Take a guided tour of Palazzo del Bò and learn about some of the University of Padua’s achievements during the 16th century. The palazzo contains a collection of lecture halls where some of the city’s greatest minds addressed students over four centuries ago. See the city’s anatomical theater and learn about the groundbreaking research of Galileo Galilei.
Architect Andrea Moroni designed the immense complex which we see today in 1550, with the addition of a permanent anatomical theater. Believed to be one of the first of its kind, the anatomical theater was used for research and education by the medical academics of the time.
Make your way into the palace’s Aula Magna, or Great Hall. This expansive hall was used as the university’s grand lecture theater. It was in this room that Galileo Galilei presented the university’s scholars with his findings. During Galileo’s 18 years in Padova, the scientist discovered the moons of Jupiter, saw Saturn’s rings and worked on the theory of a solar system revolving around the sun. According to the university’s tradition, the podium and chair used by Galileo can still be seen.
Continue your exploration of the Palazzo del Bò to find the Sala dei Quaranta (the Hall of the Forty), as well as the Aula di Medicina (Medicine Hall), which was used as a lecture theater for students.
Explore the palace’s courtyard it gives an overview of the monumental size of the complex. Look up at the vertically arranged arcades to see the doors to different classrooms. The palace’s gallery features a collection of almost 3,000 coats of arms. Teachers and students contributed to the collection over the centuries as a mark of commitment to the university.
The Palazzo del Bò is located in Padova’s historic center. Access to the site is possible only with a guided tour, which are available in Italian and English and depart daily from the University of Padova. Tours run for 45 minutes and do not require prior booking. The Palazzo del Bò is closed on Sundays, public holidays and during semester break for a week in August.
