San Marco pier with city skyline in the background

Ca' Giustinian

Ca’ Giustinian Venice: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Ca’ Giustinian, majestically situated along Venice’s Grand Canal, is a shining example of the city’s architectural and cultural heritage. Built in the late 15th century for the influential Giustinian family, this palazzo fuses late Gothic and Renaissance styles, symbolizing Venice’s historical role as a crossroads between East and West. Today, Ca’ Giustinian serves not only as a remarkable historical landmark but also as the headquarters of the Venice Biennale, making it central to both the city’s storied past and its vibrant contemporary cultural scene (Venice Civic Museums, La Biennale di Venezia, Venice Architecture Guide).

Historical view of a Venetian palazzo in Venice from the 1850s

View of Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal in Venice with gondolas and historic buildings

Venice historic Palazzo Giustinian by canal with gondolas

Historical Overview and Evolution
Visitor Information
Architectural Features and Artistic Heritage
Ca’ Giustinian and the Venice Biennale
Plan Your Visit: Tips and FAQs
References and Further Reading

Historical Overview and Evolution

Origins and Early History

Ca’ Giustinian was constructed between 1471 and 1481, commissioned by the prominent Giustinian family during a period of prosperity for the Venetian Republic (Venice Civic Museums). The palazzo’s original design featured a façade along the Grand Canal, characterized by pointed arches, ornate tracery, and a harmonious blend of Byzantine and Gothic influences (Venice Architecture Guide). The ground floor was traditionally used for commerce, while the upper levels served as elegant living quarters and reception halls.

Renaissance and Notable Residents

During the Renaissance, the palazzo underwent significant enhancements, including the addition of classical columns and decorative friezes. The Giustinian family continued to host influential figures, among them Caterina Cornaro, Queen of Cyprus, who brought added prestige to the residence after abdicating her throne in 1489 (Caterina Cornaro Biography). The palazzo’s salons became known for their opulent décor and as gathering places for artists and intellectuals (Venetian Palaces).

Decline, Adaptation, and Restoration

Following the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, Ca’ Giustinian entered a period of decline, changing hands and serving various uses, including as a private residence, boarding house, and hotel (Venice Historical Buildings). In the 19th century, it housed the Società del Casino, a club for Venetian aristocrats. Restoration efforts in the 20th century, particularly in the 1930s and 1940s, stabilized the structure and preserved its decorative elements (Venice Restoration Projects). In 1932, Ca’ Giustinian began its transformation into a cultural hub as the headquarters of the Venice Biennale (La Biennale di Venezia).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Open primarily during Biennale events and special exhibitions: typically Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Closed on Mondays and select public holidays.
Always verify current hours via the official Venice Biennale website as schedules may vary by event.

Tickets and Admission

During Biennale periods, entry is included with the Biennale pass.
Outside Biennale periods, tickets (usually €10–€25) can be purchased online or at the entrance, with discounts for students, seniors, and children.
Guided tours incur an additional fee and should be booked in advance.

How to Get There

Vaporetto (Water Bus): Nearest stops are “San Marco Vallaresso,” “San Samuele,” and “San Marco-San Zaccaria.”
On Foot: A 5–10 minute walk from Piazza San Marco through Venice’s historic streets.
Address: San Marco 1364/A, Venice.

Accessibility

Ca’ Giustinian provides ramps and elevators for improved accessibility, though some historic areas may remain limited.
Family-friendly services include children’s play areas, bottle warmers, and high chairs (Venezia Unica).

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided tours are available during major exhibitions and must be booked in advance.
The palace regularly hosts workshops, creative activities for children, and cultural events. Check the Biennale event calendar for details.

Nearby Attractions

Art and History: Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Palazzo Grassi, Accademia Gallery.
Landmarks: Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and the Grand Canal.
Dining and Shopping: Calle Larga XXII Marzo and Calle Vallaresso offer vibrant options (Pocket Wanderings).

Architectural Features and Artistic Heritage

Ca’ Giustinian’s three-story façade, facing the Bacino di San Marco, is a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture, featuring a central quadrifora, pointed arches, and intricate stonework in Istrian stone (Venetian Gothic Architecture). The palace consists of two seamlessly joined structures—the Giustinian and Badoer-Tiepolo buildings (Live the World).

Key Interior Spaces:

Noble Floor: Showcases 18th-century décor, faux-marble finishes, Murano glass mirrors, and elegant stucco.
Portego: Central passage now used for exhibitions, connecting the Grand Canal entrance to the rear courtyard.
Sala delle Colonne: A vast, versatile hall adorned with 1930s stucco garlands, used for events, conferences, and performances.
Modern Adaptations: Recent renovations include minimalist interiors, improved lighting, and facilities supporting La Biennale’s operations (Venice Tourism).

Photographic Highlights:

The façade from the Grand Canal, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Panoramic lagoon views from the palace’s terraces.
Contrasts of historic and contemporary design during exhibitions.

Ca’ Giustinian and the Venice Biennale

Since 1932, Ca’ Giustinian has been the headquarters of the Venice Biennale, the world’s oldest international art exhibition. The palace is the administrative and curatorial hub for major events, including the Art and Architecture Biennales, as well as festivals in cinema, dance, music, and theater (universes.art). Its iconic spaces, such as the Sala delle Colonne, regularly host press conferences, artist talks, and workshops (stirworld.com).

The upcoming 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, curated by Carlo Ratti, will explore the theme “Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective.” and further underscore Ca’ Giustinian’s role as a platform for global cultural dialogue (stirworld.com).

Plan Your Visit: Tips and FAQs

Practical Tips

Book Early: Secure tickets, tours, and accommodations well in advance for Biennale periods.
Venice Pass: Consider for discounted access to major sites and vaporetto rides (Visit Venezia).
Best Times: Early mornings or late afternoons offer quieter visits.
Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes due to Venice’s cobbled streets.
Accessibility: Contact the Biennale office for specific mobility needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Ca’ Giustinian open year-round?
A: Public access is primarily during Biennale events or special exhibitions; check current schedules.

Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: Online via the Biennale website or at the venue during event periods.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, especially during exhibitions. Advance booking is recommended.

Q: Is the palace accessible to visitors with disabilities?
A: Accessibility is improved but some historic areas may remain limited. Contact ahead for assistance.