Prato della Valle Square
Via Michele Sanmicheli, 49 35123 Padova, Italy
Description:
Prato della Valle is an Italian square, which is considered the largest square in Italy and one of the largest squares in Europe. It covers an area of 88,620 square meters.
This square stands out for its original layout with an ellipse-shaped canal, as well as bridges laid across the canal. On the square are the basilicas of Santa Justina and St. Anthony. In the center is a fountain with 78 statues of famous personalities of Padua.
In the Roman era, the imperial theater was located here, and in the Middle Ages horse racing, fairs, exhibitions and other holidays were arranged on the square. Later the square swamped and fell into decline. In 1775, the square was completely rebuilt under the direction of architect Domenico Cerato.