Venice Palazzi – Once the Palatial Homes of aristocrats, officials and the Rich:
Along Venice’s Grand Canal are many grand buildings and palazzi which represent some of the finest architecture of Venice. Many of these buildings were once the palatial homes of aristocrats, city officials or family homes of rich merchants.
Some of these palazzi were built to show off the wealth and power of the owners and the fronts of the buildings had beautiful frescoes that were intended to impress. A ride down the Grand Canal in the past was like viewing a parade of palaces whose owners were the who’s who of society during that time.
Many of these grand buildings have been converted into luxurious hotels, whilst others now serve as art galleries, upmarket shops and concert and opera venues.
If you’d like to experience a famous opera or a classical concert performance in a Venice palazzo, the following are regular venues.
Opera in a Venice Palazzo |
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Palazzo Barbarigo-Minotto
Palazzo Barbarigo-Minotto is a splendid noble 17th century palazzo facing the Grand Canal. The works of famous artists like G.B.Tiepolo, Fontebasso, Mingozzi, Carpoforo, Mazzetti and Tencalla have graced the walls and ceilings of this palazzo. |
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Palazzo delle Prigioni
The Palazzo delle Prigioni (Prisons’ Palace) is linked to Palazzo Ducale via the world famous Bridge of Sighs. The function of this palace was to partially integrate the prisons of Palazzo Ducale. With its beautiful rooms overlooking Riva degli Schiavoni and onto San Marco, Palazzo delle Prigioni has become a centre for cultural events. |
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Palazzetto Bru Zane
This palazzo is home to the Centre de Musique Romantique Francaise. Inaugurated in 2009, it is dedicated to the rediscovery and international promotion of French musical heritage of the 19th century. |
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