The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute in Dorsoduro, Venice on a sunny day with tourists sitting nearby. The lovely curvy shape of Santa Maria del
The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute in Dorsoduro, Venice on a sunny day with tourists sitting nearby. The lovely curvy shape of Santa Maria della Salute is one of Venice’s most pictured landmarks. It stands on the final stretch of the Grand Canal, over the water from St. Mark’s. Santa Maria della Salute was built 1631-1681 and dedicated to the Madonna in gratitude for the end of an outbreak of plague (the name means St. Mary of the Health). A contest was held to design the church, which was won by Baldassare Longhena, then in his twenties or early thirties. The church was an unusual shape at the time and is still striking today; taking the form of an octagon under a massive central dome. Once a year on the 21st November special masses are held to remember the city’s deliverance from plague, and a temporary votive bridge is erected over the Grand Canal. The celebration is one of the most heart-felt in Venice, and is called the Festa della Salute. The exterior is a glorious confection in white: its fanciness not overpowering but suiting the location. The large stone scrolls buttressing the dome were an inspired touch. Inside, six side-chapels and the high altar open off the main space. The small side chapels contain paintings by Luca Giordano and one by Titian. The most interesting feature of the interior though, is its design and dramatic spaces.
Size: 6924px × 6924px
Location: Venice, Italy
Photo credit: © Brian Gavin / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: Yes
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