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Home , Abano Terme, Battaglia Terme, Cittadella, Euganean Hills, Galzignano Terme, Giuseppe Jappelli

hermae. The Euganean Spas T A place of culture and well-being.

www..to The Euganean Spas. The largest spa centre in .

“All the happiness of the Venetian character 3000 m. In the subsoil, the water runs for approximately 80 lies in its waters” km at high temperatures and under great pressure for Stendhal, 1817 an average of 25/30 years, becoming richer and richer in mineral salts. Reaching the Euganean spa basin, it returns to the surface at a temperature of 87°C, rich in Welcome to the Euganean spas, where the healthy, beneficial geothermal energy and dissolved substances that make waters have been flowing for more than three thousand years, bringing life to the largest spa centre in Europe. The Euganean spa waters belong to the category of deep underground waters, and their precious uniqueness is assured during its long journey upwards before reaching the Euganean lands. Renowned and appreciated since protohistoric times, today they are still a source of health and well-being. The meteoric water comes from the Lower and from the Lessini mountains in the pre-Alps, flowing into the subsoil through the limestone to reach a depth of more than

Abano Terme, monumental entrance to the Montirone.

2 , Cathedral.

it a unique thermal resource, the only one of its kind in are followed with the utmost attention and professionalism, the world. The beneficial strength of the water, which today in a comfortable, pleasant atmosphere. All the resorts have is scientifically classified as hyperthermal bromo-iodine-salt been classified with the “I Super” qualification issued by the water, has been used by man for centuries for therapeutic Italian Ministry of Health, which demonstrates the respect purposes, and lies at the root of all the most modern of the natural resources in the basin and the strict discipline therapies and aesthetic treatments carried out in the many in the use of the water in order to assure the conservation specialised spa hotels in the Euganean spa area: from of this incomparable natural resource. And on top of this, the balneotherapy to mud therapy, from hydrokinesitherapy constant commitment of the “Pietro d’Abano” Spa Study Centre, to inhalation treatments, and the widest range of beauty which carefully studies the main components of the spa waters and relaxation treatments. Each spa hotel offers indoor and carries out systematic research into spa medicine and and outdoor spa pools and a whole department dedicated the effects of mud therapy, to guarantee total quality in the to well-being and therapies, to ensure that all guests therapies carried out and their scientific and therapeutic values. The Euganean Spas in ancient times.

“…The soft soil sighs, and closed beneath the boiling pumice the wave digs flaky roads. […] In its midst, like a widespread boiling sea, a lake extends, spinning greatly, covering an enormous area …” Claudian, Aponus, IV century AD

With this troubling, supernatural vision, the poet Claudius Claudian describes the sacred lake that covered the area where the Euganean Spas now lie. In this territory, which at the time was mainly marshland and forest, boiling sulfureous spa waters sprang spontaneous in bubbling springs. An extraordinary phenomenon, considered divine in origin by the ancient Venetian people, so much so that as early as the VIII century BC religious ceremonies were held in the sacred lake, with sacrifices to the and baths offering benefits and good health.

Above, , The building housing the “Therapy, holiday and tourism board”, decorative bas-reliefs (detail).

Archaeological dig carried out at the turn of the 20th century that led to the discovery of thousands of ex voto, including chalices, cups, vases and bronze objects, all from the Paleovenetian era. Today most of these are displayed in the beautiful rooms of the National Atestino Museum in Este the Eremitani Civic Museum in and the International Artistic Glass and Spa Museum in Montegrotto Terme.

threw in golden dice to find out whether his destiny would be favourable in the battle with the Pannonians, an obligatory step to his accession to the Emperor’s throne. The dice were thrown, and both landed with the highest score upwards. Tiberius conquered the Pannonians and became Emperor The first water-divining activities became the cult of Aponus, (1st century AD). guardian of springs, and added to this was the oracle of Gerion, who was consulted in order to know the future. From 49 BC, when Patavium and the neighbouring lands, According to the legend, when passing through Aponus’ including the Euganean Spas, became municipium, an upper land, Hercules founded the cult of Gerion, a mysterious god class of Romanised “Patavini” was formed, and wishing imprisoned in the bowels of the earth who prophesised the to emulate the upper classes of they paid great future through a priest or priestess, guardians of the temple, importance to the spa waters, creating public baths and spa who were able to interpret the prophesies of the god through stations. The ancient lakeside sanctuary became a rich, the spa waters. Svetonius recounts that also young Tiberius multipurpose spa location, visited to revive both body invoked the sacred spa spring and, at the request of the oracle, and spirit. Around the spa baths, wide avenues, gardens,

4 fountains, libraries, conference and exhibition rooms, theatres and beautiful patrician villas were built, all well documented in archaeological findings. Many ancient literary sources also confirm the fame of the ‘fons Aponi’ during imperial times: the most important known to date is the poem “Aponus”, composed by the Alexandrian poet Claudius Claudian, following his visit to the area between 396 and 399 AD. Following the fall of the , also Theodoric, king of the Ostrogoths, was to enjoy the spa, as witnessed in his famous letter, in which he proclaims Abano as the “ornament of my realm, famous throughout the world”. 1

2

But at the end of the VI century, the Longobard hordes of 1 Montegrotto Terme, columns from Roman period in the gardens king Agilulfo stormed the town, sowing destruction and of the Hotel Terme Neroniane. ruin, and so the Euganean spas fell into oblivion for many 2 Montegrotto Terme, Hotel Terme Neroniane, hydropinic fountain centuries. Many archaeological testimonials remain of the decorated with ancient artefacts discovered during the digs prior to the construction of the spa hall. opulence of the ancient Roman spa, including the large 3 Montegrotto Terme, Hotel Terme Neroniane, archaeological area at Montegrotto Terme, the many detail of archaeological digs. findings on show at the Atestino National Museum at Este, the Eremitani Civic Museum in Padua and many ancient literary sources. 3 Well-being therapy.

