Piazza delle Erbe is a jewel in the heart of Padua, one of the most fascinating and history-rich squares in Italy which certainly deserves an in-depth visit. Also known once as Piazza delle Biade, Piazza del Vino and Piazza della Giustizia, this trapezoidal and irregular square was the commercial center of the city for centuries.
Today, Piazza delle Erbe is a lively and cosmopolitan meeting place. In the morning, it hosts the fruit and vegetable market, with stalls offering a wide variety of fresh produce. In the afternoon, the bars take over, taking over the space with chairs and tables, creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. The square is surrounded by historic buildings that tell of centuries of history, including the Palazzo delle Debite to the west, the Moschini wing to the east, and the majestic Palazzo della Ragione with its numerous loggias.
Piazza delle Erbe: a historical panorama
The origins of Piazza delle Erbe date back to the pre-Roman age, as evidenced by the archaeological finds that highlight its liveliness. However, the current shape of the square is the result of the 10th and 11th centuries. It was with the construction of the Palazzo della Ragione in the early thirteenth century that attempts were made to organize the various points of sale: fabrics and furs under the hall, wrought iron and wine at the foot of the palace stairs, and grains and leather in the central space. The workshops of the oresi (goldsmiths) were located under the Palazzo del Podestà.
In the eighteenth century, the medieval houses to the south were renovated and the square was paved several times. In 1867, it underwent a radical paving intervention. In 1874, the Palazzo delle Debite was built on the prisons to the west, and in the twentieth century, the Moschini wing was erected on the site of the fourteenth-century Fondaco delle Biade.
Traditions and celebrations in Piazza delle Erbe
Piazza delle Erbe was the stage for numerous traditions and celebrations of the city of Padua , in the Middle Ages, it was the place of capital executions, which is why it was also called Piazza della Giustizia . The statue of Justice, with sword and scales, watched over the place where the stage for the executions was set up, under the windows of the Palazzo del Podestà.
Among the most significant celebrations, the " Ludi Carraresi " stand out, established in 1382 to commemorate the Carrara lordship and celebrate the rise to power of James I of Carrara. Every year, on the day of San Giacomo, the square hosted sumptuous celebrations with the Palio race, where knights competed to win precious prizes.
The monuments of Piazza delle Erbe
A fascinating detail is the presence of a map representing the Italian colonial empire on the facade of the building at number 52 in Piazza delle Erbe. This map has sparked interest and debate, further highlighting the importance and historical relevance of this square.
Piazza delle Erbe in Padua is surrounded by monuments and historic buildings that tell centuries of history. Here is a list of the main monuments found in this fascinating square:
- Palazzo della Ragione : it is the main building that dominates the square. Built in the thirteenth century, it was the administrative heart of the city for centuries. Inside there is the famous Sala della Ragione, a grandiose frescoed space, known for its large sundial;
- Palazzo del Podestà : is located at the north end of the square. Built in the 16th century, it is characterized by its imposing façade and its loggias;
- Palazzo delle Debite : located on the west side of the square, it was built in 1874 on the site of the medieval prisons. Today it houses administrative offices;
- Colonna del Peronio : it is located in the center of Piazza della Frutta and served as a reference point for arranging the market stalls;
- Monumental Fountain : built in 1930, it occupies the center of the square, adding a touch of charm and color to the environment.
Each monument contains an important piece of Padua's history, helping to make Piazza delle Erbe an extraordinary place, full of charm and historical significance. For those who want to visit it and perhaps enjoy the other thousand activities and historical places to visit in Padua, it may be interesting to book a comfortable and safe stay.
