Santa Maria della Salute

Overview

Santa Maria della Salute is a monumental baroque church commanding the entrance to the Grand Canal. Its distinctive silhouette of a great dome flanked by volute buttresses is one of Venice's most photographed landmarks.

Highlights

• The Great Dome: An octagonal structure 60 meters wide, visible from across the basin of San Marco.
• Titian's Ceiling Paintings: Three major works by Titian in the sacristy, including St. Mark Enthroned.
• Festa della Salute: Every November 21, Venetians cross a pontoon bridge to the church in a centuries-old procession of thanks.

History

Built between 1631 and 1687 by Baldassare Longhena as a votive offering after the devastating plague of 1630 that killed a third of Venice's population. Over a million wooden piles were driven into the seabed to support it.

Visitor Tips

• Sacristy Fee: The church is free; the sacristy with Titian's paintings has a small fee.
• Photo Angle: The best exterior photos are from across the Grand Canal at the San Marco waterfront.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.