San Marco' and then follow the signs towards 'Rialto'. From 'Rialto', continue walking straight until you reach the 'Piazza dei Signori', where you’ll find signs pointing to 'Piazza del Santo'. It’s about a 30-minute walk from 'Piazza San Marco'.
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Bus
If you prefer to take a bus, you can go to Piazzale Roma in Venice. From there, take a regional bus towards Padua. The bus ride will take approximately 40 minutes. Once you arrive at the Padua bus station, you can either walk or take a local bus to 'Piazza del Santo'. It's about a 15-minute walk from the bus station.
Attractions Nearby to Piazza del Santo
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Scoletta del Santo
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Confraternity of St. Anthony of Padua
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The Basilica of St. Anthony
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Cattedrale di Padova
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Chiostro del Capitolo
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Convento del Santo - Frati Minori Conventuali
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Chiostro del Generale
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University of Padua Botanical Garden
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Giardino di Palazzo Giacomini Romiati
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Museum of Precinema
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Prato della Valle
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Statua di Antenore
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Prato della Valle, 112
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MUSME
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Piazza Prato della Valle
Landmarks nearby to Piazza del Santo
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Loggia e Odeo Cornaro
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District of the Ancient Jewish Ghetto
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Piazza dei Signori
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Liviano Palace
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Piazza Eremitani
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Giardini dell'Arena
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Cat Bastion
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Parco Urbano Termale
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Borgo fluviale di Pontemanco
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Villa Duodo
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Termine - Eretto come confine nel 1375 tra i territori di Padova e Venezia.
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Cittadella
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Veneto Segreto
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Gianni Aricò, Fontana dei mestieri, 1986, statue bronzee
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Castelfranco Veneto