The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is one of the most photographed churches in the world. It stands prominently at the entrance to the Grand Canal in the Dorsoduro district and was built as a token of gratitude for the end of the plague of 1630.
Why You Should Visit Them
Baldassare Longhena's architecture is technically impressive: the massive dome rests on over a million wooden piles that were driven into the ground. Inside, you'll find a bright, octagonal space that captivates with its vastness and ornate marble floors.
Important Information for Your Visit
- Architecture: A masterpiece of Venetian Baroque architecture with a striking domed silhouette.
- Art Treasures: The sacristy houses important paintings by Titian and the famous work „The Wedding at Cana“ by Tintoretto.
- Atmosphere: Despite its prominent location, it is often surprisingly quiet inside, as many tourists only take pictures of the church from the outside.
Practical Information
- Directions: Vaporetto Line 1, bus stop Salute. The church is right next to the station.
- Accessibility: There are a few steps leading up to the church. However, there is a side entrance that is accessible to wheelchair users or people using walking aids (please ask a staff member).
- Admission: The main hall of the basilica is free Open to the public. A small fee is charged to visit the sacristy (which houses the Titian paintings).
- Hours: Usually daily from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Times may vary during church services).
- General information about dress codes, photography, and accessibility in Venetian churches can be found in our Church Guide/FAQ.
Tip for Seniors
Salute is an ideal starting or ending point for an accessible walk along the Zattere. The path from the Salute along the waterfront to Punta della Dogana offers a fantastic, unobstructed view of the water and St. Mark's Square, without the usual crowds on the St. Mark's side.
Just like the Il Redentore Church, the Salute was built as a vow to God for deliverance from the plague.
Churches at a Glance
- An Overview of All Churches
- In the heart of the city: St. Mark's Basilica
- San Vidal – Where Architecture Meets Vivaldi
- San Giorgio Maggiore – The Island of Tranquility and Views
- Santa Maria della Salute – The Baroque Landmark
- Il Redentore – The Church of the Redeemer on Giudecca
- San Polo – A Gothic Gem on the Main Square
- Santi Giovanni e Paolo – The Burial Place of the Doges
- Santa Maria dei Miracoli – Venice's Marble Gem
- Basilica dei Frari – A Masterpiece of Venetian Gothic Architecture
- Santa Maria di Nazareth – The Magnificent Gateway to Venice
- San Giacomo di Rialto: The Cradle of Venice