The extraordinary therapeutic properties of the spa waters are applied to a wide range of restorative and well-being treatments and programmes.

Balneotherapy: involves the immersion of the body in a single tub filled with hot, ozone-enriched spa water. It facilitates the activities of the joints, makes movements smoother, relaxes the muscles, reduces pain. The intense vasodilating action stimulates the blood. Indicated above all for painful conditions and muscular atrophy, post-traumatic rehabilitation following traumas, fractures and surgery, chronic inflammation and skin conditions.

Hydrokinesitherapy: uses the physical and chemical properties of the water in an ideal treatment for muscle deficit, to regain physical strength following surgery, and for those suffering from arthrosis. In addition to being natural and effective, it is also a fun, relaxing therapy that is done in the pool. Mud therapy: spa mud is a clever combination of a solid component (clay), a liquid one (bromo-iodine salt water) and a biological one (micro organisms and biomaterials). The mature mud lies at the basis of mud therapy, which has four steps: application, spa water bath, sweat reaction and tonifying massage. It is an incomparable natural treatment that helps those suffering from osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

Inhalation therapy: nebulized spa water helps all kinds of upper and lower respiratory conditions, and is effective in the prevention and curing of chronic illnesses.

“Remise en forme” and beauty treatments: each resort is able to offer targeted remise en forme and beauty treatments. Expert and qualified staff will help you to recover lost energy, beauty and all-round well-being through massage, innovative treatments, a balanced diet and treatments using spa products.

7 Abano Terme.

Today Abano Terme is one of the most famous spa resorts The entrance to the in Europe. Its large scale accommodation capacity, spread old spring, where across many hotels all equipped to offer special spa until the second half treatment services, holds the record of being the largest spa of the 1800s the town in the world. The city centre has a large pedestrian water still flowed precinct, filled with old and modern buildings, large hotels spontaneously at a with well-tended gardens, shops, bars and restaurants, and temperature of 80°C, the historical and monumental sights also include is marked by an early one of the most important testimonials of the Aponus spa, 19th century Montirone Hill. Corinthian colonnade and a mighty Doric column crowned by a Not to be missed. chalice wrapped in the coils of a snake, Montirone Hill: this small hill, once rich in naturally flowing designed by Giuseppe spa springs, was particularly dear to the ancient Patavini, who Jappelli in 1825 for in Roman times surrounded it with villas and spa stations. the visit of Emperor 1 Franz I of . The two buildings either side of the entrance house the civic Montirone Art Gallery, with its collection of 15th - 20th century paintings, drawings and engravings, and the municipal Modern Art Gallery, which hosts temporary exhibitions. Opposite Montirone there is a small oratory designed by Domenico Cerato in 1780, which today is used as an exhibition centre.

1 Abano Terme, Montirone, column erected in honour of Franz I of Austria. 2 View of the spa basin and the . 2 Below, Abano Terme, monumental entrance to the Montirone. 3 Abano Terme, New Town Spa Gardens. 4 Abano Terme, Villa Savioli, “Amleto e Donato Sartori” Mask Museum. 5 Abano Terme, “Amleto e Donato Sartori” International Mask Museum. 6 Abano Terme, Kursaal Gardens, Statue in honour 3 4 of Pietro d’Abano. Chiesa del Sacro Cuore: with its modern architectural design, this is one of the most important churches in the town. Built during the second half of the 1950s to the design of the architect Giulio Brunetta, it houses a beautiful crucifix, by the artist Mario Pinton, a frontal by Carlo Mandelli, and works by Paolo De Poli. Kursaal public gardens: amongst the greenery of the gardens, right in the middle of the pedestrian area, we can find the statue of Pietro D’Abano, one of the most famous sons of Aponus. Another decorative element of this garden is the Harlequin fountain, by Amleto Sartori, artist of international fame, to whom also the Mask Museum, located in Villa Savioli, is dedicated. 5

