Archives for November 2017

Nov 29 2017

Scala Contarini del Bovolo Venice

Hidden inside a small court on the side of Campo Manin, at the end of a tiny street, rise in all its beauty the Scala Contarini Del Bovolo Venice. This staircase, a particular structure for the venetian architecture, is part of the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, a gothic-style palace built between the 14th and 15th century as mansion of the Contarini family. In the end of the 15th century, when the staircase was annexed at the palace, they family name became “Contarini dal Bovolo”.

The Staircase Contarini del Bovolo, a few minutes from St. Mark’s square.

The staircase, 26 meters tall with a diameter of 4.7, was built with bricks and Istria stone and is composed by loggias and arches. You can climb the 80 steps counterclockwise and, on top, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the venetian roofs. The columns and the arches give to the staircase a peculiar aspect. Some experts see a sort of connection between the Gothic period and the Renaissance.

The magnificent view from the top of the staircase.

The entrance ticket for the staircase Contarini del Bovolo is valid for a visit of 30 minutes on the day and time chosen. You can add at you ticket the visit of the Oratorio dei Crociferi. The oratorio is 15-20 minutes far from the Scala Contarini del Bovolo. The Oratorio could be visited in a different day of the Staircase. The Oratorio is opne Fridays and Saturdays from 10-13/14-17. For groups you can organize a visit ,out of this timetable, contacting the reservation office. Entrance is free for children under 12 years who have to be accompanied by an adult. Every adult can accompany 2 children under 12 years.

Ask at the reception for more information!

Nov 21 2017

Castello district Venice

Castello district Venice is the biggest and the second, for inhabitants, of Venice town. It is also the only district that is not on the Grand Canal. It has been one of the first living area of Venice (V-VI century). The district takes its name from the castle who rised. It was built as defense from the attacks coming by sea. You can find also the Arsenale in this district, for centuries the biggest in the world.

San Pietro di Castello Basilica.

Like the other districts, Castello took its shape in the high middle age thanks to colonies. In Castello you can admire the San Pietro di castello basilica , episcopal headquarters until 1807, when Napoleon moved it in Saint Mark’s basilica. In the beginning, the district was divided in two islands, the Gemine and the Olivolo. Together they became the actual district.

In Castello district Venice you can live an unique atmosphere where the heart of the real Venice beats.

If you are walking in this districtyou cannot miss some churches or some fascinating monuments. The ancient Arsenale, the historical Naval museum, the old headquarters of the granaries today hosts maritime memories of Venice. The church of San Francesco Della Vigna, built by Andrea Palladio, or church Santa Maria Formosa, was erected in the 12th century and the rebuilt in 1492, keeping its plan in greek cross. This church is located in a colorful square, surrounded by private palaces of different ages.

Castello district Venice hosts the international art exhibition Biennale and the gardens, a place where to relax for locals and tourists.

Comparing Venice to a fish, Castello could be the tale, being at the extreme East. Here you can live and fell the real Venice, between fish markets and typical stores.

Do not miss the opportunity to stay at the Hotel Bucintoro, located in the Castello district!

Nov 12 2017

Madonna Della Salute feast Venice

The Madonna della Salute feast Venice is a religious feast instituted by the venitian Republic in 1630. This event is celebrated every year on November 21st, since four centuries. It is a very popular feast by the venetian and by the pilgrimages that come to Venice to thank the Holy Mary for miracoulous healings.

The Basilica of the Madonna della Salute.

This feast has the same roots of the Redentore feast. It was born due to the plague in 1630-1631 (narrated by Manzoni in “I promessi sposi”. A desperate Nicolò Contarini, the Duke, and the patriarch Giovanni Tiepolo organized a procession of pray that gathered all the survivors. It lasted for 3 days and 3 nights. The venetian promised that they would have built a temple in honor of the Holy Mary if the town would have survived at the plague. In few weeks the plague stopped, leaving behind 47000 deads (1/4 of the citizens), Duke and patriarch included.

Since 1631, the venetian gathered in procession on November 21st.

The government of Venice decided to build this temple . The designated area was the Dogana as destination of pilgrimages and venue of the new temple. The contest was won by Baldassare Longhena. He built a baroque temple with a octagonal structure overcomes by a majestic dome. The first pilgrimage took place on November 28th 1631, right after the plague.

The temporary bridge allows to reach the basilica della Madonna della Salute from Santa Maria Del Giglio.

Admire the basilica from your room in our hotel! What a view!

Archives for November 2017

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