Prato della Valle

Prato della Valle is Padua’s vast elliptical square, with a green central island, Isola Memmia, encircled by a canal and two rows of statues. The 78 figures represent people connected to the city, including scholars, artists and doctors. Cross one of the four bridges to stroll on the island, or follow the paths beside the water and take in views of the surrounding buildings, including the Basilica of Santa Giustina. The square is a gathering place for markets and events, and a Saturday visit brings open-air stalls.

The island, canal and statues

Prato della Valle covers about 88,620 square metres, making it one of Europe’s largest squares. Its distinctive layout dates to the late 18th century, when Venetian administrator Andrea Memmo set out to transform the area into a public space.

At the centre is Isola Memmia, a green island surrounded by the Alicorno canal. Four bridges cross the water to the island. Two rows of statues line the canal banks; the 78 figures represent notable people connected with Padua, including scholars, artists and doctors. Galileo Galilei and Andrea Palladio are among them.

Markets and everyday life

The square is used for markets, festivals and other public events, as well as for walks and time outdoors. On Saturdays, stalls fill the square. The monthly antiques market takes place on the third Sunday of the month.

For a more leisurely visit, walk the paths beside the water, cross one of the bridges and pause on the central island. The surrounding views include the Basilica of Santa Giustina and the Loggia Amulea. Prato della Valle also makes a natural endpoint for a walk along Via Roma, Padua’s main shopping street.