Church of Saint Mary of the Rosary 'Gesuati' — Attraction in Venice

Santa Maria del Rosario commonly known as I Gesuati, is an 18th-century Dominican church in the Sestiere of Dorsoduro, on the Giudecca canal. It's beautiful church with a rich history and beautiful paintings and sculptures. The church and almost all its sculpture and paintings were created within a thirty-year period, construction began in 1725, the church was consecrated in 1743, and the last sculptural decoration was in place by 1755. The religious order of the Jesuates, formally the Clerici apostolici Sancti Hieronymi was founded in Siena in the 14th century and had a presence in Venice by 1390. Its members were known as I poveri Gesuati (the poor Jesuates) because they frequently called on the name of Jesus, they had no connection with the Jesuits (I Gesuiti), whose church is in the north of Venice. They acquired some wealth from donations and legacies and from privileges granted by the state, including a monopoly on the distillation of wine. In 1493, they commenced the building of a small church on land fronting the Zattere (the fondamenta which borders the Giudecca Canal facing the Giudecca island), where the other buildings of the order stood. This church was originally dedicated to St. Jerome (San Girolamo) and later to Santa Maria della Visitazione (St. Mary of the Visitation) and became known as the church of the Visitation. Later, the order found it hard to recruit new members and a falling off in numbers combined with slackness in the performance of their duties led to its suppression by Pope Clement IX in 1668. In 1669 their property was put up for auction and acquired by the Dominicans, who installed themselves there in 1670. It became known as the Dominicans' place at the Gesuati and the Venetians have to this day continued to use the name. The Dominicans wished the building to celebrate the glories of their order and to encourage devotion to the rosary.The feast of Our Lady of the Rosary had been made part of the General Roman Calendar in 1716 after a victory over the Turks. Everyone is enchanted by the rich facade with many statues. The statues represent the four cardinal virtues, Prudence, Justice, Fortitude and Temperance. But above all we were delighted by the beautiful, rich interior of the church with beautiful paintings. The ceiling decoration was entrusted to Giovanni Battista Tiepolo who signed a contract with the Dominicans in May 1737. It was completed by 1739. There are three frescos in the ceiling. Nearest the entrance is the Glory of St. Dominic (his assumption into heaven) and nearest the altar is the Appearance of the Virgin to St. Dominic, while in the centre is a large fresco, a great masterpiece, representing the Institution...

Exploring Venice's Architectural Gem: The Church of Saint Mary of the Rosary (Gesuati)

Nestled in the heart of Venice, the Church of Saint Mary of the Rosary, commonly known as Gesuati, is a remarkable testament to Venetian art and architecture. This stunning church, located on the Zattere promenade, is renowned for its breathtaking façade and the rich history it embodies.

The exterior of the Church of Saint Mary of the Rosary is an exquisite example of late Baroque architecture, designed by Giorgio Massari. The façade is elegantly decorated with statues of religious figures that complement its grand structure, inviting visitors into a world of spiritual and artistic reverence.

Upon entering, the interior presents a magnificent display of artistic masterpieces. The church houses an impressive collection of paintings by some of the greatest Venetian painters of the 18th century, such as Giambattista Tiepolo, Sebastiano Ricci, and Giambattista Piazzetta. Their works contribute to the church’s serene and uplifting atmosphere, making it a haven for art lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

One of the highlights of visiting the Church of Saint Mary of the Rosary is viewing Tiepolo’s celebrated ceiling frescoes, which depict scenes from the New Testament and the life of the Virgin Mary. These frescoes not only showcase Tiepolo's mastery of color and form but also enrich the spiritual experience with their beauty and narrative depth.

The Church of Saint Mary of the Rosary stands not just as a place of worship but also as a cultural treasure in Venice. Its location away from the more crowded tourist spots allows for a more contemplative visit, where one can appreciate the quiet beauty and historical significance of this sacred space.

In conclusion, the Church of Saint Mary of the Rosary (Gesuati) is a must-visit for those interested in the convergence of art, history, and spirituality. Its architectural splendor and the artistic treasures it houses make it a unique and enriching part of any...

++THANKS for 28.000 Clicks on the Pictures +++ Sometimes, interestingly enough, Google, the most powerful search engine (that is, indeed, the "true nature", by all means) of the world shows remarkable lacks. Bad ! To explain : Punta della Dogana, an incredible place looking in Venezia both to the Laguna and Piazza San Marco, is indeed a historic place, of the customs offices, and the French milliardaire (warehouses) came only later. Most likely, you do not really need some English artists, better go to the nearby (indeed) Salute Church, great. And look at the moving water, as on photograph. One of the ways to come to Punta is via Zattere, which is opposite to Giudecca, the island on the other side. At 6 a.m. in the mornig it is very quiet, and you can see the incoming ships, including, as I did, a huge several masts sail boat, great luxury. Shortly after 6 a.m., if you are at right time, sun will go up, and you have some light on San Marco, on the other side. Need a good camera !

The place overall is like a kind of twisted "croissant", but the waters are moving. At the end, walk up Zattere, go to the Gesuati church, and have a look at the Joseph Brodsky Memorial plate, looking out for Giudecca. Very moving indeed, remembering Brodsky as a Poet...