an ancient and celebrated town of Italy, in the duchy of Milan, and capital of the Pavese, with an university and bishop's see. It is defended by strong walls, large ditches, good ramparts, excellent bastions, and a bridge over the river Tafin. In the centre of the town is a strong castle, where the duke of Milan was wont to reside. There are a great number of magnificent castles, and some colleges. It was taken by the duke of Savoy in 1706; by the French in 1733; by the French and Spaniards in 1745; but retaken by the Austrians in 1746. E. Long. 9. 5. N. Lat. 45. 10.