Jewish Ghetto

Overview

The Venetian Ghetto is the world's original ghetto — the word itself derives from 'geto,' the Venetian term for the foundry that once stood here. Established in 1516, this small island in Cannaregio confined Venice's Jewish population behind locked gates for nearly three centuries.

Highlights

• Five Synagogues: Remarkable synagogues from different Jewish communities (Ashkenazi, Sephardic, Italian) tucked discreetly into the upper floors of buildings.
• Tall Buildings: The ghetto's distinctive high-rise buildings — some reaching seven stories — were built upward because the community couldn't expand outward.
• Jewish Museum: A small but moving museum documenting the community's history, with guided synagogue tours.

History

Venice permitted Jews to live only in this enclosed area from 1516. Gates were locked from sunset to sunrise and guarded by Christian watchmen. Napoleon abolished the ghetto in 1797. Today a small Jewish community remains.

Visitor Tips

• Guided Synagogue Tours: The only way to see the synagogue interiors is via the museum's guided tours.
• Quiet Respect: The area is still a living community; be mindful of Shabbat observances.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.