What the palace is
Palazzo Corner della Regina, also known as Ca’ Corner della Regina, is an 18th-century Baroque palace overlooking the Grand Canal in Venice’s Santa Croce district. Once a noble residence and later an educational institution and pawnshop, it is now a cultural venue under the stewardship of Fondazione Prada. Its historic architecture and exhibition spaces bring Venice’s past into dialogue with contemporary art.
History
The palace was built between 1724 and 1728 by architect Domenico Rossi for the powerful Cornaro (Corner) family. Its name honors Caterina Cornaro, who was born there in 1454 and later became Queen of Cyprus.
The design combines late Baroque and early Neoclassical styles. Over the centuries, the palace served as a noble residence, an educational institution and, later, the Monte di Pietà pawnshop. Fondazione Prada has restored and revitalized it as a cultural destination since 2011.
What to see
Architecture and interiors
The symmetrical Baroque façade has arched windows, coats of arms and a rusticated Istrian stone base. Inside are a monumental central atrium and staircase with intricate balustrades, as well as 18th-century frescoes and stucco decoration. The canal-side loggia and balconies offer views of the Grand Canal.
The ground-floor vaulted halls are used for exhibitions. The piano nobile contains grand reception rooms for art installations, while the upper floors have more intimate exhibition areas.
Exhibitions and events
Fondazione Prada hosts international exhibitions and multidisciplinary projects. The 2025 season features an OMA/Rem Koolhaas show exploring the diagram as an architectural tool (art-frame.org). Past exhibitions have included artists Gianni Piacentino, