In this article, I present Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo and its incredible spiral staircase.
Here you'll find
- The history and special features of this place
- The ticket price and what it includes
- How to reach the palace easily
- What you can see and do in the area
- And much more!
If you're looking for information about Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo: article summary
Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, a Renaissance masterpiece
The Palace Contarini del Bovolo is a veritable Venetian gem, dating back to the 14th century. It was acquired by the wealthy Contarini family for its proximity to the Place Saint Marcthen the seat of Venetian power.
Slightly located off the beaten trackThis palace is a little marvel, blending Renaissance art with Gothic and Venetian-Byzantine styles. And its most famous feature is none other than the its spiral staircasebuilt in 1499 outside the palace by the architect Giovanni Candi.
This staircase measures 26 metres high and its structure is reminiscent of a snail's shell, giving it its name in the Venetian dialect, Bovolo means snail. In fact, following the construction of this impressive tower, the Contarini family was given the suffix Dal Bovoloin relation to the building.
For its construction, the client would have been inspired by the tower of Pisa as well as various works by the Florentine Renaissance. It's a real treasure, sometimes forgotten by visitors, but well worth the detour. As you ascend, you'll see Venice right under your feet, with the following highlights a breathtaking view of the Serenissima.
For the record, it seems that one of the tenants of the Palais Contarini del Bovolo, Arnoldo Marseille says Il Maltese, Hugo Pratt's primary inspiration for the creation of his illustrious character Corto Maltese !
From the snail-shaped staircase to the little wonders hidden in the palace, a visit to this monument should leave you breathless. Here's what you can see!
What does a visit to Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo include?
During your stay in VeniceIt would be a shame to miss out on this little architectural marvel, tucked away in the heart of the city. the maze of Venetian streets. With this ticket, you will take part in a tour including :
- 30-minute discovery tour of the Del Bovolo staircasewith a climb to the summit offering one of the finest views of Venice.
- Access to the interior of the Palace to discover the Tintoretto roomwhich includes a marvel: a preparatory version of the painting Le Paradis by Tintoretto, the final version of which is exhibited in the Doge's Palace
- Access to the Oratorio dei Crociferi (currently closed), just a few minutes from the Palazzo. This small museum houses major works by Venetian Mannerist painter Jacopo Palma the Younger.
Climbing the palace's staircase is an unforgettable experience. a fun activitya delight for young and old alike. And lovers of art and architecture will be enthralled by the beauty of the works on display.
If you wish to think outside the boxand discover Venice from a whole new angle, I can't recommend this visit enough!
How to reach Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo easily?
Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is located at the following address: Corte dei Risi OU del Bovolo, San Marco, 4303 Venice
For easy access, you can use :
- Vaporetto Line 1, Rialto A stop
- Vaporetto Line 2, Rialto C stop
Good to know If you're planning to use public transport in Venice, take a look at this guide. Vaporetto Pass very comprehensive.
Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo: prices, reservations, opening hours, practical information
Here's what you need to know about this superb palace before your visit.
Rates and booking
- Normal ticket: 9 euros
- Reduced-rate ticket (students aged 12-26/over 65): 7.20 euros
- Free for children under 12
Reservations are mandatory and can be made online. You'll receive immediate confirmation on your mobile devices, and simply present your mobile ticket at the entrance.
Opening hours
The Palais is open daily from 10am to 6pm. For your visit, you can select one of the following time slots: 11:30 a.m. or 3 p.m.
Useful info
Bring good shoes, there are 80 steps to climb!
What to see and do in the area?
The Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is set in a convoluted alleyway, but is nonetheless the perfect place to relax. in the heart of Venice. So you'll have plenty of choice for your next visits. Here are a few suggestions within walking distance:
- Discover the superb St. Mark's Basilica7-minute walk from the palace
- Visit the Doge's Palace to see the original Paradise by Tintoretto, the secret prison or the famous Bridge of Sighs
- Admire the Venice Feniceone of Italy's most beautiful operas with a fascinating history
What to do in Venice in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Venice guide.
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