Santi Giovanni e Paolo

Overview

The Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo (San Zanipolo in Venetian) is Venice's largest church and the traditional burial place of the doges. Twenty-five doges rest here amid monumental tombs and paintings.

Highlights

• Doge Tombs: Elaborate Gothic and Renaissance funerary monuments lining the walls.
• Giovanni Bellini's Polyptych: A radiant altarpiece of St. Vincent Ferrer.
• Verrocchio's Colleoni Monument: The equestrian bronze statue in the campo outside is one of the Renaissance's greatest sculptures.

History

Built by the Dominican order between 1333 and 1430, the church was modeled on the Frari but intended to be even larger. Its role as the doges' pantheon made it a rival to San Marco in civic importance.

Visitor Tips

• Don't Miss the Campo: The square outside with Verrocchio's statue and the Scuola Grande di San Marco facade is worth lingering in.
• Quiet Interior: Far less crowded than the Frari.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.