Venice Churches

Chiesa di San Polo is one of those Venice churches you just can't miss. The fascinating exterior tells you about the history of the city. The interior lures you with masterpieces by painters like Tintoretto, Veronese, and Tiepolo. 

Getting to the church

Chiesa di San Polo has an excellent location on the Venice map. San Polo lies between Dorsoduro and San Marco and is one of the busiest parts of Venice. The church stands on Campo San Polo, one of the largest and oldest squares in the city. Like almost any of the Venice churches, you can arrive here by vaporetto. The station of S. Silvestro is only five minutes away. 

History & architecture

Chiesa di San Polo is a true landmark on the Venice map, full of history and incredible art. The current Catholic church dates back to the 15th century. Yet, the original emerged in 837 thanks to the two Venetian doges. After a major 1804 restoration by Davide Rossi, San Polo was of neoclassical style with Gothic elements. The south doorway by the Bon workshop or the ship's keel-styled roof is impressive. The exterior of the church has a statue of the apostle Paul. The 26-meter bell tower stands a few meters from San Polo and dates back to 1362. At the doorway of the tower, you'll notice two carved lions. They represent significant events in Venice's history. 

Inside the church

The interior of Chiesa di San Polo is dark and mysterious, full of fascinating art. During your stroll in the church, you can enjoy works by the most notable Italian painters. The most famous artwork is the Last Supper by Jacopo Tintoretto. The other noteworthy piece is the Marriage of the Virgin by Paolo Veronese. In addition, there are 14 Stations of the Cross and the Glory of Angels and Resurrection by Giandomenico Tiepolo. Giambattista Tiepolo also left his imprint on the church with his famous Virgin appearing to San Giovanni Nepomuk. Yet the art doesn't end here. Enjoy the beauty of Paolo Piazza and Palma il Giovane's canvases and a frescoed dome by Gioacchino Pozzoli. And remember to check out two bronze statues by Alessandro Vittoria. 

Things to do in the area

This part of the Venice map is quite popular and features some of the best of Venice. Less than 10 minutes from Chiesa di San Polo is the iconic Rialto Bridge. Nearby is also one of the grandest Venice churches - Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari. And if you want to see some fantastic Venice museums, this area is perfect. In addition to the Ca' Pesaro Gallery and the Oriental Art Museum, you can explore the gorgeous Palazzo Mocenigo.