When: everyday
Where: Via Venezia 4, Padua
Distance from Residence La Mason: 57 km, 40 minutes.
The Parco d’Europa is located in the north-eastern area of the historic center of Padua and it extends over more than 5 hectares: it is the amazing result of an urban redevelopment project and it lies where once most of the Paduan industry was concentrated .
The park hosts a large number of native plants from the Euganean Hills, and was designed in collaboration with the architect Klaus Jürgen Evert. In the very heart of the park there is also the Crystal Garden, a glass and steel greenhouse designed by the engineer Paolo Salvagnini and the architect Luca Mosele. Its shape resembles a flower corolla and the structure’s height raises gradually from 4.5 m to 9. With its sober but soft lines, the Crystal Garden is the home of various imported species, including aloe, agave and plants from America and Africa.
What to do at Parco d’Europa
In the summer, the Parco d’Europa hosts the Parco della Musica: during the day you can find deckchairs, umbrellas and stands, while in the evening concerts, events and shows turn this area into a dynamic and lively place. The Parco della Musica is also the first garden in Padua to be completely plastic free, since it exclusively uses biodegradable and compostable dishes. This is combined with the EC(H2)O campaign, which consists of a series of actions and initiatives that aim to enhance green spaces and raise awareness of environmental issues and waste disposal.
The Parco d’Europa is the perfect place to spend an afternoon outdoors. Furthermore, an elevated walkway connects the park to the Piovego embankment, so as to allow easy access to the river for a walk along its shore.
Information for visitors
The Parco d’Europa is always open, while the Crystal Garden can be visited on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10.00 to 12.00. On Sunday, however, it is open on request with the following schedule: from November to February, from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 14.30 to 16:30, from March to October from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 16:30 at 18.30. Visits are guided and free but, since the maximum capacity is 15 people at a time, it is advisable to book by calling 049 8204414 Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 12.00 and from 15.00 to 18.00. Closed in August.
