Venice hidden gems: the small churches

The tour focuses on the visit of some small churches located between St Mark’s and Castello districts (called sestieri in Venetian dialect). Even if  less well known than the Frari Church or St Mark’s Basilica, these santuaries represent real art caskets and are an example of the city cultural vitality. As a matter of fact, a large part of these small churches were built, restored or decorated thanks to private funding and donations. This tour is an alternative to classic itineraries and a way to see more intimate and less tourist places.

Great masters in small churches

The works of art treasured in these small churches are by famous artists admired in popular museums all over the world, like Titian, Bellini and Tiepolo. On this tour we have the opportunity to see them in their original place, commissioned from noble families, middle-class citizens and foresti, i. e. foreigners who traded and lived in Venice.

Practical information

During this walking tour we’ll see some of the following churches: San Giacometto, St Apostles, the Gesuits, St Maria Formosa (3 Eur, closed on Sun), St Maria dei Miracoli (3 Eur, closed on Sun), St John Grisostomo, San Salvador, St Julian. Since some of these churches are still active, they could be closed for services even during visiting hours.
Time: this tour can be arranged everyday.
Meeting point: Campo San Giacomo di Rialto by the fountain.
Tour duration: 3 hours. The visit of these small churches will be restricted to a selection of artworks. Some of them will be visited just from outside.
Level of difficulty: low. The tour develops in a relatively small part of the city centre. We suggest to wear comfortable shoes and a hat in warm days.
The cultural nature of the tour is the chance for a professional guide, to show her  insight into religious art.