Montagnana is one of the smallest cities in the province of Padua but it is a very attractive tourist destination. Once traveling round Veneto region, you should visit it in any case. At the entrance to Montagnana one will easily recognize the massive and well-preserved city walls. The medieval city centre is surrounded by the two kilometers long and up to 17 m high stone wall with a total of 24 towers. The wall is supported by four gates. There is a castle, the centre of former military facility, at the “Porta Padova”, the main gate. In the narrow streets within the city walls visitors will find many old buildings, such as the palaces Pretorio and Lombardesca, Monte Pieta or the “puppet house” that was built in the 18th century. Among the special attractions in Montagnana Villa Pisani and the caslte S.Zeno should be mentioned. Not far from the Porta Padova one can find the great construction dated back to 1560.
The main square in Montagana is the Piazzo Vittorio Emmanuele which is the cathedral, too. The Gothic church of 1503 is the largest of several churches in the city. The Piazza with its arcades and houses with loggias creates a special medieval atmosphere in the city. Several cafes also invite to have a snack there. The Aldo Moro Hotel is located in a quiet street not far from Piazza Vottorio Emmanuele. In its restaurant one can taste such local dishes as “DOP Proscuitto” – an excellent ham. It is also highly recommended to visit the traditional Osteria San Benedetta.
Ham Festival in May, famous Palio in September and an equestrian competition that is held since the 14th century belong to the most important festivals in Montagnana. Apartments in Montagnana are limited to a few hotels but in the immediate surrounding area holiday-makers will find a lot of beautiful holiday cottages and apartments to rent.
