What to do in its eastern part, called the Castello district?
Venice is a city that needs no introduction – it's known for its intricate network of canals, beautiful architecture, and rich history.
The Castello district of Venice is known for its cultural and historical significance.
In this article, we will explore 10 things you have to do in the Castello district.
Why is Castello district in Venice Italy so named?
The Castello district in Venice is named after the Castello neighborhood, which is located in the eastern part of the city.
The neighborhood is called Castello (meaning "castle" in Italian) after a castle that probably stood in the area of the Isola di San Pietro.
Where is the Castello district located?
The Castello district is located in the eastern part of Venice, Italy, and it is one of the six sestieri, or neighborhoods, of the city.
The district is bordered by the Giudecca and Dorsoduro neighborhoods to the south, the San Marco district to the west, and the Cannaregio district to the north.
The Castello district is known today as its home to many landmarks and attractions, including the Arsenale, the Giardini della Biennale, and the Church of San Francesco della Vigna. It is also one of the most beautiful places to stay and dine out.
Let's see what to in Castello district in Venice!
1. Visit the symbol of the naval power of the city
The Arsenale is a historic shipyard in Venice that played a significant role in the city's naval power.
It was the largest shipyard in Europe in the 16th century and was responsible for building some of the most famous ships in history, including the ships of the Venetian fleet during the Crusades.
Related to the Arsenale there is also an extraordiary museum that showcases the city's maritime history, with exhibits on shipbuilding, naval battles, and the everyday lives of sailors.
2. Explore one of the largest gardens of Venice
The Giardini della Biennale is a series of gardens in the Castello district that host the Venice Biennale, a prestigious international art exhibition held every two years.
The gardens are home to several pavilions, each representing a different country, and feature works by some of the world's most renowned artists. The Biennale is held in odd-numbered years, but the gardens are open to the public year-round and are a great place to relax and take in some art.
3. Visit one of the most important churches of the Castello district of Venice Italy
The Church of San Francesco della Vigna is a beautiful and historic church located in the Castello district.
It was built in the 13th century and is named after the nearby vineyard (vigna in Italian).
The church is known for its Renaissance architecture and its beautiful frescoes, which were painted by some of the most famous artists of the time. It's a great place to visit for art and architecture enthusiasts.
4. Take a stroll through the public gardens
The Giardini Pubblici, or Public Gardens, are a beautiful park located in the Castello district.
They were established in the 19th century and are home to a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a small lake and several statues. The gardens are a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature, and they offer a nice respite from the bustling city.
5. Visit one of the greatest historic building of the city
The Scuola Grande di San Giovanni Evangelista is a beautiful and historic building in the Castello district that was once home to a religious fraternity.
It's known for its beautiful Renaissance architecture and its frescoes, which were painted by some of the most famous artists of the time. Today, the building is open to the public and is a great place to learn about the history of Venice and see some beautiful art.
6. Step into one of the most ancient churches of Venice
The Church di Santa Maria Formosa is one of the city's oldest churches, having been founded in the 7th century.
The church is named after Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the term "formosa" means "beautiful" in Italian.
It is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and its rich history. It has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries, and today it is a popular tourist destination in Venice.
The church is also home to several works of art, including frescoes and statues.
7. Visit the Church of San Pietro di Castello
The Church of San Pietro di Castello is a beautiful and historic church located in the Castello district. It was built in the 7th century and is one of the oldest churches in Venice.
It's known for its beautiful architecture and its rich history, and it's a great place to learn about the history of the city. The church is also home to several beautiful frescoes and other works of art, making it a must-see destination for art enthusiasts.
8. Explore the Riva degli Schiavoni
The Riva degli Schiavoni is a waterfront promenade located in the Castello district that offers stunning views of the Venetian Lagoon.
It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's a great place to take a leisurely stroll, take in the sights and sounds of the city, and enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the waterfront.
9. Visit the Museo Storico Navale
The Museo Storico Navale, or Naval History Museum, is located in the Castello district and is dedicated to the history of the Venetian navy.
It features exhibits on the city's maritime history, including ships, naval battles, and the everyday lives of sailors. The museum is a great place to learn about the city's naval power and its role in shaping the history of Venice.
10. Visit one of the most picturesque bookstores of Venice
Libreria Acqua Alta is a unique bookstore located in Venice, Italy.
It is located in the Castello neighborhood and is known for its unusual layout and collection of books. The bookstore is called "Acqua Alta," which means "high water" in Italian, because it is located in a flood-prone area of the city and has had to deal with water damage and flooding over the years.
As a result, the bookstore has a somewhat haphazard layout, with books stacked in every available space and even floating in bathtubs and gondolas to protect them from the water. Despite its unconventional appearance, Libreria Acqua Alta is a popular destination for book lovers, both for its unique atmosphere and its wide selection of books.
We hope this article has given you some ideas for things to do in the Castello district in Venice, Italy.
From exploring the city's rich history and cultural heritage to taking in the beauty of nature and enjoying the local markets, there's something for everyone in this vibrant and historic part of the city.
