Prato della Valle in Padua – the big square with statues
Prato della Valle in Padua: the big square with 78 statues, the Saturday market and tips to enjoy Il Prato like a local. FAQ included.
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.
Pictures of my visit to Il Prato, Prato della Valle in Padua
Prato della Valle in Padua PadovaLoggia Amulea, as seen from Prato della VallePrato della Valle with Basilica of Santa Giustina in the background
Prato della Valle is the largest square in Padua and, as I describe it, in all of Italy. Locals call it Il Prato, and it is a popular place to relax and hang out.
How many statues are there at Prato della Valle?
There are 78 statues around the central Memmia Island, 40 in the larger outer ring and 38 in the inner ring. They were made between 1775 and 1883 from Vicenza stone and show famous people such as Galileo Galilei and former popes.
Is there a market at Prato della Valle?
Yes, there is a big market on parts of the square 6 days a week, and a typical Italian market on Saturdays with everything from clothes to food to flowers.
What can you do at Prato della Valle?
Do it like the locals: sit in the middle of the square, relax, chat and have a cold drink. You can also see Loggia Amulea and the Basilica of Santa Giustina in the background.
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