Chiesa di Sant'Eustachio (Church of St. Eustace), Venice

Established in the 11th century, but later rebuilt and adorned with a new facade in the 17th century, Sant'Eustachio, also known as San Stae, underwent a comprehensive restoration in 1977-78. While it may appear comparatively modest in size when compared to other churches in Venice, its prime location alongside the Grand Canal and the San Stae vaporetto stop makes it stand out.

The edifice showcases a sculpted Baroque facade adorned with numerous statues and columns, lending it an air of mystery. Inside, instead of extravagant adornments, visitors will discover a collection of paintings beautifully exhibited against the backdrop of pristine white walls. Noteworthy works include Tiepolo's "The Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew", Pittoni's "Torture of Saint Thomas", Sebastiano Ricci's "The Liberation of Saint Peter", and many others. Ample windows allow natural light to flood the interior, illuminating the exquisite artwork.

Located near the second altar on the left, you will find a bust of Antonio Foscarini, a Venetian nobleman whose fate took a dramatic twist in 1622. Sentenced to death for high treason by the Council of Ten (a secretive council responsible for maintaining political stability), he was executed. However, just ten months later, the same council reversed its decision, posthumously exonerating Foscarini and officially notifying European courts of the annulment of his guilty verdict and death sentence. This extraordinary turn of events continues to shroud Foscarini's involvement in a perplexing tale of Venetian political intrigue.