The Big Six of Venice
Updated: May 2023
Central Venice is a sight to behold, with its alleyways, monuments, museums, and religious buildings. The historic center of the city comprises 118 islands connected by around 400 bridges, forming an amalgamation divided into six large administrative districts. Here are six of Venice’s top attractions that are sure to amaze tourists:
- The Palazzo Ducale: This pink-and-white marble Gothic-Renaissance residence and government center of the doges is located between the Basilica di San Marco and St. Mark’s Basin. It is one of Italy’s greatest civic structures, built in the 15th century by Alessandro Sforza. The most famous painting on display here is Piero della Francesca’s masterpiece, The Flagellation. Another highlight is the remarkable portrait of Federico and his son Guidobaldo.
- The Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari: More commonly known as the “Frari,” this Venetian Gothic church is just a short walk from San Marco. Filled with great art, one of the best works that can be seen here is Titian’s Assumption over the main altar – a masterpiece depicting the ascension of the Madonna on a cloud surrounded by cherubs.
- Piazza San Marco: In the heart of Venice lies Piazza San Marco, home to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. St. Mark’s is adorned with treasures from every corner of the city’s once far-flung mercantile empire. The facade features a loggia surmounted by replicas of the four famous St. Mark’s horses, the Triumphal Quadriga. The interior is a stunning wonderland of marble, alabaster, porphyry, and pillars.
- The Scuola Grande di San Rocco: One of Venice’s most important scuole, it has a lively facade by Scarpagnino and contains 54 wonders painted by Tintoretto over more than 20 years.
- The Accademia: Many writers say that the glory that was Venice lives on in the Accademia, a grand cathedral of Venetian art filled with light and color. The collection is arranged chronologically, from 14th-century altarpieces by Paolo and Lorenzo Veneziano to works from the former refectory of the Scuola.
- Santi Giovanni e Paolo: This rich monumental public space in Venice is dominated by a huge brick church and overlooked by one of the finest equestrian monuments in the world. Built by the Dominican order from the 13th to 15th centuries, it is home to artistic treasures and the burial place of 25 doges.
A row of cafe-bars and lively atmosphere make this a must-visit destination in Venice.
