One of the hearts of Padua is the twin centers -- Piazza della Frutta and Piazza delle Erbe. Dividing these two areas is the Palazzo della Ragione.
This Palazzo was the medieval town hall and was used for meetings and court proceedings for centuries. Construction began in 1172 and finished in 1219. It is an upper-level, great hall reputed to have the largest roof unsupported by columns in Europe. It is a large and imposing space. The walls are covered with fantastic frescoes -- some biblical, some astrological--all are wonderful! Keep an eye out for the face of the sun!
At the one end of the great hall stands a large, ancient wooden horse. At the other end (near the entrance) is the Pendulum of Foucault, created by the Department of Physics of the University of Padua.
Given the Palazzos proximity to the best markets in Padua, a visit to this fantastic site is easy.
Read more about the Palazzo della Ragione here.
