Church of San Giorgio
Maggiore
The Church of San Giorgio Maggiore is a basilica, situated on the island with the same name in the Venetian lagoon. The Roman Catholic temple boasts outstanding architectural appeal. It was designed by Andrea Palladio, the most recognised Italian architect, in 1566 and was finished
soon after his death in 1580. The first religious building at this site was constructed much earlier before this – in the 8th Century. In 982 the whole island was a Benedictine property and the monks established a monastery.
The present facade was created in 1610 and about two centuries later the bell tower was rebuilt. The most characteristic element of the exterior is the central entrance with the statues of St George and St Stephan on both its sides. The interior features some impressive works of art by renowned masters like Tintoretto, Bassano, Palma il Giovane
and the most famous painting 'Madonna in Throne with Saints' by Sebastiano Ricci. Nowadays, the church, still run by the Benedictines, forms an essential part of the famed view from Piazzetta towards the lagoon of Venice and is a favourite motif for photographers.
Name: Church of San Giorgio
Maggiore
Address: Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore
Phone: +39 41 522 78 27
see map
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