Best attractions and places to see around Roncaro, a municipality in the Province of Pavia, Lombardy, Italy, serves as a tranquil base for exploring the historical and cultural offerings of the surrounding region. Located approximately 12 kilometers northeast of Pavia, the area provides access to significant landmarks and scenic routes. It offers opportunities for those who enjoy hiking or cycling, with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
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A memorial to the laundresses. Thanks to Willem VS for his excellent descriptions!
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A dignified, impressive building in a wonderful park. A must-see.
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This imposing brick castle was built between 1360 and 1365 by order of Galeazzo Visconti and served as a fortification and residence. The north wing of the castle was destroyed at the battle of Pavia (1525) between the French and the Spanish. Petrarch loved the building and assembled a rich library there, which later moved to France. The large courtyard has arcades and an ornate loggia with twin windows.
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According to legend, some pilgrims wanted to attend midnight mass in the city on Christmas Eve in 999, but due to the thick fog their boats could not cross the river. Suddenly, a man dressed in red arrived and promised that he would immediately build a bridge in exchange for the first soul to cross the bridge. The man in red was the devil, and only the Archangel Michael, who had come from the nearby church, recognized him. Michael pretended to agree to the deal, but once the bridge was built, a goat crossed it first. The bridge is therefore also known as the Ponte del Diavolo ("Devil's Bridge").
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The covered bridge has its origins in Roman times. The current one was constructed in the 14th century and covered in 1583. Upstream of the bridge you can still see pillars of the original bridge, reconstructed after the Second World War. A memorial stone on the bridge tells that Albert Einstein stayed in Pavia for several months and loved the place.
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The Statua della Lavandaia in Pavia is one of the symbols of the city. This beautiful sculpture, created by local artist Giovanni Scapolla in 1981, recalls the time when the banks of the Ticino River were populated by women who washed clothes in the river. Giovanni Scapolla was inspired by his mother, a famous washerwoman named 'Sciura Teresina', who always wore a traditional 'caplina' on her head. Names of the washerwomen: The washerwomen often had nicknames related to physical characteristics. The most famous was 'Angiuleta', but there were others such as 'Marieta dai pe tort' (with crooked feet) and 'Gianina la culona' (the plump one). Method: The women worked all day on the riverbank. The clothes were soaked overnight in large concrete containers and then washed by the river using a wooden board (‘a scägn’). Men and children collected the washed clothes and delivered them throughout the city. It was hard and unprofitable work, with only one or two lira each. Singing and entertainment: To pass the time, the washerwomen often sang. One of their favorite songs was “La donna è mobile” from Verdi's opera Rigoletto. They even adapted the text: 'La dona l'è UN MOBIL da met in sala, l'om l'è un asin da met in stala', referring to the fact that men walked around all day while the women stood still to to wash.
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Very beautiful and impressive castle!
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The region around Roncaro is rich in history and culture. You can visit the magnificent Certosa of Pavia (Charterhouse of Pavia), a monumental complex with a monastery and sanctuary. Another significant site is the Visconti Castle of Pavia, an imposing medieval fortress. Don't miss the Cathedral of Pavia with its impressive dome, and the iconic Ponte Coperto (the Covered Bridge) in Pavia. Closer to Roncaro, you can find the Oratory of the Blessed Virgin of the Addolorata and the historic Campomorto Abbey.
Yes, several attractions in the area are suitable for families. The Certosa of Pavia, the Visconti Castle of Pavia, the Cathedral of Pavia, and the Ponte Coperto are all categorized as family-friendly. Additionally, the Statue of the Washerwoman in Borgo Ticino offers an interesting historical insight that can engage children.
While Roncaro itself is a tranquil base, the surrounding region offers scenic routes and natural beauty. The area provides panoramic views, such as those found along Via Panoramica, which may offer glimpses of lakes like Lake Maggiore. The Statue of the Washerwoman in Pavia is also considered a viewpoint, offering a perspective on the Ticino River and Borgo Ticino.
The region around Roncaro is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous opportunities for hiking and cycling. For hiking, explore routes like the easy 'Hiking loop from Montemaino' or moderate options such as 'Hiking loop from University of Pavia'. For cycling, there are various routes, including the 'View of the Coperto Bridge – Ticino River Embankment loop' for touring bicycles or the 'Ciaparat Chapel – Banine Climb: Cortesa loop' for road cycling. You can find more details and routes in our dedicated guides for Hiking around Roncaro, Cycling around Roncaro, and Road Cycling Routes around Roncaro.
While specific seasonal recommendations for Roncaro aren't detailed, generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in Lombardy. These seasons typically avoid the summer heat and winter cold, making for more comfortable exploration of the region's trails and attractions.
The Statue of the Washerwoman in Pavia is listed as wheelchair accessible, making it an option for visitors with mobility needs. For other attractions, it's advisable to check their specific accessibility information before visiting.
The Certosa of Pavia (Charterhouse of Pavia) is a stunning historical monumental complex comprising a monastery and a sanctuary, renowned for its art and architecture. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Visiting hours vary by season: 9:00-11:30 and 14:30-16:30 from November to February; 9:00-11:30 and 14:30-17:00 in March and October; 9:00-11:30 and 14:30-17:30 in April; and 9:00-11:30 and 14:30-18:00 from May to August. Guided tours are available every half hour, and an offer is requested at the end of the tour.
The Ponte Coperto (the Covered Bridge) in Pavia is an iconic bridge connecting the historic center of Pavia to Borgo Ticino. While the current bridge was inaugurated in 1951, it was designed to recreate the appearance of the ancient 14th-century covered bridge, which itself replaced a Roman-era structure. It features five arches, is fully covered, and has a small religious chapel in the center, making it a distinctive landmark.
The Visconti Castle of Pavia is an imposing medieval fortress built in the 14th century. While its beautiful courtyard is always accessible, the interior, which houses interesting museums, can typically be visited in the afternoons. The castle is set within a park and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Yes, beyond the Ponte Coperto in Pavia, in the Borgo Ticino district, you can find the Statue of the Washerwoman. This sculpture, created in 1981, commemorates the women who historically washed clothes along the banks of the Ticino River, offering a unique insight into the area's past and local traditions.
The Cathedral of Pavia is a significant religious building known for its central plan and large dome, which was completed in 1885. Its construction began in 1487, with initial designs influenced by figures like Donato Bramante and Leonardo da Vinci. The interior features a Greek cross structure with three naves and a presbytery illuminated by high windows.
Visitors appreciate the rich historical and artistic heritage of the area, particularly the majestic Certosa of Pavia and the iconic Ponte Coperto. The blend of impressive architecture, historical depth, and the tranquil setting provides an unforgettable experience for those interested in art and history. The komoot community has shown strong appreciation, with over 400 upvotes and more than 120 photos shared for these attractions.


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