Santa Maria della Salute is a historic Roman Catholic church located in Venice, Italy. Built in the Baroque style, it stands at a prominent position at the entrance to the Grand Canal and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
The church was constructed as an offering to the Virgin Mary for the city's deliverance from a devastating outbreak of the plague in 1630. The Senate of Venice vowed to build a church in her honor if the plague ended, and Santa Maria della Salute was the result of that promise.
The church was designed by the Italian architect Baldassare Longhena. Construction began in 1631 and it was consecrated in 1681, taking 50 years to complete.
Santa Maria della Salute is built in the Baroque architectural style, which is characterized by grandeur, dramatic use of light, and the integration of architecture, painting, and sculpture.
Yes, tourists can visit Santa Maria della Salute. The church is a major attraction in Venice and visitors can explore its impressive architecture, art, and the views it offers of the Grand Canal.
Typically, there is no admission fee to enter the church itself, but there may be a fee to access certain areas or to view specific artworks or exhibitions within the building.
The opening hours of the Santa Maria della Salute can vary, but it is generally open from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm every day. Visitors are advised to check the latest timings before planning their visit as times can change due to religious services or special events.
Notable features include the church's vast dome, its richly decorated interior, and artworks such as the altarpiece 'The Marriage at Cana' by Tintoretto, as well as numerous paintings and sculptures by other prominent artists.
Each year on November 21st, the Festa della Madonna della Salute is held in Venice, during which pilgrims visit the church to light candles and pray to the Virgin Mary as a commemoration of the city's deliverance from the plague. The festival is accompanied by a temporary pontoon bridge that crosses the Grand Canal, allowing easier access to the church.
The church is easily accessible by vaporetto (water bus) with the nearest stop being
Beaches (1)
Religious Places (1)
Historical Places (74)
Museums (28)
Villages (1)
Island (4)
Gardens (3)
