WHAT YOU CAN SEE IN PAVIA
San Michele Maggiore Basilica
The Basilica of San Michele Maggiore is one of the most important examples of Lombard Romanesque architecture. Originally built during the Lombard kingdom period, it was the coronation church for kings of Italy.
Pavia Cathedral (Duomo)
Founded in 1488, the Cathedral of Pavia features one of the largest octagonal domes in Italy (92 meters high), designed with contributions from Donato Bramante and Leonardo da Vinci.
San Pietro in Ciel d'Oro
Famous church holding the marble tomb of St. Augustine, carved in Carrara marble, as well as the remains of philosopher Boethius and Lombard King Liutprand. Mentioned by Dante in the Divine Comedy.
Covered Bridge (Ponte Coperto)
Iconic symbol of Pavia spanning the Ticino River, connecting the historical center to the Borgo Ticino district.
Visconti Castle
Built in 1360 by Galeazzo II Visconti as a grand courtly residence. Today it houses the Civic Museums of Pavia (Musei Civici) with rich archaeological, Roman, Lombard, and fine art collections.
University of Pavia
Founded in 1361, it is one of Europe's oldest universities. Former illustrious professors include Alessandro Volta, Ugo Foscolo, and Nobel laureate Camillo Golgi.
Santa Maria di Canepanova Sanctuary
A Renaissance architectural masterpiece attributed to the circle of Donato Bramante and Giovanni Antonio Amadeo. Featuring an octagonal central plan crowned by a dome, it houses one of Lombardy's most spectacular Baroque fresco cycles painted by Guglielmo Caccia, Camillo Procaccini, and Simone Peterzano.
