A Masterpiece of Gothic & Renaissance Architecture

One of Pavia's most renowned monuments, Certosa di Pavia is located just 9 km from the city center. Commissioned at the end of the 14th century by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, Duke of Milan, it was completed at the beginning of the 16th century.

Visitors approach the monastery along a tree-lined avenue that evokes the serene spirituality of the complex.

While the facade is crafted from rare multi-colored marble, the rest of the monastery features Lombard brickwork, offering a striking aesthetic contrast between the exterior side walls and the marble front.

Inside, rich artistic decorations await: carved presbyteries, intarsia wooden choir stalls from the late 15th century, the famous 1400 ivory triptych, the small cloister with the refectory, and the grand cloister lined with individual monastic cells.

The Great Cloister & Monastic Cells

One of the most awe-inspiring areas of the monastery complex is the Great Cloister (Chiostro Grande), surrounded by 122 intricate terracotta arches. Lining the cloister perimeter are 24 individual monastic cells, each designed as a private two-story dwelling with an enclosed garden for solitary prayer and contemplation.