Chiesa di Santo Stefano — Attraction in Venice

The Church of Saint Stephen (Chiesa di Santo Stefano) in Venice is a significant Catholic place of worship and a remarkable example of religious architecture. This church is known for its distinctive architectural style, which blends Gothic and Renaissance elements, reflecting the transition in architectural tastes that occurred during its construction. It is located in the sestiere (district) of San Marco, but is somewhat tucked away from the main tourist paths, offering a more serene atmosphere compared to the more crowded sites.

Santo Stefano was founded in the 13th century, but the structure that stands today underwent significant modifications in the 14th and 15th centuries. The church is renowned for its grandiose interior, which is adorned with artworks by prominent artists of the Venetian school. Its spacious, nave-centered plan allows for a spectacular play of light and shadow, enhancing the spiritual ambiance within.

One of the most striking features of Santo Stefano is its leaning campanile (bell tower), which tilts noticeably, adding a unique character to the church's silhouette against Venice's skyline. This tilt is due to the soft, marshy ground on which Venice is built, which has also affected other structures in the city, including the famous Campanile of San Marco.

The interior houses a rich collection of art, including works by Tintoretto and Paolo Veneziano. The church also contains the tombs of several notable figures, including the renowned Venetian doge, Francesco Morosini, and the composer Benedetto Marcello.

Santo Stefano is not just a place of historical and architectural significance; it remains an active site of worship and a part of the local community's spiritual life. Its location amidst the narrow alleys and picturesque canals of Venice makes it a captivating discovery for those exploring the city's...

Another one of Venice’s huge but quirky churches.

An interesting set of designs and an almost uniquely Venetian gothic style.

Carved wooden beams supported walled decorated with traditional altars and works of art, but also patterned brickwork and a unique ceiling design.

This is a very large internal space that can be used to accommodate a great number of of worshippers and activities.

Outside one can also see the famous...

Il livello stilistico adoperato dalle maestranze e dagli architetti per la edificazione della chiesa di Santo Stefano dev'esser stato particolarmente elevato, se oggi noi visitatori abbiamo il privilegio di poter esercitare il nostro sguardo di meraviglia sia sulla splendida facciata che sul magnifico interno. Il portale con arco a sesto acuto che lo sormonta, adornando la facciata di Santo Stefano in modo davvero originale, è una di quelle soluzioni architettoniche che conferiscono pregio e stile al costruito. Siamo infatti in presenza di un gotico veneziano che si esprime con motivi floreali. L'interno, di estensione e vastità di superficie impressionanti, è impreziosito da decorazioni e monumenti funebri, di particolare pregio quello del Morosini sul pavimento e quello del Contarini in controfacciata, di elevatissimo significato e valore artistico. Ma è in sacristia, ora adibita a museo, in cura alla benemerita associazione Chorus, laddove sono conservati i capolavori pittorici di eccelsi artisti, che lo sguardo del viandante visitatore si affina per cogliere il bagliore che amano le tele del Tintoretto e l'austera maestà coloristica...