Este: let's find out what to see and do in this Venetian town

Those who visit the Veneto and want to spend time away from the most popular destinations, full of chaos and crowds, can opt for Este , a quiet town immersed in the greenery of the Euganean Hills , this location offers visitors a rich historical and cultural heritage. The city, in fact, has a complex and fascinating history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Between the 11th and 13th centuries, the city was the scene of fights between noble families, including the Ezzelini and the Este family. The medieval castle of Este, initially fortified by the Ezzelini family, then came under the control of the Este family. In the 14th century, the powerful Cangrande della Scala destroyed the castle, which was later rebuilt in the 15th century by the lords of Padua , becoming known as Castello Carrarese.

Under the rule of the Serenissima Republic of Venice in the fifteenth century, Este experienced a period of great prosperity, transforming itself into one of the most flourishing cultural centers of Renaissance Italy. However, the seventeenth century brought difficulties, including a plague epidemic that decimated the population and seriously damaged the local economy.

Cultural places to discover in Este

The Abbey Cathedral of Santa Tecla is one of the main places of worship in Este and a notable example of Baroque architecture. Built between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries by Antonio Gaspari, it stands on the remains of an early Christian church destroyed by the earthquake of 1688. The bell tower, built in the mid-eighteenth century on an early medieval base, is particularly fascinating. Inside, Giambattista Tiepolo's altarpiece depicts Saint Thecla interceding with God for the liberation of the city from the plague. The Cathedral organ, created by the Ruffatti Brothers, is one of the most important in the Veneto and contributes to creating an atmosphere of grandeur.

After seeing this unique place it is possible to visit another dedicated to worship, the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie ; inside, you can admire the works of Antonio Zanchi and Bernardo Falconi. The Basilica was elevated to a Minor Basilica by Pope Pius IX in the twentieth century. The sanctuary also houses a Byzantine icon considered miraculous by many faithful, adding a touch of sacredness to its already rich historical heritage.

Carrarese Castle of Este

The Carrarese Castle is undoubtedly the best-known monument in Este. Situated on a hill, the castle boasts a mighty city wall and crenellated towers which give the complex an imposing appearance. Built by the Carraresi in the 15th century after the destruction of the previous castle by Cangrande della Scala, it is now home to public gardens known as the Giardini di Este . These gardens, accessible for free, offer play areas, paths and spaces for relaxation. The castle also houses the Atestino Archaeological Museum , located inside the Mocenigo Palace , where it is possible to explore finds that tell the story of Este from the Paleo-Venetian civilizations to the modern age.

Civic Tower of the Porta Vecchia and Falconetto Arch

The Civic Tower of the Porta Vecchia, dating back to the seventeenth century, is a monument that recalls the ancient entrance gate to the city. Equipped with a working clock and a seventeenth-century bell, the tower represents an example of city architecture that has spanned the centuries. Located in Piazza del Municipio, it is a significant point of reference for those visiting Este.

Instead, the Arco del Falconetto , located in via Cappuccini, is a Renaissance arch built in the sixteenth century at the behest of the Venetian patron Alvise Cornaro. This elegant monument marks the entrance to Villa Benvenuti , once the center of a lively court of intellectuals and artists.

Venetian villas near Este

Villa Contarini degli Scrigni , located near Este, is a magnificent example of a Venetian villa. Built in the seventeenth century by Giorgio Contarini, senator of the Republic of Venice, the villa is known for its noble floor and its lush gardens. Although access to the interior is only possible by reservation, the villa represents an unmissable visit for those wishing to explore the architecture and history of the region.

Finally, Villa Mocenigo , located near the castle walls, is an example of a Renaissance villa. After a fire in the eighteenth century and a subsequent reconstruction, the villa now houses the Atestino National Museum. This museum offers a complete overview of the history of Este, from its paleo-Venetian origins to the modern era, and is a fundamental stop for those who want to deepen their knowledge of the region.

Visit Este and Veneto

To discover Este and the Veneto, just one day is not enough, the Euganean Hills, Padua and many other destinations are waiting to be discovered in the surrounding area and it is impossible to do it in such a short time... so how can we do it? The solution exists: short-term rent .

By booking an apartment for rent online you can save time, money and effort while gaining the advantage of being able to dedicate yourself to discovering such a unique Italian region.