San Francesco della Vigna Bell Tower
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Latest page update: 11 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Rising 69 metres high, San Francesco della Vigna Bell Tower is one of the tallest structures in Venice and was modelled on the more illustrious Saint Mark's Bell Tower in nearby Piazza San Marco.
The existing bell tower was completed in 1581 and replaced the original which was badly damaged by lightning and subsequently demolished in 1489. |
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The Chiesa di San Francesco della Vigna to which the campanile belongs, is located within the Castello sestiere of Venice, close to the Celestia ferry stop. Within the same complex of the church and the bell tower are two beautiful garden cloisters.
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The San Francesco della Vigna Bell Tower, also known as Campanile di San Francesco della Vigna, is a prominent bell tower located in the San Francesco della Vigna church complex in Venice, Italy. The church, dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, was founded in the early 16th century, and its bell tower was constructed shortly afterward.
The bell tower was designed by the renowned Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio and completed in 1566. Andrea Palladio was known for his influential architectural style, characterized by symmetry, classicism, and harmony, and his work had a profound impact on Venetian architecture.
The bell tower was designed by the renowned Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio and completed in 1566. Andrea Palladio was known for his influential architectural style, characterized by symmetry, classicism, and harmony, and his work had a profound impact on Venetian architecture.
Architecture
The San Francesco della Vigna Bell Tower is an excellent example of Palladian architecture and stands at an impressive height of about 75 meters (246 feet). Its elegant and harmonious design reflects Palladio's skill in balancing aesthetics and structural stability.
The tower features three levels of Doric columns, an architectural element often used by Palladio, creating a sense of classical grandeur. At the top of the tower, visitors can see the four-sided clock faces and the decorative balustrade. The bell tower's pyramidal spire, adorned with a gilded cross, adds to its allure.
The tower features three levels of Doric columns, an architectural element often used by Palladio, creating a sense of classical grandeur. At the top of the tower, visitors can see the four-sided clock faces and the decorative balustrade. The bell tower's pyramidal spire, adorned with a gilded cross, adds to its allure.
Visitor information
- Visiting the Bell Tower: The San Francesco della Vigna Bell Tower is accessible to the public, providing an opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of Venice from its top.
- Location: The bell tower is located in the Castello district of Venice, near the San Francesco della Vigna church. It can be reached by foot or by vaporetto (water bus) from various locations in Venice.
- Climbing the Bell Tower: To reach the top of the bell tower, visitors must climb a series of steps. The ascent can be a bit challenging, but the reward is well worth it as it offers breathtaking views of the city's rooftops, canals, and landmarks.
- Panoramic Views: From the top of the San Francesco della Vigna Bell Tower, visitors can admire stunning vistas of Venice, including St. Mark's Square, the Venetian Lagoon, the Grand Canal, and many other iconic sites.
- Ticket Information: As of my last update in September 2021, there was a small entrance fee to access the bell tower. However, prices and ticketing information may be subject to change, so it is advisable to check the latest details before planning your visit.
Campanile di San Francesco della Vigna
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Category: Towers of Italy
City: Venice Province: Metropolitan City of Venice Region: Veneto Height: 69 metres Completed: 1581 Architectural styles: Gothic, Renaissance District/sestiere: Castello Best water bus/vaporetto stop: Celestia Fly to: Venice Marco Polo Airport Close by: Piazza San Marco, Basilica di San Marco Recommended accommodation: Rosa Salva Hotel |
