In the city of Pavia, near Milan in northern Italy

 (on the left bank of the Ticino River, near Milan in northern Italy) Founded by the Romans as a military garrison, the city of Pavia has long occupied a strategic position, both geographically and politically. Located at the center of an agricultural plain, it is an important provincial political player with strong Lega Nord (Northern League) leanings, and its university is considered one of the best in Italy, with previous alumni including explorer Christopher Columbus, physicist Alessandro Volta, and poet and revolutionary Ugo Foscolo.

The University of Pavia, founded in 1361, is linked with the ancient law school, which dates back to 825. The colleges of Ghislieri and Borromeo, founded in the 16th century by Pope Pius V and St. Charles Borromeo, with the addition of the Cairoli, Castiglioni-Brugnatelli, Fraccaro, and Afro-Asiatic colleges, made Pavia the "Oxford of Italy." It is particularly noted for the study of law, science, medicine, and surgery.
In addition to its vibrant atmosphere (the IUSS [Instituto Universitario di Studi Superiori] is a partner in some 300 international exchange programs), Pavia’s historic center preserves a number of marvelous sights.

+ Be sure to take a stroll across the beautiful Ponte Coperto, a covered bridge overlooking the Ticino: