The Basilica was built to thank the Virgin Mary for protecting the city during the plague epidemic of 1630-1631, which claimed the lives of almost a third of Venice's population. The Senate decided to build a monumental church that would be a symbol of faith and renewal. Since then, every year on November 21, the Feast of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, known as the Festa della Madonna della Salute, has been celebrated. it is the city's official procession that leads from St. Mark's Basilica to the church of La Salute and symbolizes the expression of thanks for the deliverance of the city from the plague. The procession took the Grand Canal over a specially built pontoon bridge and is still a major event in Venice today.
The construction of the basilica was entrusted to the young architect Baldassare Longhena, who created a masterpiece of Venetian Baroque. Construction began in 1631 and lasted approximately 50 years.
The basilica is built on the plan of an octagon (symbolizing the eight beatitudes), with two picturesque bell towers located at the back. The dominant feature is the massive central dome, which is mirrored on the surface of the Grand Canal. The façade is decorated with statues and reliefs celebrating the Virgin Mary. The church is built on a platform made of 1,000,000 wooden stakes!
Inside you will find a spacious and bright interior, decorated with marble and mosaics. The main altar, designed by Longhena, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and contains the famous Madonna della Salute painting.
The dome is not only an architectural marvel, but also a symbol of protection and hope that can be seen from many places in Venice.
Practical information
-
Admission:
Entrance to the main part of the basilica is free, but entry to the sacristy, where the art treasures are, usually costs around €4. -
Opening hours:
The basilica is open daily, usually from 9am to 12pm and then from 3pm to 5:30pm. The entrance to the sacristy has separate opening hours. -
Accessibility:
Santa Maria della Salute is located right next to the vaporetto Salute stop, reached by public transport lines on the Grand Canal.
If you want a truly unique experience, visit the basilica at sunset, when its white marble is beautifully coloured with golden tones. Or take part in the Festa della Salute if you visit Venice in November. It's an authentic experience where you can experience the procession.
Santa Maria della Salute is not only an architectural gem, but also an important spiritual symbol of Venice. Visiting it offers not only a glimpse into the city's history, but also the opportunity to admire a unique work of art in the heart of one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
