Prato della Valle in Padua - the big square with statues

Not only is Prato della Valle in Padua the largest square in all of Italy, it’s also a popular place to chill and hang out, as well as so much more. 6 days a week there is a big market on parts of Prato della Valle, with a typical Italian market on saturdays with everything from clothes to food to flowers to purchase. Another nice attraction is the centre of the Prato, the square, the Memmia Island, which is surrounded by a small canal which itself is bordered by statues. In total there are 78 statues, 40 ones in the outer bigger ring and 38 ones in the inner ring. The statues were once made between 1775 and 1883 from Vicenza stone by various artists. The statues are of famous people, such as Galileo Galilei who spent time in Padua (located in the outer ring), or former popes. As a visitor to Padua, you can do it as the locals which call it Il Prato, and enjoy your day on the green island in the middle of the square. Relax, chat and have a (cold) drink.