The collection of the Academia has been gathered lovingly for centuries. Its first exhibits were acquired from churches, as so-called "liberated" art objects from convents and churches that were supressed in the city. Religious and mundane art had changed the site of preservation and exhibition until 1807, when the present Galleria dell'Academia was founded by Napoleon. The collection was first hosted in a church, then in a convent until it took over its present site. The 24 rooms of the gallery intend a chronoligical presentation of about 5 centuries of artistic history. Starting from the 13th Century and ending with the 18th, it presents the largest collection of Venetian masters in the world. You'll find Paolo and Lorenzo Veneziano from the 14th Century, Carpaccio from the 15th, Titian from the 16th, Canaletto, Tiepolo and Longhi from the 17th and the 18th, among many others. The gallery also presents a large collection of religious art, which was collected from churches and convents in troubled times. As the history of Venice had a close relationship with the destiny of Byzantium, remarkabke examples of Byzantian art also make up a part of the rich collections of the Academia. Being one of the most impressive art galleries in the world, the Academia has all the advantages and disadvantages such a merit can cause -- tickets should be booked in advance in order to avoid the crowds and queues. Visitors must also keep in mind that admission is limited due to fire safety requirements. Walking to the gallery is recommended, as this way you'll prepare to see Venice in paintings by meeting its fascinating image live. The way to the Academia passes along a wooden bridge built by the Austrians for their troops. It reaches the bug curve of the Canale Grande, and this is where the gallery is located, right at one of the most beautiful panoramas in town.