Religious Structures To Visit in Venice
Updated: May 2023
Venice is home to a wealth of stunning religious buildings, including churches, scuole or guild houses, and synagogues. These structures range from sparkling and well-maintained to grimy and disused, but all are worth visiting for their unique architecture and history.
One must-see church is the Chiesa di San Giorgio Maggiore, founded in the early 10th century and designed by the great Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio. The church features a classical facade with interlocking triangles, rectangles, and columns, all carefully proportioned for a harmonious effect. Inside, the whitewashed surfaces and unadorned space showcase Palladio’s love of stark majesty. Don’t miss the two epic paintings by Tintoretto near the main altar.
Another must-see is the Basilica di San Marco, a remarkable place of worship that blends Byzantine, Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. Its greatest treasure is the magnificent Pala d’Oro altarpiece, a Gothic masterpiece encrusted with nearly 2,000 precious gems and 255 enameled panels.
The Chiesa Santa Maria dei Miracoli is one of Europe’s most attractive religious buildings, resembling an elaborate box of chocolates. Designed by local artist Pietro Lombardo, the church is adorned with marble, bas-reliefs, and statues. The timber ceiling is also a highlight.
The Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, completed in 1443, is an elegant brick tower that eschews the external decoration typical of French and German Gothic architecture. Built by Franciscans, it has long been considered a memorial to Venice’s ancient glories. Don’t miss Giovanni Bellini’s Madonna and Child in the sacristy.
The Cattedrale di San Pietro di Castello was Venice’s cathedral from 1451 to 1807. Located on the island of San Pietro, it is home to the Trono di San Pietro, which legend says was used by the Apostle Peter in Antioch and once held the Holy Grail.
Finally, the Chiesa di San Martino is named after St. Martin of Tours and is famous for its ceiling fresco depicting the Gloria di San Martino.
When visiting these sacred buildings, be sure to dress appropriately to avoid embarrassment or disappointment.
