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Offered languages
- German
- English
Step into the 16th century, a time when the University of Padua ignited a scientific revolution that forever changed how we understand the human body and the natural world. Join Max, a historian of science, and Claudia, a curious Paduan local, as they trace the dramatic shift from ancient superstitions to empirical science. From the world's oldest surviving anatomical theatre to the very first academic botanical garden, you will uncover tales of grave-robbing, pharmaceutical fraud, and the birth of modern medicine. This is a cerebral, immersive journey through the cobblestone streets where Galileo taught and Vesalius dissected.
- A 3.4 km self-guided tour with 6 stops over 105 min
- Ideal for travelers interested in History & Memory and Urbanism, Infrastructure & Innovation
- Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals
- Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
From Padua's main station, take local public transport toward Palazzo del Bo. Get off at the nearest stop and walk the final few minutes to Palazzo del Bo. Check the current local connection on the day of travel.
From Orto Botanico, walk to the nearest public transport stop and travel back to Padua's main station. The departure point is Orto Botanico in Via Orto Botanico. Check the current local connection on the day of travel.
Itinerary
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1Palazzo Bo
The historical seat of the University of Padua and home to the world's oldest surviving permanent anatomical theatre.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Piazza delle Erbe
A historic market square that highlights the chaotic, unregulated trade of medicinal plants before academic botany.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Housed in a 15th-century hospital, this site bridges the gap between theoretical university learning and practical patient care.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Prato Della Valle
A massive, monumental square featuring statues of illustrious figures, serving as a spatial representation of institutional memory.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Basilica di Santa Giustina
A monumental Benedictine abbey representing the monastic tradition of herb gardens that predated academic botany.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Orto Botanico 1545
Founded in 1545, this is the world's oldest surviving academic botanical garden, representing the birth of modern botanical science.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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