Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua
The Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua is a Catholic church and minor basilica in Padua, in the Veneto region of northern Italy, dedicated to and housing the tomb of Saint Anthony of Padua, one of the most venerated saints of the Catholic world. Construction began around 1232, soon after the saint's death and canonization, and continued through the thirteenth and into the fourteenth century.
Known to locals simply as il Santo, the basilica is an eclectic blend of Romanesque, Gothic and Byzantine elements, crowned by a cluster of domes and minaret-like bell towers that recall St Mark's in Venice. Inside, pilgrims venerate the saint's tomb in the richly decorated Chapel of the Ark, while the high altar features celebrated bronze sculptures and reliefs by the Renaissance master Donatello. The forecourt holds Donatello's equestrian monument to the condottiero Gattamelata, a landmark of Renaissance bronze casting.
One of the most important pilgrimage churches in Italy, the basilica draws millions of visitors and devotees each year, particularly around the saint's feast on 13 June. As a pontifical basilica it is managed under the direct authority of the Holy See, reflecting its special religious significance.
- Annual visitors
- ≈ 6,000,000
- Location
- 45.4015, 11.8809
- Local time
- 00:38 (Europe/Rome)
🕘 Visiting hours
| Mon–Fri | 06:15–18:45 |
| Sat–Sun | 06:15–19:00 |
Free entry; weekend hours approximate (official site lists Mon-Fri 06:15-18:45). Tourist access limited during Masses.
✨ Saints & blessed venerated here
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Saint Anthony of Padua Saint
Patron saint; his tomb, incorrupt tongue and jawbone are enshrined here in the Treasury Chapel.
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Blessed Luca Belludi Blessed
Disciple and companion of St Anthony; buried beside the saint's tomb, with a dedicated frescoed chapel.
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Saint Bonaventure Saint
As Franciscan minister general he conducted the 1263 exhumation of St Anthony; depicted in a statue on the Treasury Chapel balustrade.
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Saint Francis of Assisi Saint
Founder of the Franciscan order that keeps the basilica; statue on the Treasury Chapel balustrade.
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Saint James Saint
The large Gothic Chapel of St James (San Giacomo) in the transept is dedicated to him.
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Saint Felix Saint
Honored in the transept Chapel of St James and San Felice (Cappella di San Felice).
Care & donations
Pontifical Delegation for the Basilica of St Anthony / Order of Friars Minor Conventual
Donations accepted via the Basilica and associated charities (santantonio.org)
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