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Discovering the Grand Canal of Venice: a journey through time and beauty

One of the most important elements that help create the beauty of the city of Venice, Canal Grande, anciently called “Canalasso”, is the main water-traffic corridor in the city, going from the Santa Lucia railway station and ending in the basin at San Marco.

If you are planning a visit to Venice this article is very helpful to know some more about the Grand Canal of Venice and the majestic palaces surrounding it.

The majestic Palaces alongside the Grand Canal of Venice

Canal Grande is surrounded by buildings that go from the XIII century to the XVIII century that used to belong to some of the most important families of merchants in the city. Because of the many centuries that the buildings belong to and the different levels of wealth of the families they belonged to, these palaces present different styles, mainly in their facades which look both Baroque and Renaissance.

Here’s a list of some of the buildings to look out for when navigating across the Grand Canal:

  • PALAZZO CORNER DELLA CA’ GRANDE: a Renaissance building located in San Marco that is nowadays the seat of the Prefecture;
  • PALAZZO GRASSI: Located in St. Mark’s District, this palace is a core element of the city because it’s the last patrician palace built before the fall of the Serenissima Republic of Venice;
  • CA’ D’ORO: Located in Cannaregio District, this gothic building is nowadays Musei Veneto’s regional department;
  • CA’ FOSCARI: another gothic palace located on Canal Grande that is now a university;

The Rialto Bridge: a historical landmark of the Grand Canal mentioned by Shakespeare

Along Canal Grande, you will also be able to find the Rialto Bridge. This is the oldest bridge that crosses the Grand Canal in Venice and it connects the districts of San Marco and San Polo. It was constructed multiple times throughout the centuries, starting in 1173 and only ending in 1591.

Apart from being known as the most ancient bridge on Canal Grande, the Rialto Bridge is quite popular for being mentioned in Shakespeare’s “Merchant of Venice” by the character “Shylock” who says: “What news on the Rialto?”.

Regata Storica: experiencing the biggest boat event of Venice on the Grand Canal

Canal Grande is also the protagonist of one of the biggest events in the city of Venice. The Regata Storica is an important boat manifestation that takes place on the first Sunday of September. It’s one of the most awaited events and every year it sees the active participation of locals and tourists!

Get a Gondola Tour of Canal Grande

It’s no mystery that one of the most beautiful ways to explore the city of Venice is by gondola. Being on this particular boat and getting to know the hidden parts of the city through the help of the gondolier is an experience that needs to be done at least once in a lifetime! It’s not very cheap though: the prices go from 80 to 100 euros for a 30-minute private tour during the day but, you only live once, right?

Conclusion

The city of Venice is filled with great beauty and Canal Grande is definitely no exception! Finding out more about this road located on the water is a stunning experience and, if you want to fully immerse yourself in its beauty, we highly suggest you visit our website!