Padua is a city that captivates all its visitors with its elegance and the history that exudes from every corner. Located in the heart of the Veneto region, it boasts beautiful monuments, ancient architectural treasures, and one of Europe's oldest universities. But why is Padua nicknamed " the city of the three withouts "? A name waiting to be discovered, encompassing historical curiosities and legends. This saying, while playful, allows us to reflect on three iconic places in the city.
The origin of the three without
Padua is known as the city of “a saint without a name, a meadow without grass and a café without doors ”. This ancient phrase is linked to three places in the city that are absolutely worth visiting because each tells a part of Padua’s history.
The first " without " refers to Saint Anthony , the city's saint; although his full name is Saint Anthony of Padua, the locals simply call him "The Saint," so well-known and venerated that he needs no further clarification. His majestic Basilica, which stands as one of the principal places of worship in the Catholic world, is visited every year by millions of pilgrims, and his presence in the city's historical and spiritual fabric was so strong that even mentioning his name was superfluous.
The second " without " concerns Prato della Valle , one of the largest squares in Europe. Today it is a wonderful green space adorned with a large central island surrounded by statues, but the saying "grassless meadow" comes from even more ancient times, when the area was marshy and devoid of greenery, used for markets and other commercial activities. Only the intervention of mayor Andrea Memmo at the end of the 18th century transformed this space into the unique and spectacular place we know today.
The third and final " without " refers to Caffè Pedrocchi , known as " the café without doors ," a place renowned as a symbol of the city's intellectual and cultural life, open 24 hours a day in times past, a detail that earned it the nickname. Built in the 19th century, the Pedrocchi was an important meeting place for intellectuals, artists, and politicians.
Some places of interest to visit in Padua
After discovering the places that transform Padua into the city of the three without, let's see some other noteworthy monuments, definitely worth visiting in the city, such as the Scrovegni Chapel which became famous for:
- Giotto's frescoes;
- To be like one of the great masterpieces of Western art.
Alternatively, for nature lovers, the Botanical Garden of Padua is a must-see. Founded in 1545, it holds several records, including:
- Be part of the UNESCO heritage;
- Being the oldest university botanical garden still in use.
The city, of course, still has much to offer such as its street art , the Palazzo di Bo and its university.
Padua: how to see everything
For those visiting Padua, whether for business or pleasure, the city offers a wealth of cultural offerings and recreational events to enjoy. If you're looking for a relaxed, unhurried experience, short-term rentals are a unique solution for staying in Padua with maximum comfort. Thanks to its strategic location in the heart of the Veneto region, Padua is perfect for both tourists wishing to explore its beauty and workers needing to stay in a city rich in history and culture.
Whether you want to enjoy the city's historical wonders or simply stroll through its charming porticoes, Padua is a destination that offers much more than you might imagine. Booking an apartment online allows you to fully immerse yourself in Paduan life, leisurely exploring its secrets and savoring its unique atmosphere.