Pietro d’Abano: born in 1257, Grand Hotel Orologio, one of the emblems of the history Pietro, son of the notary of Abano, this beautiful building was constructed in the Costanzo, spent much time th in Constantinople, and 17 century by the noble family Dondi dall’Orologio, completed his studies and was extended in the 19th century with the addition at the of its neoclassical façade (1825), by , before going on to become the greatest Italian scientist who also restored the large gardens surrounding the hotel. of the 14th century. Opposite the Grand Hotel Orologio is the Hotel He taught medicine, & Victoria, another building of particular historical value. philosophy and astrology at the University of Paris, This was in fact the headquarters of the Italian Supreme and from 1306 at the Command during the First World War (1918), and General University of Padua. Armando Diaz often stayed here in an apartment on the Expert in Greek Byzantine and Arabic arts, he believed first floor. that a good doctor should Viale delle Terme: wide, tree-lined avenue, the real also be a good astrologer dynamic heart of the town, with its shops, hotels, and an expert alchemist. This multi-disciplinarity bars and restaurants. attracted the attention of the Court of the Inquisition, and he was accused of necromancy and heresy, and in 1316 his body was burned at the stake. Pietro believed that human matters were influenced by the stars. His theories inspired the splendid astrological cycle, frescoed in the “Palazzo della Ragione” in Padua. 6 9 This large complex, which blends harmoniously in with the buildings and architecture of the spa town, has been conceived as a single, enormous, continuous lawn, criss-crossed by paved walkways and cycle paths and rich in plants and trees along the main avenue. Buildings line up along its sides, all prestigious residences, shops and offices. “Amleto e Donato Sartori” International Mask Museum: the only one of its kind in the world, housing the prestigious works of Amleto Sartori and his son Donato, internationally renowned artists, creators of masks for the “Commedia dell’Arte” and theatre generally. 1

It includes two sites of great interest: the recent Piazza del Sole e della Pace, also known as Piazza della Meridiana, and the S. Lorenzo Cathedral. The polychrome marble sundial is one of the largest of its kind in Europe (3000 m2) and is certainly unique. Designed by Salvador Condè and with the support of the architect Giulio Genta and 1 Abano Terme, the gnomonist Giovanni Paltrinieri, it was completed in late New Town Spa 1996, and constitutes a work of the highest scientific, Gardens. astronomic and educational value. The S. Lorenzo 2 Abano Terme, Cathedral is the main religious building in the town centre. S. Lorenzo It was founded in the second half of the 10th century, Cathedral. th 3 Abano Terme, but its current condition dates back to the 18 century, View of the and is the work of the architect Domenico Cerato. Inside we pedestrian area. can find 16th century sculptures by Tommaso Allio, the 4 Abano Terme, Flagellation on the upper altar by Bartolomeo Litterini Via Jappelli. (1712) and a Via Crucis 5 Abano Terme, Piazza Repubblica. attributed to Carlo 2 Henrici. The lovely bell tower dates back to 1314, with its base from the 10th century. Parco Urbano Termale: a jewel of modern architecture, designed by one of the most famous architects and architecture historians, Paolo Portoghesi. 3 4 Villas and Parks.

Beautiful noble villas, built mainly between the 16th and 18th centuries, enrich both the town centre and the surrounding green hills. Villa Savioli, built in the 17th century and extended in the following centuries, houses the extraordinary Amleto e Donato Sartori International Mask Museum. Villa Bassi Rathgeb, built in the 16th century and restored in the 1700s, belonged to the noble family Dondi dell’Orologio. Inside the frescoes are by Antonio Buttafuoco. In the 19th century many famous people stayed here, 5 including Eugenio Beauharnais, ’s stepson, 10 Villa Mocenigo Mainardi: this complex, where also resided in 1779, includes a small oratory facing over the road. Other villas of particular architectural interest are: Villa Sette (late 17th century with some early 19th century modifications), Villa Erizzo Zanin (19th century, with large gardens and private oratory), Villa Foscolo (also known as the “ ”), at Feriole, known to have hosted when he was writing “The last letters of Jacopo Ortis” (1796), and finally Villa Selvatico Treves, built in the 16th century but completely renovated in the 19th century in line with 6 the rules of architectural Eclecticism. and Viceroy to the Kingdom of . Since 1979 the villa and annexed gardens have belonged to the Municipality of Abano Terme, and have been transformed into a prestigious centre for cultural and sporting events. Villa Rigoni Savioli (ex Malipiero) is a beautiful Palladian villa built in the 16th century. The façade has four semi-columns surmounted by a triangular tympanum. A staircase decorated with statues leads directly to the first floor. Inside (not open to the public) the lounge is decorated with precious frescoes by GiovanBattista Zelotti, friend and apprentice of . 7 6 Abano Terme, Pedestrian area, “Therapy, Holiday and Tourism Board” building. 7 Abano Terme, loc. Monterosso, Villa Monzino “La Bembiana”. 8 Abano Terme, Piazza del Sole e della Pace. Sotto, Abano Terme, loc. Monterosso, Gardens at Villa Monzino “La Bembiana”.

