Sunday in Padova

 We had a late start this morning, waiting for some warmth to come. Visiting Europe in May cannot be recommended by me as it is far too cool to feel like holiday weather. Although the weather app may say we had a top of 23, that is only for a brief period and definitely not in the shade or indoors. I am living proof that one pair of jeans and two zip up windcheaters can be worn for a month!

Our first task was to check out a restaurant where we hope to celebrate a birthday tomorrow, and get one more Buon Ricordo plate. We only need one more to fill our wall space.

From there we continued walking to Porta Molino and Ponte Molino. The gate was the main access into the medieval city walls of Padua. The tower was built in the 13th century. The bridge crosses a branch of the Bacchiglione river which was the site of many mills, hence the name of the gate and bridge.

We have only eaten out at night twice since arriving in Italy and Kel was craving pasta so we had lunch in Piazza dell' Erbe where he had a penne amatriciana (not as good as I make according to him). I have been a bit off colour so gave lunch only brief consideration.

Another corner of the map beckoned and we found ourselves at Palazzo del Bo, the University. Founded in 1222 by a group of students and teachers from Bologna, it is the second oldest in Italy.

Opposite is the Municipio, another grand palazzo. View as seen through a large cast iron gate.

Diagonally across from the university building were several other picturesque palazzi.

As we walked down Via Roma we experienced the typical Italian Sunday afternoon activity. Whole families were out walking, dressed to impress, and babies were the centre of attention. The shops were open and doing a great trade with the young, the street cafes were alive with the noise of barking dogs (fur kids) and people enjoying their Sunday. 

Yesterday when we went by Prato della Valle in the tram there was a huge market set up on all the public space up to the island and canals. I think thousands could have bought a pair of shoes and not bought the market out of stock. Today that same space was covered with stalls selling, art, antiques, books, bric-a-brac and other intriguing things.

As we arrived home the sun was shining along our pathway making the roses look very pretty. The vase of roses were in the apartment when we arrived.

Sitting in the sun was enjoyed by all, including the cat that visits.