Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo (Basilica of Sts. John and Paul), Venice
Standing proudly over the picturesque John and Paul Square ("Campo Giovanni e Paolo") in Venice, is this revered basilica – a magnificent jewel of Venice. Complemented by the awe-inspiring equestrian statue of Bartolomeo Colleoni by Andrea del Verrocchio, and the splendid 16th-century facade of the Great School of Saint Mark ("Scuola Grande di San Marco"), this grand Italian Gothic masterpiece has a deep history.
Consecrated in 1430, it belongs to the Dominican order and showcases Bartolomeo Bon's portal, an exquisite blend of Gothic and classical elements incorporating salvaged columns from Torcello. Inside, you'll be mesmerized by the breathtaking 15th-century stained-glass window near the side entrance, crafted in Murano and characterized by vibrant colors and exquisite figures.
As the second official church of the Republic after San Marco, this basilica is comparable to London's Westminster Abbey, serving as the final resting place for numerous notable individuals, including 25 doges. It also boasts remarkable artistic treasures, including an early polyptych (1465) by Giovanni Bellini, revealing the influence of Mantegna, Alvise Vivarini's "Christ Carrying the Cross" in the sacristy, and Lorenzo Lotto's "Charity of Saint Antonino" in the right transept.
Don't miss the Rosary Chapel ("Cappella del Rosario") off the left transept, constructed in the 16th century to commemorate the 1571 victory of Lepanto, where Venice led a united European fleet against the Turkish Navy. Though damaged by fire in 1867, the chapel has been lovingly restored and now showcases magnificent Veronese ceiling paintings relocated from other churches.
Before you leave, make sure to visit the Pietro Mocenigo tomb on the right side of the main entrance, a masterpiece created by Pietro Lombardo and his sons. Also worth noting is Tullio Lombardo's tomb of Andrea Vendramin, while Tullio's original sculpture "Adam" has undergone recent restoration and now resides in New York City's Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Why You Should Visit:
While not as renowned as some of the churches that require an entrance fee, this hidden gem houses an impressive collection of early Renaissance art within its impeccably maintained interiors. You can marvel at the intricate ceilings adorned by masters like Veronese, discover the masterpieces of Giovanni Bellini, admire the exquisite altars and marble artworks, and much more. Adjacent to the church, you'll find a delightful and peaceful square, with a remarkable pastry shop situated to the right, offering a tempting treat for your senses.
Tip:
Don't forget to inquire with the attendant about borrowing a pictorial guidebook, which will enhance your exploration by providing valuable insights as you wander through the church.
Consecrated in 1430, it belongs to the Dominican order and showcases Bartolomeo Bon's portal, an exquisite blend of Gothic and classical elements incorporating salvaged columns from Torcello. Inside, you'll be mesmerized by the breathtaking 15th-century stained-glass window near the side entrance, crafted in Murano and characterized by vibrant colors and exquisite figures.
As the second official church of the Republic after San Marco, this basilica is comparable to London's Westminster Abbey, serving as the final resting place for numerous notable individuals, including 25 doges. It also boasts remarkable artistic treasures, including an early polyptych (1465) by Giovanni Bellini, revealing the influence of Mantegna, Alvise Vivarini's "Christ Carrying the Cross" in the sacristy, and Lorenzo Lotto's "Charity of Saint Antonino" in the right transept.
Don't miss the Rosary Chapel ("Cappella del Rosario") off the left transept, constructed in the 16th century to commemorate the 1571 victory of Lepanto, where Venice led a united European fleet against the Turkish Navy. Though damaged by fire in 1867, the chapel has been lovingly restored and now showcases magnificent Veronese ceiling paintings relocated from other churches.
Before you leave, make sure to visit the Pietro Mocenigo tomb on the right side of the main entrance, a masterpiece created by Pietro Lombardo and his sons. Also worth noting is Tullio Lombardo's tomb of Andrea Vendramin, while Tullio's original sculpture "Adam" has undergone recent restoration and now resides in New York City's Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Why You Should Visit:
While not as renowned as some of the churches that require an entrance fee, this hidden gem houses an impressive collection of early Renaissance art within its impeccably maintained interiors. You can marvel at the intricate ceilings adorned by masters like Veronese, discover the masterpieces of Giovanni Bellini, admire the exquisite altars and marble artworks, and much more. Adjacent to the church, you'll find a delightful and peaceful square, with a remarkable pastry shop situated to the right, offering a tempting treat for your senses.
Tip:
Don't forget to inquire with the attendant about borrowing a pictorial guidebook, which will enhance your exploration by providing valuable insights as you wander through the church.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Venice. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo (Basilica of Sts. John and Paul) on Map
Sight Name: Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo (Basilica of Sts. John and Paul)
Sight Location: Venice, Italy (See walking tours in Venice)
Sight Type: Religious
Sight Location: Venice, Italy (See walking tours in Venice)
Sight Type: Religious
Walking Tours in Venice, Italy
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