8 Abano Terme: Monument Statue of Christopher Columbus, by Paolo Boldrin (1956) donated to the town 1 by Armido Bonato. Among the parks we may mention the historical gardens at Villa Bembiana, in Monterosso. Lying at the foot of the hill, its rich vegetation includes many species of the Mediterranean Maquis, and specimens of holm oak. The villa, which is not open to the public, was home to the poet, historian and philologist (15th - 16th century). At the end of the First World War the Italian Victory Bulletin was drawn up here. Sanctuaries and monasteries. At Monteortone, just outside Abano Terme, we can find the lovely sanctuary dedicated to the “Madonna della Salute” (Madonna of Health). The church was built in the 15th century at the place where, in 1428, a soldier named Pietro Falco was miraculously cured of the plague when he found a wooden image of the Virgin in a small cave and then bathed in the waters of a fountain that 2 flowed at the foot of Monteortone Hill. The church, in the form of a Latin cross with an apsidal nave and two 1 Abano Terme, Sanctuary of the Madonna della Salute at aisles and a bell tower dating back to the 15th century still Monteortone, detail of the old monastery. houses the miraculous image of the Madonna, and each 2 Horse riding on the hills around the Euganean Spa. year is visited by many pilgrims. Inside, the church 3/4 Abano Terme, S. Daniele monastery. 5 Abano Terme, Municipal Art Gallery at Montirone, Pitocchetto, th is decorated with many paintings from the 15 century, self-portrait. including frescoes of saints, prophets and kings in the 6 Abano Terme, Cloisters in the old monastery annexed leftnave, and some frescoes by Jacopo da to the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Salute at Monteortone. Below, Abano Terme, detail of the pedestrian area with the Grand Hotel Orologio. Abano Terme. Main events and traditional festivals. • Late April - early May: International Youth Football Tournament. • May: VIPpittura, Italian TV-stars realize works of art to raise money for charity purposes. • June/July: AbanoLirica, Opera concerts. • Late August: International Show Jumping. • September: Festival Show, music event. • From 20th December to 6th January: Christmas Decorations Fair. • Weekly market: Wednesday.

34 in the of the Crucifix and on the walls of both aisles, beautiful marble bas-reliefs in the presbytery and the tombs of the monk Simone da Camerino, founder of the annexed Agostinian monastery, and other monks as well as the tomb of the noblewoman Maddalena Cardini Capodivacca (1491). The entrance portal in 5 Istrian stone is also noteworthy, the work of Matteo and Tommaso Allio (1667). Next to the church is the old Agostinian convent, which is now a Salesian institute, with its large Renaissance cloisters. Another important religious centre is the Benedictine Monastery of S. Daniele, nestling on the mountain of the same name. This construction dates back to 1075, built by the noble da Montagnon family in honour of the Paduan martyr Daniele. In 1461 it was home to the canons of S. Salvatore, and from 1772 until the mid 1900s it was the private residence of the Bonomi- Todeschini family. Today it is home to the enclosed order of Benedictine , whose original nucleus came from Rijeka in 1948. Within the complex, the church, built in 1711 by Francesco Muttoni, a panoramic loggia and some rooms on the ground floor are open to the public. 6 13 Montegrotto Terme.

Together with Abano, Montegrotto Terme constitutes the main centre of the Euganean Spa. According to archaeological sources, the ancient lakeside sanctuary, frequented by the people of Veneto between the 8th and 3rd centuries BC stood exactly here, in the area between Monte Castello and Colle Montagnone. The lake covered around 2 square kilometres and was round in shape, originating from a spa water spring. The sulphurous exhalations, considered to be divine, came naturally and powerfully from the centre of the earth and were revered with votive offerings, including vases, chalices, cups and glasses. 1

Marble slab with inscription from the 1st century AD attesting the cult of the waters of Aponus, “A.A.V.S.L.M. Aquis Aponi votum solvit libens merito,” 1 now displayed 1 Montegrotto Terme, detail of the archaeological digs at the Maffeiano at the Hotel Terme Neroniane. Museum in . 2 Montegrotto Terme, Roman columns in the gardens of the Hotel Terme Neroniane. Below, Montegrotto Terme, Villa Draghi. 2 From the 2nd century BC onwards, in Roman times, the lake lost its sacred function and Montegrotto became a large, famous spa location. The current name of this place is in fact Roman, Mons Aegrotorum, meaning the mountain of the sick. Ancient Latin authors described the Euganean spa waters as prodigious and, as Claudian writes, “without damage, they renew lost vigour and calm the sicknesses of the suffering, who return to good health”. The origin of these therapeutic properties was attributed to the presence of Aponus, the god protector of the springs. Still in Roman times, in addition to their curative properties the waters were also attributed with special oracular powers. According to literary sources, oracle of Gerion was consulted in the ancient S. Pietro Montagnon, today known as Montegrotto. In the archaeological area in the centre of Montegrotto Terme the foundations of some buildings dating back to the Julius-Claudius period can be seen, and these represent just 3

3 Montegrotto Terme, Bell tower at the Oratorio della Madonna. 4 Montegrotto Terme, Berta Tower on Mount Castello, private property. 5 Montegrotto Terme, Town hall. 6 Montegrotto Terme, “Alberi metallici”, glass sculpture 4 5 by Del Negro. The legend of Berta. Legend has it that in 1084 Henry IV of Germany and his wife Bertha of Savoy were guests of the noble Da Montagnon family (from Montagnon, the ancient medieval Montegrotto). During their stay, a poor spinner came before the queen. She had the same name as the queen, and was as beautiful as she was poor, and she begged for clemency for her imprisoned husband, bringing a gift of a reel of thread. Taking pity upon her, the queen granted the pardon of the prisoner, and as much land as could be cordoned off with the reel of thread that the poor spinner had presented to her. Word of the queen’s 6 compassionate gesture spread quickly, and many other women hurried to the castle to try to obtain the same treatment, but a small amount of the rich imperial spa town, which was the queen replied with the famous phrase, “Berta’s spinning certainly one of the most representative of the “X Regio time has long since passed”. Each year the municipality Venetia et Istria”. Among the findings, some baths, one of Montegrotto Terme organises the re-evocation of this of which has marble flooring, spa water pipes, the remains ancient legend, an entertaining display in medieval costume. of an aqueduct and the foundations of a range of buildings.

15 Not to be missed.

Villa Draghi: set against the splendid backdrop of a park measuring 316,000 m2, this beautiful 19th century villa lies on a small hill half way up Mount Alto. It is a unique example of eclectic architecture, close to the Venetian and oriental styles with typical medieval elements, and this buil- ding, which has been uninhabited for a long time and is in a poor state of abandon, has unfortunately been stripped of its most important architectural furnishings, of which today only some rare photos remain. The villa still conserves its crowning Ghibelline battlements, which give it the appearance of a castle. A nature trail, called the “Villa Draghi and Mount 1 Ceva Pathway”, 1 Montegrotto Terme, departs from out- Cathedral. side the villa. This 2 Montegrotto Terme, Villa Callas, detail is one of the main of the entrance portal. hill walks in the 3 Montegrotto Terme, Regional Park of International Artistic the Euganean Hills. Glass and Spa Museum. Approximately 10 4 Montegrotto Terme, Butterfly Arc km long, it offers and Fairy wood. splendid view of Below, Montegrotto one of the most Terme, Butterfly Arc – rich and varied Butterfly House. hillside environ- 2 ments, with chestnut, acacia With the fall of the Western Roman Empire, a long period and oak woods, of darkness and silence reigned, and the Spas suffered from vast meadows, an economic and urban slump. Mediterranean In medieval times the Spas were still in use, but it was only maquis, vineyards, 3 and rocky sections with their typical rocky vegetation. The International Artistic Glass and Spa Museum has been housed inside the Villa Draghi farmhouse, since December 2005, displaying more than 500 works by Giordano Guarnieri, historical master glassmaker from Murano, Umberto del Negro and other master glassmakers from Murano including Venini and the Toso brothers. A section displays precious archaeological findings from the Roman period, which were discovered in Montegrotto Terme. Oratorio della Madonna: the current building of the old parochial quarters of Montegrotto dates back to 1724, with the bell tower from the 18th century, probably built from a castle tower. 4 Cathedral: built in the mid-18th century on the flattened from the 15th century, with the arrival of the nobility summit of Prebenda hill, this new church houses modern of the Serenissima that they were restored to their ancient frescoes by Armando Migliolaro and sculptures splendour, frequented for both therapy and pastime. by Luigi Strazzabosco. In the 18th century the first organic scientific studies were carried out on the composition and provenance of the waters, and in modern times the use of the waters and spa mud for therapeutic purposes led to the development of the Euganean Spas, which are now among the most famous and loved destinations of spa tourism in Europe.

16 5 Butterfly Arc-the butterfly P.G. Omesti permanent exhibition of fossils, minerals house: thousands of tropical and rocks: rich collection of materials from all over butterflies fly freely around the world, with an important and large variety of rocks this extraordinary place and minerals that form the earth’s crust and the particularity open to all, scientists, of the forms of life that have populated the earth in the students, butterfly lovers various geological eras. It is a reference point for lovers and other visitors; walking and students of mineralogy and palaeontology. through the tropical gardens Villa Meneghini: also known as Villa Callas, it is possible to observe as GiovanBattista Meneghini, the owner in the mid 1900s, the life of these splendid was also married to Maria Callas. The building in Caposeda creatures, and watch their dates back to 1559. Following careful restoration, it is now evolution from egg to adult the headquarters of the International Atelier of the Plastic butterfly, their splendid Arts, run by Master del Negro. colours and infinite forms. Torre al Lago: the suggestive ruins of this late medieval The complex also includes tower, which was once the fortified residence of the Dell’Arena the Fairy Wood and a large family, provide refuge for a group of bandits led by insectarium. 6 the infamous brigand Giovanni Stella in the 19th century. 5 Montegrotto Terme, “Therapy, Holiday and Tourism Board” building, by Fulvio Pendini depicting the legend of Berta. Montegrotto Terme. 6 Montegrotto Terme, Oratorio Main events and traditional festivals. della Madonna. • Early May: Flower Festival, exhibition and market. Below, Montegrotto Terme, • Early June: Beer Festival. archaeological digs, detail • Late June: Traditional Saint Peter’s Fair. of the theatre cavea. • September: “Il tempo di Berta”, historical display with medieval costumes. • 2nd Sunday of the month: Antiques market. • Weekly market: Thursday. .

Ancient settlement on the south-eastern slopes of Mount Rua, where the valleys Pavaglione and Cingolina meet, Galzignano Terme conserves a natural and practically uncontaminated environment with mainly rural settlements, making it the ideal destination for those wishing to spend a relaxing holiday close to nature. The territory is still scattered with noble villas built by rich families from Padua and who loved the pleasant and fertile Galzignano valleys. One outstanding example is Villa Barbarigo Pizzoni Ardemani, at Valsanzibio, with its historical gardens that are among the most important gardens in Europe. The green, variable 1

1 Euganean hills, view. 2 Valsanzibio di Galzignano Terme, Villa Barbarigo- Pizzoni Ardemani gardens, Diana’s Portal. 3-4 Valsanzibio di Galzignano Terme, Villa Barbarigo-Pizzoni Ardemani, detail 2 3 of the gardens. natural countryside has earned the attention and development of two splendid golf courses: Golf Club Padova -27 holes -, founded in 1962 is the historical provincial club of Padua, and the Golf Club Terme at Galzignano with 9 holes, opened in 1999 with a wealth of water features and lakes.

Not to be missed. Villa Barbarigo Pizzoni Ardemani gardens: the historical garden of Valsanzibio is one of the historic natural features of excellence in Italy. Surrounded by a splendid hillside amphitheatre, it was created in the second half of the 17th century by the Venetian noble Zuane Francesco Barbarigo, helped by his son Antonio, and is still today one of the most important and intact historical gardens in Europe. The high symbolism of the park was inspired by Gregorio Barbarigo, cardinal and later saint, while the design is attributed to the most important papal architect and fountain maker of the 17th century, Luigi Bernini. In this historical garden, water animates an extraordinary world of fountains, streams and fishponds. Between high box hedges and secular trees, seventy works of art, mostly by Merengo, and as many again by lesser artists, blend in with architectural elements, streams, waterfalls, fountains, lakes, water features and fishponds arranged among trees and shrubs covering an area of fifteen hectares. It includes significant features including the great Maze, 4 18 5

but extended to its current size in the mid 17th century. Footpaths: from Galzignano Terme some of the most pleasant and interesting trails in the Regional Park of the Euganean hills can be followed. The Mount Venda trail starts at Casa Marina in Sottovenda: this hill (601 m.) is the highest in the Euganean hill range, and is rich in landscape, nature and historical-monumental features, including the suggestive ruins of the Olivetani Monastery. The Monte Gallo, Monte delle Grotte and Monte delle Basse trail starts at Case Steogarda, offering splendid views of the Monte Rua hermitage, the villages of Galzignano and Valsanzibio and many hills including hill with the Federiciano Dungeon.

Rabbit Island, the Monument of Time and the Water effects, 5 Valsanzibio Diana’s bath (the old monumental entrance) and three large di Galzignano fishponds broken with fountains was designed and built Terme, Villa to symbolise the path of man towards his own perfectibility Barbarigo- and salvation. Pizzoni Ardemani, S. Maria Assunta: in a splendid position on a green hill detail shaded by cypress trees, this ancient and disused church still of the maze. conserves traces of some 17th century frescoes. 6 Olive groves Pieve di S. Lorenzo: immersed in a tranquil atmosphere on the reminiscent of days gone by, the hamlet of S. Lorenzo runs Euganean hills. 7 Galzignano along the crest of Mount Staffolo through farmyards, Terme, view vegetable patches, gardens and vineyards as far at the 6 of the spa halls. Church of S. Lorenzo, dating back to the 11th century Galzignano Terme. Main events and traditional festivals. • 1st Sunday in May: Spring Festival, olive oil fair at Valsanzibio. • 1st Sunday in October: Galzignano Terme: Rosario Fair and “Palio dei mussi” (mule race). • Weekly Market: Wednesday.

7 19 .

