In this article, I present the Fondaco dei Tedeschi of Venice, a grandiose building to be discovered in the city!
Here you'll find
- A presentation by Fondaco dei Tedeschi
- What you can see on the tour
- How to get to this building
- Practical information: prices, opening hours, reservations
- And much more!
If you're looking for information on Venice's Fondaco dei Tedeschi, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Fondaco dei tedeschi: article summary
Fondaco dei Tedeschi, Venice's German counter
Visit Fondaco dei tedeschi - called Comptoir des Allemands in French or Fòntego dei Todeschi in Venetian dialect - is one of Venice's most recognizable buildings, with its atypical architectural style.
While it's not necessarily a must-see when you're travelling short break in Veniceyou're sure to come out ahead. And its past makes it a point of particular interest for history buffs, while its current function will delight shopping enthusiasts.
Let me tell you more!
A brief history of Fondaco dei Tedeschi
As early as the 13th century, merchants from Germany (but also from other northern European countries, included in the name Germans) were numerous in Venice, seeking spices and dyes for wool. To accommodate them, this building was chosen, and soon named Fondacoa term derived from the Arabic word Funduq used to designate a shop/inn.
Upstairs, over 200 rooms The first floor was used for storage and warehousing.
At that time, the German was one of the largest in the Serenissima, and so it was only natural that this building, located just a stone's throw from the Rialto Bridge on the Grand Canalwas attributed to him.
In 1505, a huge fire ravaged the Fondaco dei Tedeschi, which was reduced to ashes. The palace was rebuilt in 1508, larger and more imposing, to showcase both its trade with the German community and its artistic and cultural aspects. For the decoration, the Doges called on two renowned artists Titian and Giorgione, who painted frescoes on the façade.
When the Republic of Venice disappeared in 1797, with the arrival of Napoleon, the commercial character of the place was suppressed and the fondaco dei tedeschi will become in turn Customs headquarters to be used as a headquarters for La Poste of Venice.
He will lose this position in 2016, to become the luxury shopping mall you can visit today!
What to see and do in Fondaco dei Tedeschi?
While some visitors may be content to admire its superb facade, preferring to focus on the major places of interest in VeniceIf you're curious, you can venture inside and enjoy the activities on offer.
Shopping in luxury boutiques
The building was acquired by the Benetton familywho has turned it into a shopping center featuring only luxury brands. You can browse the stalls and, if your wallet allows, treat yourself to Gucci, Valentino or Bottega Veneta products.
Discover local crafts and products
If fashion isn't your thing, you'll also find delicatessen storeswith top-quality Italian/Venetian products. If you haven't found what you're looking for in the Venice supermarketsYou may find it here.
A restaurant gourmet restaurant (Amo Venezia, 3 stars), headed by chef Massimo Alajmo (born in Padua), allows you to enjoy succulent preparations, including three types of pizza (baked, steamed, crispy) for a unique culinary experience.
Admire the view from the terrace
For lovers of breathtaking views, Venice offers several interesting viewpoints the summit of the Campanilethe Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo and the panoramic terrace of the Fondaco dei tedeschi!
The tour is free of chargebut you absolutely must reserve it (on the www.tfondaco.com)or via the automatic terminal on the first floor).
You won't be able to stay than 15 minutes on this one. Enough time to feast your eyes and take some splendid photos of Venice!
How to join Fondaco dei Tedeschi
Fondaco dei Tedeschi is located at the following address: Calle del Fontego dei Tedeschi, 30100 Venice
It's easy to join: just :
- Take a walk along the Grand Canal in the San Polo district
- Visit Vaporettoget off at the Rialto stop
- Visit boat Taxi from your hotel or your home
Good to know If you need to take the vaporetto, I remind you that there are a Vaporetto Pass very practical, for unlimited use of this means of transport.
Fondaco dei Tedeschi: Rates, reservations, opening hours, practical information
Here's what you need to know before visiting the Comptoir des Allemands in Venice.
Rates and booking
A visit to the Fondaco dei Tedeschi is an absolute must. free of charge.
As mentioned above, you will need to book your visit to Rooftop. Either online, or by requesting a ticket on site. An automatic terminal allows you to receive an electronic ticket for your chosen date and time.
Opening hours
The Fondaco dei Tedeschi is open:
- From 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. between October and March
- 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. April to September
Practical information
At the top of the building, you may be lucky enough to come across a cultural exhibitionregularly organized here.
In the inner courtyard, don't miss le Vieux Puit !
What to see and do in the area?
The Fondaco dei Tedeschi is located in the heart of downtownThere's plenty to see and do in the surrounding area. Here are some of my suggestions!
- The unmissable Rialto Bridge and the Rialto market neighbor
- The Aqua Alta bookshop, a unusual tour of Venice !
- Church of San Giacomo on the Rialtoan 11th-century Gothic church with a superb clock
Consult my interactive map of Venice to find out the best activities to do in the neighborhood!
What to do in Venice in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
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