Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua

The Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua (Basilica di Sant’Antonio) is a major 13th-century Roman Catholic basilica in Padua that houses the tomb of Saint Anthony, who died in 1231. It is an important pilgrimage destination in northern Italy.

The complex includes a large church building with multiple chapels and cloisters that contain significant works of art and devotional altars. The interior and exterior show a mixture of Romanesque and Gothic influences, and the basilica attracts large numbers of visitors and pilgrims throughout the year.

Construction began soon after Saint Anthony’s death in the early 13th century and the basilica developed over subsequent decades under the Franciscan order. Over time it has been embellished with chapels, sculptural work and paintings by prominent local artists.

The basilica stands in Padua’s historic centre, within easy walking distance of Prato della Valle and other central landmarks, and is a regular stop for visitors to the city.

• Pilgrimage site: The basilica is one of Italy's major pilgrimage churches and contains the tomb and relics of Saint Anthony of Padua, who died in 1231.
• Location: It is located close to Padua's main urban spaces, making it easy to visit on foot from the city centre and from the nearby Prato della Valle square.

What to See #

• Tomb of St. Anthony: A 13th-century sarcophagus and shrine housing the remains and relics of the saint, visited by pilgrims and incorporated into the basilica's interior programme.
• Chapels and cloisters: The basilica complex contains multiple chapels and cloisters that hold altars, painted and sculpted works from the medieval and Renaissance periods.