General

The 'Sestiere di Castello' is a quiet and tranquil area tucked away behind St.Mark's Square, characterised by narrow alleyways and passages. The district offers a refuge for tourists from the hustle and bustle of St. Mark's Square, Rialto and other major areas of interest. Settled in the fifth and sixth centuries, this district is one of the earliest inhabited areas of Venice, and is also the largest of Venice 's six districts. The name "Castello" comes from the castle that once provided defence from sea attacks. The district is home to a number of important historical sites and monuments.

Important Sites

Church of San Pietro di Castello

The Church of San Pietro di Castello was the Cathedral of Venice from 1451 until 1807, when it was succeeded by the St. Mark's Basilica.

Santa Maria dei Miracoli

Santa Maria dei Miracoli is the site of Niccolo di Pietro's image of the Virgin and Child. The Virgin and Child hang over the altar.

Church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo

Known popularly as San Zanipolo, the Church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo is a stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture, displaying a number of Doges' tombs.

San Zaccaria

The tomb of St. Zacharias, father of St. John the Baptist, is entombed at San Zaccaria.

Naval History Museum

Arsenal shipyard (now closed to the public)

Giardini Publico

"The Public Gardens ", site of the Venice Biennale, a world's fair for the contemporary arts, held from June to September every two years.

Riva degli Schiavoni

A busy promenade overlooking the harbour, leading to St. Mark's Square.