Piove di Sacco

In the heart of Veneto lies Piove di Sacco. A charming town steeped in history and architectural wonders. Piove di Sacco is more than just a name on a map. It is a testament to time, a place where the echoes of the past intertwine with the vibrancy of the present. Piove di Sacco’s story begins in the 8th century. During the Longobard period, the name “Sacco” denoted the king’s personal territorial properties. Over the centuries, Piove di Sacco found itself at the heart of historical events. These events have left an indelible mark on the town’s character. The most prominent landmark in Piove di Sacco is the Torre Carrarese. This “great tower” is the last vestige of the fortifications erected during the Carrarese era. Atop this tower sits the bell chamber of the nearby Cathedral of Saint Martin. The cathedral itself is a marvel of architecture. Its foundations date back to the 10th century. It has undergone several reconstructions, the most recent between 1893 and 1903. The redesign, by engineer Francesco Gasparini, showcases neo-Romanesque and neo-Gothic styles. Inside, the cathedral houses artistic treasures. These include Giambattista Tiepolo’s altarpiece, Madonna del Carmelo, and Jacopo Sansovino’s altar of the Blessed Sacrament. Another Tiepolo masterpiece, Saint Francis of Paola, graces the sacristy. In Piazza Matteotti, the town hall stands proudly. Designed by Giuseppe Jappelli, it replaced the medieval municipal building in 1818. A short distance from the town center, along the Fiumicello River, lies the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace. This sanctuary adds another layer of artistic significance to Piove di Sacco. Piove di Sacco has also played a unique role in Jewish history. It was the first town in the region to welcome Jews. Before 1373, a Jewish consortium established a moneylending bank here. In 1455, when Padua’s Jews were prohibited from lending money, they moved their operations to nearby towns, including Piove di Sacco. Piove di Sacco is especially renowned for its Hebrew printing press. In 1475, Meshullam Cusi Rafa and his sons established a press here. They published the first Seliḥot prayer book in nonvocalized square type and the first volume of Jacob b. Asher’s Arba’ah Turim. This was the second dated Hebrew book printed in Italy. The legacy of Piove di Sacco continues to resonate. It is a town of historical significance, artistic treasures, and cultural richness. As you explore its streets and admire its landmarks, you’ll discover that Piove di Sacco’s charm lies in its ability to weave together the threads of its past. It creates a vibrant tapestry that continues to captivate visitors.