Vicenza – Basilica Palladiana at Piazza dei Signori, Italy by Wanblee

The area where Vicenza sits today was first settled back in the 3rd century B.C. by the Italic Euganei tribes. A century later, the area would also become home to the Paleo-Veneti tribes. As the Celtics made their way into Italy during the 2nd century B.C., the tribes of Vicenza would seek the help of the Romans and by 157 B.C., the city would become part of the Roman Empire.

Vicenza was first designated as a UNESCO heritage site. Two years later, the surrounding lands which are home to many Palladian Villas would be included as part of the UNESCO designation. One of the more popular villas near Vicenza is that of Veneto which is home to the ancient Teatro Olimpico which has attracted millions of visitors since its construction back in 1580.

In and around the city of Vicenza you will also find a number if buildings that have also become quite famous over the years. Near the town center you will find the Villa Almerico Capra which is known locally as the La Rotonda.

There are many plazas in Vicenza as well. The Museo Palladio can be found in the Palazzo Barbaran da Porto. The Palazzo del Capitaniato is the current home to the Town council of Vicenza. The unfinished Palazzo Porto in Piazza Castello is also a very popular destination for those who visit the city. In all, there are a total of 23 sites in Vicenza that were built by Palladio.

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The once walled city of Padova was surrounded by the many branches of the Bacchiglione River. With canals throughout the city, there are many old bridges scattered around the now bustling metropolitan region. Today there are more than 1.6 million people living in the Padova metropolitan area.

Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, Italy by Schnu99i

Many people who have studied English literature have read The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare. The city of Padova was the setting of this very famous play.

It is said that Padova is one of the oldest cities in northernmost part of Italy. According to historical records and artifacts uncovered in the area, it has been determined that the city of Padova was founded by Prince Anteno of the Trojans back in 1183 B.C. A sarcophagus which was uncovered back in 1274 belonged to the prince.

By 45 B.C., the city of Padova became part of the Roman Empire and was well-known throughout the empire for their horse breeding. In front of the Basilica di Sant’Antonio da Padova you will even find the famous Donatello statue of Erasmo da Narni which features a General astride a magnificent steed.

Prato della Valle, Padova, Italy by Fabio Macòr

The city is also home to the University of Padua which was founded more than 820 years ago. Galileo Galilee is one of the most famous lecturers to have stood in the halls of the university. There are also a number of other historically important structures and monuments which can be found throughout Padova. The city is even home to the Palazzo della Ragione which is said to have the largest unsupported roof in the whole of Europe.

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