When Visiting Venice, Go See Ca’ d’Oro - The Golden Palace

Posted by Eran Malloch

The Golden House which is located in Venice is known for some of the most outstanding works of architecture in the area. The city is well renowned for this, and their claim to fame is truly deserved.

For centuries, Venice has been a main European trade center and has taken influences from places like the Middle East and others throughout the continent. This cosmopolitan city’s architecture has been affected with a mixture of its influences.

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.

In Venetian Gothic style, the white and pink facade once displayed gold leafing which gave the building its name. It’s complete with arches styled after the Byzantine era, and posts carved with capitals, which don’t much resemble the Greek. Giovanni Bon created what resembles floral designs, and is considered to be a noted architect of the time period.

Located in the colonnaded loggia accessible on the canal level, is the entrance to the premises. An astounding balcony located above the entrance is just outside the upper floor art gallery. With the gorgeous view outside, many are awe stricken when they find the view inside is even more impressive.

In a bustling city, peace can be found in the inner courtyard as long as the place isn’t too crowded with visionary visitors. While resting, an interesting sight not to miss is the wellhead, otherwise known as the vera di pozzo.

In one room, you can find Flemish tapestries from the 16th century. In another room close by, a collection of bronzes that stem from times between the 12th and 16th centuries can be explored. Throughout all the rooms, plenty of furniture from almost every time period can be enjoyed.

Paintings fabulous enough to compete with those found in the Gallerie dell’ Accademia can be found here in the gallery. “San Sebastiano” and “Venus at the Mirror” by Titan are displayed, along with other paintings by well known artists such as Carpaccio and Tintoretto. The Dutch even landed in Venice, thanks to the works of Van Dyke and Jan Steen.

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.

Outstanding ceramics found in a small room off of the loggia are well worth seeing, as kitchenware - including cups and plates - would impress even the wealthy in Venice during the 15th century.

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

Share This

Tags: Travel

Under Travel Tags: Travel