Certosa  di  Pavia​

Latest update: 26 February 2022
​The Certosa di Pavia was built in 1465 and is situated within the Province of Pavia, officially part of the Comune of Certosa di Pavia.

The city of Pavia itself is nine kilometres to the south while places of interest nearby include Vigevano, Milan, Lodi, Crema and Pizzighettone. The recommended accommodation for the Certosa is the ​Hotel Ristorante Italia, just 300 metres away. 
Related links
The Certosa di Pavia, also known as the Certosa of Pavia, is a magnificent Carthusian monastery located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy. This grand religious complex is renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate decorations, and rich artistic heritage, making it one of Italy's most remarkable religious sites.

History: The Certosa di Pavia was founded in 1396 by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, Duke of Milan, as a lavish mausoleum and monastery for his family. Construction began under the supervision of architect Marco Solari and continued for over a century. The original plans envisioned a structure similar to the Certosa di Charteuse in France, hence the name "Certosa."

Over the centuries, the Certosa di Pavia underwent numerous alterations and additions, with contributions from various architects and artists. Despite the numerous changes, the monastery retains its unique blend of architectural styles, including Lombard Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.

Tourist Information: The Certosa di Pavia attracts visitors with its architectural beauty, historical significance, and artistic treasures:

  • Architectural Marvel: The Certosa showcases a harmonious blend of architectural styles, featuring intricate facades, ornate sculptures, and beautifully decorated interiors.
  • Facade and Cloister: The facade of the church is an impressive example of Lombard Gothic architecture, adorned with statues, bas-reliefs, and rose windows. The cloister is a peaceful courtyard surrounded by elegant arches and columns.
  • Church and Chapels: The church's interior boasts exquisite artwork, including frescoes, paintings, and sculptures by renowned artists such as Bergognone and Bernardino Luini. The chapels house impressive tombs and altars.
  • The Great Cloister: The Great Cloister is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, known for its elegant arcades and richly decorated walls.
  • Refectories and Library: The monastery complex includes grand refectories and a magnificent library that holds a vast collection of ancient manuscripts and books.
  • Gardens and Grounds: The Certosa di Pavia is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parklands, perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for visitors who wish to explore the history and art of the Certosa in depth.
  • Religious Services: The Certosa is still an active monastery, and visitors can attend religious services and experience the spiritual atmosphere.
  • Accessibility: The Certosa di Pavia is easily accessible by car from Milan, making it a convenient day trip for tourists in the Lombardy region.
Comune: Certosa di Pavia

Province: Pavia

Region: Lombardy

​​Built: 1465

​Architectural style: Renaissance

​​​Close by: Pavia, Vigevano, Milan, Lodi, Crema, Pizzighettone

Recommended stay: Hotel Ristorante Italia (300 metres)

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the three thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy, particularly important at the moment at the time of the pandemic, via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.