Bordered to north and south by two sumptuous princely residences, lying gently between the Hills to the west and meandering canals leading to the sea to the east, Battaglia Terme is a surprising town, totally different from the other towns in the Padua area. Here, everything seems to be linked or related to water. The town stretches along the banks of a wide river, with a footbridge reminiscent of Venice, and houses the only River Navigation Museum in the whole of Italy, as well as being the home to some important hydraulic 1 creations including the Arco di Mezzo have characterised and identified this place. From the 13th (middle arch) and century on, this toponymy has been mixed with the root the Conca di of the verb “battere” (to beat), linked to the incessant, Navigazione (lock). rhythmic sound made by the rollers in the Battaglia paper Even the toponymy mill, which no longer exists but which was very famous of Battaglia, once in centuries gone by. known as Baptalea, is tied to the water Not to be missed. and could have ori- Castello del Catajo: stately 16th ginally meant “the century fortified residence built place of the baths”. on the slopes of Montenovo on the Right from the 11th 2 wishes of Pio Enea degli Obizzi, century in fact, the famous Serenissima commander natural spa grotto and inventor of the howitzer (siege at S. Elena Hill and cannon). The building, which has the relative baths 350 rooms, lounges decorated with splendid frescoes by G.B. Zelotti, 1 Battaglia Terme, favourite apprentice of Paolo Catajo Castle. Veronese, corridors, staircases, a vast 2 Battaglia Terme, historical garden, fountains, park view of Battaglia with free-roaming deer, is one of the Canal. 3 Battaglia Terme, most imposing and complete River Nagivation Patrician villas of the Veneto region, Museum. now used to hold prestigious events Below, Battaglia and congresses. The terrace offers a Terme, splendid view over the surrounding Arco di Mezzo. hillside amphitheatre. 3 Villa Selvatico Sartori: beautiful, fairytale residence built River Navigation Museum: one of its kind in Italy, at the turn of the 16th century by the Selvatico family on it celebrates the intense and fervent mercantile activity the Sant’Elena hill, also known as “stupa” mountain, where along the waterways of Battaglia for more than 7 centuries. an ancient sweating cave can be found. Surrounded by It contains more than four thousand articles, including a large secular park, redesigned by Jappelli in the 19th century, river boats and river boat parts, scale models, historical the villa was recently cleverly renovated, conserving its photographs, drawings and documents, navigation maps, original and unique style, which set a trend for objects used by boatmen on board their vessels, specific Venetian rules, and inside a series of frescoes representing technical texts, equipment used in boathouses, and tools the mythological stories of the city of Padua, by Luca covering the range of crafts linked to river navigation. Ferrari, the decoration of the cupola with the compass rose Oratorio di Santa Maria, better known as the “Pigozzo” by Lorenzo Bedogni, and the Glory of the Selvatico family church (meaning woodpecker, cuckoo), and what remains by Alessandro Varotari, known as “il ” of an old church dating back to 1736, which was (1588-1648). The villa is often used for theatrical demolished at the end of the 1920s. performances, cultural conferences and concerts. On 25th , on the day of a small local festival, “cuchi”, S. Giacomo Church: dating back to 1332, extended small, brightly coloured terracotta birds that make a sound to its current shape similar to the cuckoo song, are sold in the church square. in 1703. It houses Sentiero Ferro di cavallo (Horseshoe path): runs along precious altars, an the hill tops of Montenuovo, Ceva, Castellone, Spinefrasse attractive stoup in and Croce. Thanks to its geological conformation red Verona marble, and the natural and environmental peculiarities, this hill many statues and top area is considered one of the most important altarpieces dating of the Euganean Hills. between the 17th and 18th centuries. Venetian bridge: also known as the “scaìni” bridge (because of its steps, the only bridge of its kind in the 4 Battaglia Terme, Padua area), it has a Villa Selvatico Sartori. 5 Battaglia Terme, River brick built Roman Nagivation Museum arch with a statue (detail). of San Giovanni 6 Battaglia Terme, view Nepomuceno, the 45 of Battaglia Terme. patron saint of the persecuted innocent, invoked against the dangers of the water, the work of a local sculptor dating back to the second half of the 18th century. Battaglia Canal: this canal crosses the town and is completely navigable, offering interesting tourist potential not only due to the expansion of infrastructure including ports and piers but also for the incomparable natural backdrop offered by the Euganean hills. Arco di Mezzo: hydraulic artefact located in the town centre on the eastern bank of the Battaglia Canal, to regulate the flow of the water that, with a drop 6 of between four and seven metres, flows into the bed of the Vigenzone Canal. For centuries it supplied energy Battaglia Terme. to all the factories that made Battaglia famous, and is still Main events and traditional festivals. extremely important today for assuring the optimal • 25th March: Pigozzo Fair, selling the typical “cuchi”. management of all the water in Padua. • 1st Sunday in May: Flowered Canal Festival. Conca di Navigazione: an extraordinary, perfectly • Last Sunday in May: Remada a seconda. event with functioning monument to hydraulic engineering, used all kinds of boats including fun and grotesque craft. to overcome a maximum difference in water level of over • July: Water festival. Election of “Miss Onda”, historical procession seven metres, linking the Battaglia canal, and the Paduan and dressed boats to celebrate the wedding of Battaglia and its canal. • End of August: San Bartolomeo Fair, large open-air market and fun fair. and Euganean territory, with the Rialto-Vigenzone canal, • 11 th November: Battaglia Terme - San Martino fair with chestnut feast. and the sea. • From 22 December to 15 January: Nativity scene on the water. • Weekly market: Saturday.

