Leave the crowds behind and find peace and beauty at this secluded Renaissance gem.
Pilgrims have been coming to the site of Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli for centuries to bring offerings to an icon of Mary of the Miracle. Legend has it that the saint brought a drowned man back to life and her image has a significant presence in the church dedicated to her.When funds were eventually raised to build a church on the site, the Venetians turned to the celebrated local architect Pietro Lombardo. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the residential district of Cannaregio, the pretty church, which dates from 1481, is one of the earliest examples of Venetian Renaissance design. Its graceful dome, curved pediment and luminous marble façade offer a striking first impression, while its tranquil, cool interior provides a welcome respite from the beating sun and tourist crowds of the city centre.Inside the light, airy church, there is much to admire within its delicately hued walls. Carvings of Mary and her angels appear in all their glory on the railings of the marble staircase, and 50 square coffers feature paintings of the prophets in traditional Venetian dress. Don’t miss the celebrated icon of I Miracoli (The Miracle) near the high altar. After your visit, join the locals for a coffee on the piazza before heading back to central Venice by gondola, pausing to admire the shimmering reflection of this elegant and ecclesiastically important building.The Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli is north-east of the Rialto Bridge and is open Monday to Saturday, with restricted access for visitors on Sundays outside of service times. There is a small entry charge which is often waived on Sundays. Photography is forbidden inside the church, but its pretty pink and white exterior makes a perfect shot.
