Prato della Valle - Padua

If sightseeing in Padua has worn you out, take the time to relax at the Prato delle Valle. The Italian word ”prato” means "meadow", and the Prato dells Valle in Padua is a beautiful green space surrounded by a pleasing canal.

Walk around this oval garden along the path of either side of the canal, and enjoy the statues of those who have contributed to Padua’s history. A total of 78 individuals are recognized there. The green space in the middle of the oval provides ample space and opportunity to relax, reflect, people watch, or plan your next trek across the city!

This open area compares in size to Cascades Park in Tallahassee and a walk down the center is slightly less than a walk down the main street of downtown Woodstock, GA.

The current form and function dates to 1775, when Andrea Memmo envisioned draining the swampy area and creating this wonderful civic space.

NOTE: If you are interested in the history of the Prato delle Valle from Roman times, there is a very readable and approachable article on the ItalIan Notes website: https://italiannotes.com/prato-della-valle-in-padua/