Combining three different periods – Greek, Roman and Gothic – this church is located in the city center and was built in 1270 on the remains of an early Christian one. As well as its architectural significance, it is also said to be the church in which Boccaccio, a 14th century writer, met Maria d’Aquino, the woman who became his beloved and muse, the Fiammetta (little flame) of his works.
14. Basilica of St Anthony, Padua
Built in the early 14th century to house the remains of St Anthony, this is one of the largest churches in the world, and visited by millions of pilgrims each year. Five different architectural styles are at play here: Romanesque, Gothic, Byzantine, Renaissance and Baroque; from the outside, it is characterized by two bell towers and eight domes.
