I stayed in
Pavia for three days and, thanks to my friends, I discovered interesting places to shopping, eat and relax.
Shopping
Polvere di Stelle by Annalisa is a fashion boutique in Sannazzaro de' Burgondi where quality and affordable prices are for everyone. With the summer sales season, I seized the moment and looked for something very special to buy. The shop has a fresh appeal and glamorous setup. The interior decors perfectly coordinated with the summer theme of the season. I personally spent more time taking pictures of the setting than choosing my outfits.
Annalisa, the owner, clearly shows her dashing flair with that too, from the tapestry behind the cashier to the white well- embellished shelves. The piece of tapestry recollects a giant colourful gem. The embroideries look sophisticated and finely done. Pink flowers and purple pins surrounded by shiny studs make the perfect frame for the central blossoming art.
Watermelons filled the small shelf and matched the exotic style of the bigger one next to it. The paper and wood fan, representing a village and its river, supports the pair of little statues and lanterns.
The greens and blues make the shop stand out. Clothes are of excellent design and every woman would find a unique piece for an outstanding outfit.
Touring
The
Certosa of Pavia is a magnificent and detailed piece of art located just 7 km north-east from Pavia. It is a monastery and it's an example of Italian Gothic architecture. The construction of the building began in 1396 by the willing of the nobleman and Lord of Milan, Gian Galeazzo Visconti.
The façade is famous for the marbles and the detailed decorations and the interiors for a mix of baroque, classical and renaissance styles. Taking pictures inside is not allowed, while in the external area cameras are welcomed to picture the gardens and the cloisters.
One monastic cell is open to the public eye, in order to demonstrate what living in a cloister means. Spirituality and a simple life are celebrated here, despite the grandeur of the main building.
The entrance at Certosa is free and guided tours are provided every half an hour, but an offering is required when you exit the religious precinct.
Eating
If you wish to taste a good pizza or a superb dinner, the right place to consider is
Ristorante Pizzeria AltaMarea of Garlasco, just 24 km west from Pavia.
The restaurant also specialises in fresh seafood and sweets - the best is the Sacher, a tasty sphere stuffed and covered with chocolate.
The ambience is truly comfortable, with pleasant and professional staff, elegant tables and nice wall paintings. In particular, the Trompe-l'i by artist Arian Llani is simply amazing.