21 In the mid 19th century the church was extended, with the addition of side and the baptistery, while the beautiful cuspidate bell tower we can still admire today is the original one. Inside, liberty frescoes by Giacomo Manzoni from 1912, and the great altar is the work of (16th century). Palazzetto dei Vicari: built in the 14th century but extended in the 16th century to house the vicars and noble Paduans appointed by the Serenissima during Venetian domination to administrative and military functions, today the building is home to the Contemporary Art Museum dedicated to Dino Formaggio, internationally renowned philosopher and art critic. Rocca Pendice: this is one of the most original rock formations in the hills. It is a wall of volcanic rock, a trachyte seam 130 metres high, frequently used for 1 mountaineering practice. And on the rock summit, half hidden by thick . vegetation, are the remains of the most Lying among the most beautiful of the hills, Teolo has very resistant castle of all the ancient roots, a rich history and an important historical, Euganean hills. This fort, artistic and naturalist heritage. Tradition has it that it was the only one of all the the birthplace of the great Latin historian Titus Livius. hilltop castles, was never The ancient Titulo (Latin for boundary) lies in a strategic taken in battle, and position between the lands of Padua and Este, the two most nature alone was able important Paleovenetian centres. A boundary stone dated to drive it into ruin. To 141 BC found near the church of S. Giustina di Teolo would reach the castle remains, confirm the existence of this border area, which was already also famous for the inhabited in pre-Roman times. In the medieval Teolo was legend of Speronella, one of the largest towns in the Padua area, with a podestà the shortest path starts th tenure in the and Carrarese eras, at the 15 century farms and later a Vicariate of the with at Schivanoia, or follow administrative powers over a very large territory. the “Altavia n. 1 dei Firstly the Napoleonic reorganisation and later that Colli Euganei” path of the Austrians decreased the administrative importance starting near Treponti of Teolo. Today it is one of the most attractive areas 2 di Teolo. of the Euganean hills, and a privileged destination for tourists and day trippers from Padua. 1 Colli Euganei, ruins of the Olivetani monastery on Mount Venda. 2 Teolo, Palazzetto dei Vicari, housing the Dino Formaggio Not to be missed. Contemporary Art Museum. S. Giustina church: mentioned in a papal decree dated 3 Teolo, view with Rocca Pendice in the background. 1297, the old church of S. Giustina was built between 1290 4 Teolo, Benedictine sanctuary on the monte della Madonna. and 1310, while the bell tower was built in 1400. 5 Teolo, church at the sanctuary on the monte della Madonna. 6 Praglia, abbey. 3 Teolo. Main events and traditional festivals. • 4th Sunday in April: Gnocco fair with tasting events offering local specialities. • First half of August: Holidaymakers’ fair. • 2nd Sunday in October, Bresseo di Teolo: ancient fair with large market, food stands and fun fair. • Antiques market: 1st Sunday of the month. 4 • Weekly market: Tuesday, Sunday (from April to September). for its important antique S. Maria di Praglia Abbey: founded in the 11th century, book and illuminated in the medieval and renaissance period this was manuscript restoration, the stronghold of the Benedictine agricultural community carried out by the monks of S. Giustina di Padova, founded in 1448, following which themselves. the abbey was extended and restored with the construction of Oratorio della Croce an elegant church following the designs of Tullio Lombardo, di Villa Teolo: and the reconstruction of part of the monastery. The church the old Crucifix, dedicated to the Assumption still conserves numerous frescoes in poplar wood to the and paintings from the Venetian school and a wooden crucifix right of the great altar, attributed to the circle of . The monastery houses an dates back to the 16th/17th attractive late 15th century covered cloister, a botanical cloi- 5 century and is inspired ster, a rustic cloister, the precious Capitolo Hall and the monu- by the school of . mental refectory and the famous “divine loggia” immortalized Chiesa di San Giorgio at Tramonte: of very ancient by the writer Antonio Fogazzaro in the novel “Piccolo mondo origins, this church houses frescoes dating back to around moderno” (1901). The abbey is known throughout the world the year 1000, roundels with the twelve apostles dating back to the late 15th century and a attributed The legend of Speronella. to the Paduan school Squarcione. According to the legend, in 1166 Count Pagano della Torre, vicar of Federico Barbarossa, fell in love with Speronella, Footpaths: a sensual beauty from Padua betrothed to Iacopino da From Teolo there are two splendid walks signposted by the Carrara. Having kidnapped her, he locked her away in the Regional Park of the Euganean Hills: the Monte Grande Roccapendice Fort and convinced her father to allow him path, with a deviation to the ruins of castle, and to marry her instead. But the Paduan noblemen, led by the Monte della Madonna path, including a visit to two Iacopino managed to fight their way into the castle, killing ancient religious sites, the small S. Antonio Abate oratory Pagano and freeing Speronella. According to historic fact, dating back to the 14th century however, as told by the judge Manfredino di Ugone, Count and the Sanctuary dedicated to Pagano was in fact just one of Speronella’s six husbands, the Virgin Mary with its small to be exact the second, after she had left her first husband, Benedictine monastery. Iacopino da Carrara, in her conceited determination to marry the imperial vicar.

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Abano Terme How to get there: Via P. d'Abano, 18 Tel. +39 049 8669055 - Fax +39 049 8669053 By Air: Venice, Airport E-mail: [email protected] (approx. 60 km. away). Mon-Sat 8.30-13.00 / 14.30-19.00 By Rail: Terme Euganee . Sun 10.00-13.00 / 15.00-18.00 By Road: Motorway A13 Padua-: (sundays opening only during high season) exit Padua Sud-Terme Euganee. Motorway A4 Venice-Milano: Montegrotto Terme exit Padua Ovest, Padua Est. Viale Stazione, 60 Tel. +39 049 8928311 Fax +39 049 795276 E-mail: [email protected] Mon-Sat 8.30-13.00 / 14.30-19.00 AIRPORT 2nd Sun 10.00-13.00 / 15.00-18.00 (sundays opening only during high season) MOTORWAY EXITS Battaglia Terme TOWNS Via Maggiore, 2 EUGANEAN HILLS Tel. +39 049 526909 - Fax +39 049 9101328 VENEZIA E-mail: [email protected] AIRPORT Seasonal opening DIRECTION TRIESTE MOTORWAY A4 Teolo DIRECTION MILANO c/o Palazzetto dei Vicari VERONA MOTORWAY A4 Tel. +39 049 9925680 - Fax +39 049 9900264 AIRPORT E-mail: [email protected] Seasonal opening

MOTORWAY A13

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Provincia di Comune di Comune di Comune di Comune di Padova Abano Terme Montegrotto Terme Galzignano Terme Battaglia Terme Teolo February 2009 © Foto: Archivio Turismo Padova Terme Euganee, Consorzio Terme Euganee Abano-Montegrotto, L. Masarà, Francesco e Matteo Danesin, Alberto Campanile, FotoStudio 23, Comune di Padova-Gabinetto Fotografico, Museo Nazionale Atestino, Parco Regionale Colli Euganei, Ottica Turlon, Antonio Mazzetti, Butterfly Arc, Soprintendenza Archeologica per il Veneto, Salvador Condè, Comune di Abano Terme, Villa Barbarigo Pizzoni Ardemani, Museo Civico della Navigazione Fluviale, Comune di Teolo, L. Zilli.