Ancient Glory of a Kingdom’s Capital: A Pavia Audio Walking Tour

Marvel at this imposing brick fortress built in the 1360s by the powerful Visconti family of Milan, featuring massive walls and corner towers. You'll discover how this castle symbolized the end of Pavia's independence and now houses the city's civic museums.

Admire the elegant Renaissance courtyard and façade of one of Europe's oldest universities, founded in 1361. You'll explore the academic institution where Alessandro Volta conducted his groundbreaking experiments on electricity.

Stroll through this historic square named after Leonardo da Vinci, who contributed to Pavia's architectural legacy during the Renaissance. You'll see how the city honors its connection to one of history's greatest minds.

View the remaining medieval towers that once numbered over 100, dominating Pavia's skyline during its powerful era. You'll discover remnants of the city's fortified past when noble families competed to build the tallest structures.

Walk through Pavia's main square surrounded by colourful medieval buildings, arcades, and café terraces. You'll experience the vibrant heart of the city where locals have gathered for commerce and community for centuries.

Marvel at the massive Renaissance cathedral featuring the fourth-largest dome in Italy, a stunning architectural achievement. You'll explore the magnificent interior where even Leonardo da Vinci contributed design ideas to this ambitious project.

Step inside this beautiful Romanesque basilica to admire stunning 1100s frescoes depicting medieval Pavia along the Ticino River. You'll see rare historic views of the city painted by artists who lived during its golden age.

Explore this magnificent Romanesque church where Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa was crowned King of Italy in 1155. You'll walk through the sacred space that witnessed one of medieval Europe's most significant coronation ceremonies.

Cross this picturesque covered bridge spanning the Ticino River, rebuilt in the 1950s to match its medieval predecessor. You'll hear the legendary story of how the Archangel Michael outwitted the devil at this very spot.

Pass the remaining ruins of the original medieval covered bridge destroyed during World War II bombing. You'll see haunting remnants of the historic crossing that connected Pavia's two riverbanks for centuries.

View this medieval city gate that once controlled access to Pavia through its defensive walls. You'll discover how this ancient entrance protected the city during its time as a fortified capital.

Admire this charming sculpture honouring the washerwomen who once worked along the Ticino River's banks. You'll learn about the everyday life and labor that sustained medieval Pavia's bustling riverside economy.