Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto — Attraction in Venice

Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto, often called San Giacometto, is a small yet historically significant church nestled in the bustling Campo San Giacomo, right at the foot of the iconic Rialto Bridge. Believed by locals to be the oldest church in Venice, legend traces its origins back to the year 421, though historical records suggest a later date. Despite its modest size, the church is an architectural gem, distinguished by its elegant Gothic portico and an unusual 15th-century clock that adorns its façade.

Over the centuries, San Giacomo di Rialto has remained a focal point of Venetian life, standing resilient through the city’s dynamic history. Today, it houses a fascinating museum dedicated to musical instruments, offering visitors a glimpse into Venice’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. Inside, the atmosphere is serene, with dim lighting that highlights the church’s ancient charm. The museum showcases an exquisite collection of rare stringed instruments, including violins and lutes, reflecting Venice’s deep connection to music and craftsmanship.

For those exploring the Rialto area, San Giacomo di Rialto is more than just a historical landmark—it is a living testament to Venice’s enduring spirit, where history, art, and music...

This beautiful church is located in the small square of Campo San Giacomo (which is the main market of Venice) next to the magnificent Rialto Bridge. Just looking at the church suggests that it is something special. According to local Venetian tradition, it is the oldest church in Venice, built in 421 by a carpenter named Candioto or Eutinopo. The history of this church is closely connected with the origin of the Venetian market, which began to take shape in the 12th century. On the outer wall of the apse of the church stands an inscription from the 12th century calling on the merchants of the market to be honest. Interestingly, by order of the doge Marin Grimani, the church floor was erected in 1601 to avoid flooding during the Venetian high waters (acqua alta). San Giacomo di Rialto is a small church, with an unusual bell tower, a Gothic portico (the only one of its kind in the whole city) and a large clock from the 15th century, which is well received by local merchants. Currently, is the museum for musical instruments....

This is a great plaza which you encounter on your way towards the Rialto bridge. A small but cute fountain stands in the center of the plaza, and one of the buildings has a large, beautiful historical clock. But the main evwnt here are all the little shops where you can find very unique souvenirs. An embroidery shop (where she will stitch amazing work right in front of you), of course your classic magnets, keychains, shirt and hats etc (the hats, magnets and shirts were of a higher quality here than other major touristy spots), but one of the shops had small souvenir swords, knives, and even a pellet gun (it may have been a non-functioning pellet gun, just decorated up to be a display for your mantle, but either way it was not a real functioning firearm). That was pretty interesting to find, you don't see very many shops like...