Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
biggestpalaces—withthemajorshippingneeds—linethislaststretchofthenavigableGrand
Canal.
Palaces like these were multi-functional: ground floor for the warehouse, offices and
showroomsupstairs,andthelivingquartersabovetheofficesonthe“noblefloors”(withbig
windows designed to allow in maximum light). Servants lived and worked on the top floors
(with the smallest windows). For fire-safety reasons, the kitchens were also located on the
top floors. Peek into the noble floors to catch a glimpse of their still-glorious chandeliers of
Murano glass.
Sant'Angelo:
Notice how many buildings have a foundation of waterproof white stone
(pietra d'Istria)
upon which the bricks sit high and dry. Many canal-level floors are aban-
doned as the rising water level takes its toll. The
posts
—historically painted gaily with the
equivalent of family coats of arms—don't rot underwater. But the wood at the waterline,
where it's exposed to oxygen, does. On the smallest canals, little blue gondola signs indicate
that these docks are for gondolas only (no taxis or motorboats).
▲▲▲
▲▲▲
▲▲▲
St
.
Mark's Basilica
Cathedral with mosaics, saint's bones, treasury, museum,
and viewpoint of square.
Hours:
Mon-Sat 9:45-17:00, Sun 14:00-17:00 (until 16:00
▲▲▲
▲▲▲
Doge's Palace
Art-splashed palace of former rulers, with prison accessible
throughBridgeofSighs.
Hours:
DailyApril-Oct8:30-18:30,Nov-March8:00-17:30.
▲▲▲
▲▲▲
Rialto Bridge
Distinctive bridge spanning the Grand Canal, with a market
nearby.
Hours:
Bridge—always open; market—souvenir stalls open daily, produce
▲▲▲
Correr Museum
Venetian history and art.
Hours:
Daily April-Oct 10:00-19:00,
