Scuola Grande di San Rocco
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Latest update: 23 January 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a museum and art gallery, situated in the San Polo sestiere of Venice. Established in 1478, it's particularly famous for its collection of work by the Venetian artist Tintoretto, famed for his Mannerist style of the late Renaissance.
You can reach the museum on foot in around three minutes from the San Tomà vaporetto/water bus stop on the Grand Canal. |
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The Scuola Grande di San Rocco, often referred to simply as "San Rocco," is a prestigious confraternity building and a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture in Venice, Italy. It was founded in the early 16th century by a group of Venetian citizens to honor and venerate Saint Roch, the patron saint of plague victims.
The original Scuola building was completed in 1517, but it was later expanded and embellished to its current grandeur in the mid-16th century. The architectural design is attributed to several architects, including Bartolomeo Bon, who worked on the facade, and Sante Lombardo, who contributed to the interior.
The original Scuola building was completed in 1517, but it was later expanded and embellished to its current grandeur in the mid-16th century. The architectural design is attributed to several architects, including Bartolomeo Bon, who worked on the facade, and Sante Lombardo, who contributed to the interior.
Architecture
The Scuola Grande di San Rocco features a beautiful blend of Venetian Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its facade is adorned with statues, bas-reliefs, and decorative elements, reflecting the wealth and prestige of the confraternity. Above the main entrance, visitors can see a statue of Saint Roch with his faithful dog, symbolizing his role as the protector against the plague.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Scuola is its extensive interior decoration, which showcases the artistic genius of the Venetian painter Tintoretto. Tintoretto and his workshop were commissioned to create an impressive cycle of paintings covering the walls and ceilings of the building. These magnificent artworks depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, creating a visually captivating and spiritually moving experience for visitors.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Scuola is its extensive interior decoration, which showcases the artistic genius of the Venetian painter Tintoretto. Tintoretto and his workshop were commissioned to create an impressive cycle of paintings covering the walls and ceilings of the building. These magnificent artworks depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, creating a visually captivating and spiritually moving experience for visitors.
Visitor information
- Visiting the Scuola Grande di San Rocco: The Scuola is open to the public, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its artistic and architectural splendor.
- Location: The Scuola is situated in the San Polo sestiere (district) of Venice, not far from the famous Rialto Bridge. It can be reached on foot or by vaporetto (water bus) from various locations in Venice.
- Tintoretto's Masterpieces: The highlight of a visit to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco is undoubtedly the opportunity to admire Tintoretto's masterpieces. His paintings cover the walls and ceilings of the Sala dell'Albergo (Hall of the Albergo) and the Sala Superiore (Upper Hall), creating a mesmerizing display of artistry and emotion.
- Visiting Tips: The Scuola can be quite busy with visitors, so it is advisable to arrive early or check for any guided tours that may offer a more in-depth exploration of the artworks and history.
- Cultural Events: The Scuola occasionally hosts cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions, adding to the vibrant cultural scene of Venice.
- Souvenir Shop: The Scuola may have a small souvenir shop where visitors can purchase postcards, books, and other memorabilia related to the building and its artworks.
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
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City: Venice
Province: Metropolitan City of Venice Region: Veneto Founded: 1478 Architects: Sante Lombardo, Pietro Bon Architectural style: Renaissance District/sestiere: San Polo Close by: Venice Santa Lucia Train Station, Venice Grand Canal Best water bus/vaporetto stop: San Tomà - Lines 1, 2 and N Fly to: Venice Marco Polo Airport Recommended accommodation: Rosa Salva Hotel |
