This may seem like a historical joke, but according to historians’ dating, it is customary to start the countdown of the Renaissance from January 1, 1400. The meaning and significance of this stage in human history can be defined by one phrase – “the triumph of the free and perfect man.” It is no coincidence that the foundation of European ideology of that era was humanism, preaching the highest development of human abilities. This movement captures all layers of society: merchant circles, religious spheres, and the masses.
Venice during the Renaissance of the 15th-16th centuries experiences its golden period, as evidenced by the renewal of the city’s appearance – new churches are being built. A striking example of pure, unclouded Renaissance is the church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli, a peculiar marble “box.” Not far from the aforementioned church, in the Lombardo workshop, an order is being fulfilled for the construction and decorative design of the building of the charitable – philanthropic society – the School of Saint Mark.
It is easy to compose this route, as the very atmosphere of the Renaissance, both contemplative and active at the same time, has not disappeared to this day in Venice.
The excursion route passes through St. Mark’s Square, the monastery church of Saint Zacharias, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Formosa, the Malipiero Trevisan Palace, and the Grimani Palace on Campo Santa Maria Formosa, the church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli, the Scuola of Saint Mark, and the church of San Giovanni Crisostomo. In the palaces and churches, masterpieces of Venetian painters, decorative and applied art objects are kept, and an undeniable highlight of the program will be getting acquainted with the genealogy of one of the most influential and famous families of Venice – the Grimani family.
Here is a quick sketch of the most popular Venetian route, “and verbosity is a mortal embellishment,” wrote the great Shakespeare, and it is a professional virtue of the guide. Therefore, you will see many more interesting things during the excursion.
