Travel and Vacations

Ca’ d’Oro: Must-See Venice Tourist Attraction

Story Published on August 7, 2008 ⋅  Email this Story ⋅  Print this Story ⋅ Post a comment ⋅

One of the most outstanding works of architecture in the city of Venice is known as the Golden House. In a city renowned for wonderful architecture, the Golden House owns quite a claim to fame that is well deserved.

Influences from the Middle East and throughout the continent were enjoyed by Venice which has helped them to remain a big part of trade for centuries. This cosmopolitan city’s architecture is affected by the mixture of trade and influence from places beyond.

Both Ca’ d’Oro and the Grand Canal, which is the main waterway in the charming town, were built in the mid 15th century. The Contarini family made Ca’ d’Oro their home after 1430, and gave eight of its leaders to the town between 1043 and 1676.

Once adorned in gold leaf, which helped give the building its name, the pink and white facade hold very little relevance to the Greek. A near floral design is present on the premises, the work of Giovanni Bon who was a well known architect during the time it was built.

In a colonnaded loggia accessible from the canal level, you will find the entrance on the ground floor. An awe inspiring enclosed balcony located upstairs can be found right outside the art gallery. Although this view from outside is impressive, once inside it’s even more so.

In a city that is otherwise bustling, peace can be found when visiting the inner courtyard. The courtyard can be crowded with visitors, so finding a quiet time to rest is key. A good way to relax here is to see the wellhead, otherwise known as the vera di pozzo. Other interesting attractions are also close by.

16th century Flemish Tapestries are displayed in one room, while in another, a collection of bronzes can be found which date between the 12th and 16th centuries. Just about every time period can be experienced through the furniture decorating the rooms throughout the premises.

Paintings found in the world famous Gallerie dell’Accademia are good examples of the kind of quality that can be found here. By Titian, “Venus at the Mirror” can be found as well as Manegna’s “San Sebastiano”. Other gorgeous paintings displayed are by Giorgione, Carpaccio and Tintoretto among others. Impressively, Van Dyke and Jan Steel made it possible for Dutch artwork to make it to Venice.

The Grand Canal in all its glory can be seen from the balcony outside, where breathtaking views abound. The Quatrefoil windows display intricate carvings worth taking a look at, so get close and personal when taking in all the sights on the balcony. Located on the second floor, the polychrome marble incrustations on the balcony should not be overlooked.

From this part of the gallery, it is easy to gain access to a room filled with intricate ceramics. Fit for the richest of the 15th century in Venice, kitchenware such as cups and plates can be viewed, offering the sense of what life was like during this time period for the wealthy.

The Golden House is a treasure that holds a good reason to visit Ca’ d’Oro, shorn of its gold exterior.

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