Padova, also known as Pádua in Portuguese, is a city located in the Veneto region, in northern Italy, and is one of the oldest cities in the country.
Its history dates back to Roman times, when the city was an important commercial and cultural center.
With the founding of University of Padova in 1222, the city stood out as a center of studies in the Middle Ages.
Over the centuries, the province of Padua went through several political changes, eventually joining the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century.
Today, Padua is known for its rich cultural and religious heritage, including the Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, and its medieval walls.
Furthermore, the region is famous for its gastronomy, highlighting dishes such as radicchio risotto and Baccalà alla vicentina (Vincentina-style cod).
In this article, we will explore the history and curiosities that make Padua a jewel in Italy's crown, offering a unique cultural and historical journey.
The importance of immigration from Padua to Brazil
Italian immigration to Brazil in the late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a fundamental chapter in the country's history. Many Italians, including numerous Padovanos, left their homeland in search of a new beginning in Brazil.
The province of Padua (comprising 104 cities), with its vibrant agricultural economy and rich cultural heritage, played a crucial role in this migratory movement. The Padovans who landed in Brazil contributed to the construction of the foundations of cities in the interior of São Paulo and Paraná, for example, leaving a lasting cultural mark.
Today, many Brazilians have Padova roots and keep Italian traditions alive, from family celebrations to the preservation of typical cuisine.
It is notable how common surnames in the province of Padua played a significant role in the formation of Brazilian communities. Citizens with surnames such as Schiavon, Rampazzo, Varotto, Carraro, Paccagnella, Rossi, Bortolami, Calore, Salmaso and Mazzucato undertook a transatlantic journey in search of new perspectives in Brazil.
What to do in Padua
For those who want to get to know the city of Padua, there are many interesting tourist attractions to visit. Here is a one-day itinerary for exploring this charming Italian city:
Padua historic center
Start the day by exploring the historic center of Padua, known as the “Old Town”. Wander the narrow streets and admire medieval architecture, including St. Anthony's Basilica and the Scrovegni Chapel, home to some of the world's most important works of art, including frescoes by Giotto.
University of Padova
Visit one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Padova, founded in 1222. Explore the beautiful courtyards and gardens and learn about the city's rich academic history.
Piazza Prato della Valle
Visit one of the largest squares in Europe, surrounded by a canal and adorned with 78 statues of historical figures.
Jardim Botânico
Discover one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, with a wide variety of plants and flowers.
Local dish
Be sure to try the Baccalà alla vicentina served with polenta, a traditional dish from Padua. Local restaurants offer delicious versions that combine the flavor of the sea with the richness of Italian cuisine.
Curiosities and illustrious personalities of Padua
Padua is a city rich in history and culture. In addition to its natural and architectural beauties, the city has several curiosities and illustrious personalities:
- Galileo Galilei: The famous astronomer Galileo Galilei taught at the University of Padova in the early 17th century, contributing significantly to astronomy and science.
- Café Pedrocchi: Founded in 1831, Café Pedrocchi is one of Padua's most famous cafés, known for its opulent decor and intriguing history.
- Giuseppe Verdi: Renowned Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi was born on the outskirts of Padua, leaving a lasting legacy on Italian musical culture.
- Basilica of Saint Anthony: The city is also famous for being home to the Basilica of Saint Anthony, one of the main Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Saint Anthony of Padua, or Saint Anthony of Lisbon, is one of the most venerated and well-known saints of the Catholic Church. His remains are buried in the Basilica, and the city has a deep devotion to him.
Padua is much more than just a picturesque Italian city; it is a place where history, culture and cuisine merge to create a unique experience.
For Padovan descendants in Brazil, Padua remains an essential part of their Italian heritage.
The 10 largest cities in the province of Padua
Here are the 10 largest cities in the province of Padua, along with their estimated populations:
Padua: With just over 210 thousand inhabitants, the city of Padua is the largest and the capital of the province, known for its rich history and culture.
Albignasego: With around 26 thousand inhabitants, it is on the outskirts of Padua and is known for its tranquility and welcoming community.
Selvazzano Inside: It has around 23 thousand inhabitants and combines rural landscapes with urban amenities.
Vigonza: The city, with around 23 thousand inhabitants, provides its residents with a peaceful environment to live.
City: Another city that deserves to be highlighted in the province of Padua. It is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and is known as “The Pearl of Veneto” due to its beauty and historical richness. Cittadella has just over 20 thousand inhabitants.
Abano Terme: With around 20 inhabitants, the city is famous for its thermal waters and is a popular destination for tourists looking for relaxation.
Piove di Sacco: It is a city with an estimated population of approximately 18.800 inhabitants. This picturesque town offers a welcoming atmosphere and rich history.
Monselice: It is another charming city in the province of Padua, known for its stunning landscapes and fascinating history. The city is famous for its historic buildings and medieval ruins that delight visitors exploring its streets. It has almost 18 thousand inhabitants.
East: A small city of around 16 residents known for its serene and tranquil environment, providing residents with a peaceful retreat in the region.
Rubano: With around 16 thousand inhabitants, the city is part of the Padua metropolitan area and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
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