Pavia (L. Ticinum), 35 km south of Milan, is an old university city with fine Romanesque and medieval buildings, a castle, and an interesting historic center. It is known as the city of 100 towers even though only a few remain intact today.

The city was founded by the Liguri tribe and over the centuries became the capital of the Ostrogoth King Teodorico and the Longobards who built many of the splendid churches, such as the Chiesa di San Michele and the Chiesa di San Lazzaro.

Near here is the Certosa di Pavia, one of the most notable buildings from the Italian Renaissance period.

The River Ticino runs through the center of the city and summer sees many relaxing or holding grill parties along the riverside. Canoeing along Ticino is a plesant experience.

For more info on Pavia try here.