San Giorgio Maggiore
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 10 September 2023
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The island of San Giorgio Maggiore offers one of the most evocative and iconic spectacles in the Venice Lagoon. It's situated directly across the water from the Doge's Palace but known for its own masterful architectural treats.
Taking pride of place on the tiny island is the Chiesa di San Giorgio Maggiore, designed by the famous Italian architect Andrea Palladio in 1565 and finally completed in 1610. The diminutive island is also home to a monastery and a tiny harbour while it's also possible to climb the bell tower for some memorable views. |
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San Giorgio Maggiore is a stunning island located in the Venetian Lagoon, just a short boat ride from the main island of Venice, Italy. The island is home to the San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica, a prominent church that stands as a symbol of Venetian Renaissance architecture and artistic excellence.
The basilica's construction began in 1566 under the guidance of renowned architect Andrea Palladio, known for his mastery of classical architecture. However, Palladio's original design was not entirely completed during his lifetime. After his death, other architects continued the work, ensuring that Palladio's vision for the basilica was realized.
Architectural Features: The San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica is a prime example of Palladian architecture, characterized by its simplicity, harmonious proportions, and classical elements. The facade features a series of engaged columns, pilasters, and pediments, creating an elegant and symmetrical appearance.
The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, with a single nave and a beautiful dome. The church's design allows natural light to filter through, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere inside.
Tourist Information: Visiting the Basilica: San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica is open to the public, offering visitors an opportunity to explore its architectural beauty and artistic treasures.
Location: The island of San Giorgio Maggiore can be easily reached by vaporetto (water bus) from various points in Venice, such as St. Mark's Square.
Climbing the Bell Tower: One of the highlights of visiting San Giorgio Maggiore is ascending the bell tower for breathtaking views of Venice. The bell tower, also designed by Palladio, stands adjacent to the basilica and offers panoramic vistas of the city, including St. Mark's Square and the Venetian Lagoon.
Island Garden and Art Exhibitions: In addition to the basilica and bell tower, the island of San Giorgio Maggiore also features a beautiful garden, ideal for leisurely strolls and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The island occasionally hosts art exhibitions and cultural events that add to the island's allure.
Concerts and Events: The basilica often hosts concerts featuring classical music, taking advantage of its remarkable acoustics and creating a memorable experience for visitors.
The basilica's construction began in 1566 under the guidance of renowned architect Andrea Palladio, known for his mastery of classical architecture. However, Palladio's original design was not entirely completed during his lifetime. After his death, other architects continued the work, ensuring that Palladio's vision for the basilica was realized.
Architectural Features: The San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica is a prime example of Palladian architecture, characterized by its simplicity, harmonious proportions, and classical elements. The facade features a series of engaged columns, pilasters, and pediments, creating an elegant and symmetrical appearance.
The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, with a single nave and a beautiful dome. The church's design allows natural light to filter through, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere inside.
Tourist Information: Visiting the Basilica: San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica is open to the public, offering visitors an opportunity to explore its architectural beauty and artistic treasures.
Location: The island of San Giorgio Maggiore can be easily reached by vaporetto (water bus) from various points in Venice, such as St. Mark's Square.
Climbing the Bell Tower: One of the highlights of visiting San Giorgio Maggiore is ascending the bell tower for breathtaking views of Venice. The bell tower, also designed by Palladio, stands adjacent to the basilica and offers panoramic vistas of the city, including St. Mark's Square and the Venetian Lagoon.
Island Garden and Art Exhibitions: In addition to the basilica and bell tower, the island of San Giorgio Maggiore also features a beautiful garden, ideal for leisurely strolls and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The island occasionally hosts art exhibitions and cultural events that add to the island's allure.
Concerts and Events: The basilica often hosts concerts featuring classical music, taking advantage of its remarkable acoustics and creating a memorable experience for visitors.
San Giorgio Maggiore
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City: Venice
Province: Metropolitan City of Venice Region: Veneto Completed: 1610 Architect: Andrea Palladio Architectural style: Renaissance District/sestiere: San Marco Close by: Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, Doge's Palace Best water bus/vaporetto stop: San Giorgio - Lines 2 and N Recommended accommodation: Rosa Salva Hotel |
