Certosa di Padula
Certosa di Padula Travel Guide and itinerary tour
Certosa di Padula: Things to do.
Here are some of his reviews of the best attractions that you can book:
Visiting Certosa di Padula
Review by Copywriter Travel Blogger Giuseppe Baldassarri.
Here are some suggestions for things to do in Certosa di Padula:
That sounds like a wonderful plan! The Certosa di Padula, also known as the Certosa di San Lorenzo, is a magnificent Carthusian monastery located in the town of Padula in southern Italy. It's one of the largest charterhouses in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Here are a few things you might find interesting to know before your visit:
1. History: The Certosa di Padula was founded in 1306 by Tommaso II Sanseverino, the Count of Marsico. Over the centuries, it underwent several expansions and renovations, resulting in the grand complex you see today.
2. Architecture and Design: The monastery is a fantastic example of Baroque architecture. It covers an area of around 51,500 square meters and features a beautiful courtyard, a large church, numerous chapels, and a vast library. The highlight of the complex is the grand staircase, which is adorned with intricate decorations.
3. The Cloister and Gardens: The Certosa di Padula boasts a stunning cloister, known as the Chiostro Grande. It's surrounded by a series of arches and features a central garden with well-manicured lawns, flowers, and fountains. It's a peaceful and picturesque spot to explore.
4. The Church: The monastery's church, known as the Basilica di San Lorenzo, is a remarkable sight. Its interior is lavishly decorated with frescoes, marble works, and sculptures. Don't miss the main altar, which is adorned with beautiful artwork.
5. The Library: The Certosa di Padula houses an impressive library with more than 2,000 manuscripts and 5,000 printed books. Unfortunately, access to the library might be restricted to the public, but you can still catch a glimpse of its beauty from the entrance.
6. Visitor Experience: When you visit, you'll have the opportunity to explore the various areas of the monastery, including the church, cloister, and some of the cells. There are guided tours available, providing you with insights into the history, architecture, and daily life of the Carthusian monks.
Remember to check the visiting hours and any specific guidelines or restrictions before your trip, as they might change from time to time. Enjoy your visit to the Certosa di Padula!
Here are some of his reviews of the best attractions that you can book:
Tour of Certosa di Padula itinerary to discover local food and wine specialties to taste.
Exploring local food and wine specialties is a fantastic way to enhance your visit to Certosa di Padula. Here's a suggested itinerary to help you discover the culinary delights of the region:
1. Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Certosa di Padula. Explore the monastery, its beautiful architecture, and the stunning gardens. Take your time to appreciate the history and artistry of the place.
2. Lunch: After your visit, head to a nearby local trattoria or restaurant to indulge in the traditional flavors of the region. Here are some dishes to look out for:
- Pasta alla Lucana: Try a plate of this delicious pasta dish, typically made with homemade pasta, tomato sauce, pork, and pecorino cheese. It's a specialty of the Basilicata region, where Certosa di Padula is located.
- Caciocavallo Podolico: This is a local cheese made from the milk of Podolica cows. It has a rich, nutty flavor and pairs well with cured meats and crusty bread.
- Aglianico del Vulture: Basilicata is known for its excellent wines, and Aglianico del Vulture is one of the standout varieties. This red wine has a robust character with notes of dark fruit and earthiness.
3. Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Padula. Explore the local shops and markets to discover regional products and delicacies. Look out for:
- Taralli: These small, crunchy bread rings are a popular snack in the region. They come in various flavors, such as fennel, black pepper, or olive oil.
- Olive Oil: Basilicata is known for its high-quality olive oil. Visit a local olive oil producer or shop to taste different varieties and learn about the production process.
- Pastries: Treat yourself to some traditional pastries like sfogliatelle (flaky pastries filled with sweet ricotta) or cannoli (fried pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta).
4. Wine Tasting: To further explore the local wines, consider visiting a nearby winery or enoteca (wine bar). You can sample different wines from the Basilicata region, including Aglianico del Vulture and other indigenous grape varieties. Learn about the winemaking techniques and appreciate the unique flavors and aromas.
5. Dinner: End your day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Look for dishes like:
- Pignata: A slow-cooked meat stew prepared in a traditional earthenware pot. It typically includes various cuts of meat, vegetables, and herbs.
- Lucanica Sausage: These flavorful sausages are made from pork and seasoned with local herbs and spices. They are often grilled or cooked in a rich tomato sauce.
- Sweets: Conclude your meal with a traditional dessert like Pasticciotto (a pastry filled with cream or jam) or Torta Caprese (a rich chocolate and almond cake).
Remember to pair your meals with the local wines you discovered earlier in the day. The combination of delicious food, regional specialties, and fine wines will create a memorable culinary experience during your visit to Certosa di Padula. Bon appétit!
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