Venice in Spring – The Buildings


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Venice in Spring – The Buildings

Venice in Spring – The Buildings

Firstly, for those who are new to my blog, this is issue 3 of a 4 part series entitled Venice in Spring – The Buildings. It  follows a recent visit to Venice. Just click the links if you’d like to catch up on part 1 or part 2. Secondly, my aim is to provide an overview of my travels including:

  • hints and tips to help with your own travels;
  • favorite locations;
  • inspiration on destinations and things to do;
  • photographs to help bring these places to life.

So back to todays blog. I wanted to talk about the buildings that in their heyday demonstrated the power and wealth that this small city once had.

Venetian Architecture

Varieties of Venetian Architecture here you can see Byzantine and Venetian Gothic - Venice in Spring series

Varieties of Venetian Architecture here you can see Byzantine and Venetian Gothic – Venice in Spring series

Over time the city has amassed a variety of different influences and these can be best seen in its architecture. I’m certainly no expert in architecture, but with a history spanning 1300 years, much of that history can still be seen in its buildings today. Can you imagine the stories you would hear if those walls could talk? Its architecture is just another aspect that makes Venice an amazing place to visit. 

As you make your way through the city, you will walk past the most amazing structures that will make you stop in your tracks. In my opinion, buildings that date back over a 900 year period are certainly worth taking your time over. Some buildings have Byzantine influences, others Gothic and some Renaissance. Because there is such diversity within its architecture, I highly recommend giving yourself plenty of time to take it all in.

Personal Favourites

There is so much to see in Venice, I thought I’d share some of my personal favourites.

  • The Byzantine influenced St Mark’s Basilica (San Marco Basilica);
San Marco Basilica (St Mark's Basilica) Venice in Spring The Buildings

San Marco Basilica (St Mark’s Basilica)

 

Golden Mosaics - Entrance to St Mark's Basilica - Venice in Spring series

Golden Mosaics – Entrance to St Mark’s Basilica – Venice in Spring series

 

  • The Venetian Gothic Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale);
The Doge's Palace - Venice is Spring series

The Doge’s Palace – Venice is Spring series

 

 

Inside the Doge's Palace

Inside the Doge’s Palace

 

  • The Gothic church of Santa Maria Gloria dei Frari;

Santa Maria Gloria dei Frari - Venice in Spring series

Santa Maria Gloria dei Frari – Venice in Spring series

  • The great Baroque church of Santa Maria della Salute;

Santa Maria della Salute - Venice in Spring series

Santa Maria della Salute – Venice in Spring series

 

Paintings by Titian adorn the inside of Santa Maria della Salute

Paintings by Titian adorn the inside of Santa Maria della Salute

  • The stunning Classical revival structure of the main gates of the Arsenale, the Porta Magna.
The main gates of the Arsenale, the Porta Magna - Venice in Spring series

The main gates of the Arsenale, the Porta Magna – Venice in Spring series

 

Things to consider…

At the risk of stating something a little controversial… there are parts of Venice where you will be underwhelmed by what you see around you. Tall, bland buildings that quite frankly are rather dull to look at – particularly up close down narrow alleyways.

However, if you take a minute, step back and look at the shape and style of the architecture and if possible venture inside, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed. Also, the likelihood is that you will discover some wonderful places for yourself. A great example is Santa Maria Gloria dei Frari. This was originally a monastery which has evolved and is now a beautiful church. While it may be plain on the outside, it is full of wonderful works of art inside. The church and the bell tower we see today are over 600 years old.

I’ve included a variety of photographs throughout this post, that I hope will inspire you to explore these wonderful places for yourself. Gloriosa dei Frari was clearly held in high regard and the monument to Titian and choir stalls are worth the 3.50€ entrance fee alone. You can find out more information about the church here.

The stunning choir stalls in Frari - Venice in Spring series

The stunning choir stalls in Santa Maria Gloria dei Frari – Venice in Spring series

 

The monument to Titian in Frari - Venice in Spring series

The monument to Titian in Santa Maria Gloria dei Frari – Venice in Spring series

Point To Note:

Venice is full of churches. Some allow you to take photographs. Some don’t. Check the signs on display before you pull out your camera, phone or any other device that you have for capturing images. The establishments that don’t allow photography generally enforce these rules strictly. Hence when visiting St Mark’s Basilica you will see attendants enforcing their no photography and no talking policy. Please respect these requests as it will ensure everyone who visits is able to enjoy the beauty in equal measure.

I hope you have enjoyed reading this weeks blog and found the information useful. Next time I’ll outline some places to visit during your stay in Venice.

Thanks for reading!

Alicia

 

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