Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 10 September 2023
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The Baroque styled Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is located in the Dorsoduro sestiere of Venice.
Construction of the Basilica started in 1631 and it was finally completed in 1687. The nearest water bus stop is Salute on line 1 while attractions nearby include the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Piazza San Marco and the Gallerie dell'Accademia. |
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The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, commonly known as La Salute, is a grand Roman Catholic church located in Venice, Italy. The basilica was built as a votive offering to the Virgin Mary for delivering Venice from a devastating outbreak of the plague in 1630-1631, which claimed thousands of lives. In gratitude for the city's deliverance, the Venetian Senate vowed to erect a magnificent church dedicated to the Virgin Mary under the title of "Our Lady of Health" or "Salute" in Italian.
The construction of the basilica began in 1631 under the guidance of architect Baldassare Longhena. The building's design is a masterpiece of Venetian Baroque architecture, characterized by its majestic dome, impressive façade, and elegant curves.
Architecture and Design: The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is built on a massive platform of thousands of wooden pilings driven into the marshy ground, a testament to Venetian engineering ingenuity. The central octagonal dome, one of the basilica's most striking features, rises above the church's cross-shaped plan. The dome is crowned by a lantern that is visible from various parts of Venice, making it an iconic symbol of the city's skyline.
The church's façade is adorned with numerous sculptures, columns, and decorative elements, depicting scenes from the Virgin Mary's life and the city's deliverance from the plague. The interior of La Salute is equally impressive, featuring stunning marble altars, intricate chapels, and elaborate Baroque artwork.
Tourist Information: Visiting the Basilica: The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is open to the public and welcomes visitors year-round. However, like many religious sites, it is essential to check the latest information regarding visiting hours and potential closures due to religious services or restoration work.
Dress Code: As a place of worship, visitors are required to dress modestly when entering the basilica. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and mini-skirts may not be allowed inside.
Location: La Salute is situated on the Punta della Dogana, at the entrance to the Grand Canal in Venice. It is easily accessible by water bus (Vaporetto) or on foot from various points in the city.
Views from the Terrace: For a memorable experience, visitors can access the basilica's terrace, offering panoramic views of the Grand Canal, the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Square, and the Venetian Lagoon.
Special Events: The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute holds special religious ceremonies, processions, and festivals throughout the year, with November 21st being the most significant, commemorating the end of the plague and the consecration of the church.
The construction of the basilica began in 1631 under the guidance of architect Baldassare Longhena. The building's design is a masterpiece of Venetian Baroque architecture, characterized by its majestic dome, impressive façade, and elegant curves.
Architecture and Design: The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is built on a massive platform of thousands of wooden pilings driven into the marshy ground, a testament to Venetian engineering ingenuity. The central octagonal dome, one of the basilica's most striking features, rises above the church's cross-shaped plan. The dome is crowned by a lantern that is visible from various parts of Venice, making it an iconic symbol of the city's skyline.
The church's façade is adorned with numerous sculptures, columns, and decorative elements, depicting scenes from the Virgin Mary's life and the city's deliverance from the plague. The interior of La Salute is equally impressive, featuring stunning marble altars, intricate chapels, and elaborate Baroque artwork.
Tourist Information: Visiting the Basilica: The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is open to the public and welcomes visitors year-round. However, like many religious sites, it is essential to check the latest information regarding visiting hours and potential closures due to religious services or restoration work.
Dress Code: As a place of worship, visitors are required to dress modestly when entering the basilica. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and mini-skirts may not be allowed inside.
Location: La Salute is situated on the Punta della Dogana, at the entrance to the Grand Canal in Venice. It is easily accessible by water bus (Vaporetto) or on foot from various points in the city.
Views from the Terrace: For a memorable experience, visitors can access the basilica's terrace, offering panoramic views of the Grand Canal, the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Square, and the Venetian Lagoon.
Special Events: The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute holds special religious ceremonies, processions, and festivals throughout the year, with November 21st being the most significant, commemorating the end of the plague and the consecration of the church.
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Opening-times:
Daily: 09:00 - 12:00 then 15:00 - 17:30 |
Prices:
Entrance: free |
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
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City: Venice
Province: Metropolitan City of Venice Region: Veneto Built: 1631 - 1687 Architectural style: Baroque District/sestiere: Dorsoduro Best water bus/vaporetto stop: Salute - Line 1 Close by: Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Gallerie dell'Accademia Recommended accommodation: Rosa Salva Hotel |
