Montagnana: a journey into the Middle Ages among walls, towers and flavors
Montagnana is one of the most extraordinary walled towns in Europe. Located in the Paduan plain, on the western edge of the Euganean Hills, it is a jewel of medieval military architecture, culture, art and gastronomy. Included among the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy”, it impresses with its well-preserved 14th-century walls, enclosing a charming and compact historic center.
The walls and fortified gates
The walls of Montagnana, about 2 kilometers long, are still fully intact and walkable. Over 8 meters high and punctuated by 24 towers, they were built in the 14th century by the Carraresi family. The four main gates are:
- Porta Padova, flanked by Castel San Zeno, an imposing fortress now housing the Civic Museum;
- Porta Vicenza, adorned with battlements and watchtowers;
- Porta XX Settembre and Porta Legnago, which complete the defensive perimeter.
Walking along the ramparts or admiring the views from the towers feels like traveling back in time, surrounded by an authentic medieval atmosphere.
The historic center and landmarks
Inside the walls lies a compact, well-preserved town rich in artistic heritage. Key landmarks include:
- Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a majestic Venetian-Gothic building with frescoes and works by Veronese;
- Palazzo Valeri, with refined Renaissance decoration;
- Villa Pisani, a noble residence designed by Andrea Palladio just outside the town;
- Teatro Bellini, a 19th-century gem of theatrical architecture.
Every corner tells a story and invites discovery at a leisurely pace, among artisan shops and traditional cafés.
Montagnana’s dry-cured ham
Montagnana is also renowned across Italy for its gastronomic specialty: the sweet DOP dry-cured ham, crafted by hand and aged for up to 18 months. The local microclimate and the absence of preservatives give the product a uniquely sweet and tender flavor.
Each year in late May, Montagnana hosts the Ham Festival, featuring tastings, food stalls, concerts and guided tours of the local ham producers.
Events and historical reenactments
Montagnana is a stage for vibrant events that celebrate its deep historical roots:
- Palio of the 10 Municipalities of Montagnana, held in September, with knight tournaments, parades and medieval performances;
- Medieval Montagnana, a summer reenactment with camps, craft shops and jousts;
- Art and photography exhibitions, hosted in historical buildings;
- Antique and artisan markets, regularly held in the old town.
The town stays lively all year long with a rich and well-curated cultural calendar.
Nature, itineraries and relaxation
Nature lovers can take advantage of the bike trails connecting Montagnana to nearby villages and the Euganean Hills. The flat landscape makes every outing easy and enjoyable.
There are also green areas, picnic spots and farmhouses nestled in the Venetian countryside, where visitors can savor local products and relax among vineyards and open fields.
How to reach Montagnana from Hotel La Corte
Montagnana is about 45 minutes by car from Hotel La Corte. It can also be reached by train, with connections via Monselice or Este depending on the route.
This is a perfect day-trip destination, which can be combined with a visit to nearby villages like Este or Cologna Veneta.