Statue of Minerva
Sightseeing attraction | Pavia | Lombardia | Italy
The Minerva statue in Pavia, Lombardy, is a prominent landmark of the city. It was created in 1938 by the Italian sculptor Francesco Messina and is made of red marble and bronze. The sculpture depicts the Roman goddess Minerva, who was revered as the patroness of wisdom, the arts, and war.
The statue shows Minerva as a standing figure with her head held high. In her right hand, she holds a lance, while in her left hand she carries a shield. It is noteworthy that the tip of the lance is pointing downwards, possibly symbolizing the superiority of culture over weapons. The inscription on the statue's pedestal reads: "Pavia - Dalla Gloria Millenaria del Suo Ateneo Tragga Auspicio - A Maggiori Fortune".
The Minerva statue is situated on a tall pedestal in the middle of a roundabout, serving as a link between the train station and the historic city center along Viale Vittorio Emanuele II and Corso Cavour. It is not only an artistic masterpiece but also a symbol of Pavia's academic tradition and cultural richness.
Francesco Messina, the creator of the statue, was a significant Italian sculptor of the 20th century. Born in Sicily in 1900, he moved to Genoa at a young age and later to Milan, where he served as the director of the Accademia di Brera. His works can be found in numerous cities and museums worldwide.
The Minerva statue in Pavia is an impressive example of Messina's skill and a significant symbol for the city, embodying the connection between history, art, and education.
