The Basilica of
Saint Anthony
in Padua
“Sii benedetto per ogni passo, per ogni dubbio e ogni scoperta.
Ora sei giunto alla casa del Santo: entra con cuore aperto.”
A spiritual destination and the heart of the Way
The Basilica of Saint Anthony is more than just a church: it is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Christian world and the spiritual heart of the city of Padua. Located in the city center, this majestic Basilica welcomes millions of faithful and travelers every year, who come from all over the world to pay homage to Saint Anthony, one of the most beloved and venerated saints in history.
A place of arrival,
a place of rebirth
To complete the Way of Saint Anthony in Padua, after crossing natural landscapes, villages, and cities rich in history, means reaching not only a geographic destination, but also an inner one.
The embrace of the Basilica, with its majestic architecture and silence full of prayer, welcomes the weary yet enriched pilgrim, ready to receive or renew a deep blessing.
History and architecture
Construction of the Basilica began in 1232, just one year after the death of the Saint. The church is an architectural masterpiece that blends Romanesque, Gothic, Byzantine, and Renaissance styles. Inside, you’ll find the Tomb of Saint Anthony, visited in silence by thousands of faithful every day.
His relics are kept in the Chapel of the Treasury, and the presbytery and main altar are adorned with frescoes by Altichiero da Zevio and extraordinary sculptures by Donatello.
For the pilgrim
Upon arrival at the Basilica, pilgrims may receive a personalized blessing and collect the Testimonium of the Way, a symbol of the spiritual journey they have completed.
This can be collected at the Basilica’s information office, located in the Cloister of the Magnolia, which is open at the following times: Mon – Sun: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM; 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Here, it is also possible to request the stamp for the Pilgrim Credential.
Those who wish may pause in silent prayer at the Tomb or place a hand on the green stone, as a simple yet powerful gesture of devotion.
Opening hours and information
The Basilica is located at Piazza del Santo, 11, in the heart of Padua. It is open every day from 6:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. Confessions are available daily in multiple languages.
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