Scala Contarini del Bovolo: visit a Venetian jewel!

A few steps from Campo Manin and not far from San Marco, we find one of the hidden jewels of Venice: Scala Contarini del Bovolo! Next to the famous staircase, from which it takes its name, there is Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, built at the end of the fifteenth century in late Gothic style.

The palace has two very different facades, one overlooking the court of the Maltese, the other towards the Rio di San Luca.

To attract the attention of all visitors, a monumental staircase of 80 monolithic steps that rotate counterclockwise, surmounted by a dome viewpoint. Climb to the top to enjoy the spectacular view that will appear to your eyes! Scala Contarini del ticket, book them now!

Bovolo tower Venise: Why is it called that?

Scala Contarini del Bovolo is the most valuable spiral staircase in Venice, a unique monument, at the time delicate and imposing, which combines different styles, from Renaissance, to Gothic, to Venetian-Byzantine.

The construction of Bovolo tower in Venice was commissioned by Pietro Contarini, a Venetian lord,  member of the family branch who was engaged as senators of the Serenissima Republic. This marvel of architecture was realized by Giovanni Candi.

Bovolo Venice: unexpected surprise on the top!

The palace Bovolo in Venice was built between the 14th and 15th centuries as the home of the Contarini family “di San Paternian”, who once added the staircase to their home were nicknamed “dal Bovolo“, is a snail in Venetian dialect.

There was no special view from the palace (it did not overlook the Grand Canal), but its location was strategic as it was located between Rialto Bridge and Market which was the economic heart, and Doge Palace and Piazza San Marco which was the political heart of Venice.

Climb up the Scala Contarini del Bovolo staircase (comparable to a cylindrical tower) and feel the lively sensation of being at the centre of the city’s history… with a surprise waiting for you at the top: the Belvedere offers an unforgettable impressive view of Venice, at any time of day.

Also worth mentioning is the Sala del Tintoretto, part of the same complex, which houses a precious sketch by Tintoretto of the famous Paradise.

Scala Contarini del Bovolo: tickets and visiting hours

Ticket price for adults – 8 euros, children (0-11 years) and seniors over 65 years – 6 euros
For the Scala del Bovolo, visiting hours are from 09:30 to 17:30 (last entry and closing of the ticket office at 17:00).

And open every day of the year with a few exceptions, namely:

• January 1
• August 15
• December 25

Outside the regular opening hours, it is very interesting to follow the calendar of extraordinary evening events: a unique opportunity to experience a fascinating place at sunset! Or, why not organize a private event here? It could be an exclusive aperitif with music or a dinner for example!

Scala Contarini del Bovolo – hidden jewel: are there more to discover?

In addition to the entrance to Scala del Bovolo you can visit to another jewel site of the Fondazione Venezia, the Oratorio dei Crociferi-Sito nel sestiere di castello, a short distance from Fondamenta della Misericordia.

Founded in the 13th century with a welfare function, the Oratory is a unique artistic-monum thanks to the cycle of paintings by Palma il Giovane that decorates it entirely telling the story of the order of crucifers in Venice. A truly evocative visit for lovers of art and history. Art lovers are invited to join an exclusive guided tour to discover the hidden jewels of Venice. The tour will include a guided visit to the Scala del Bovolo, the Ospedaletto Complex and the Oratorio dei Crociferi. Ask us for all the information!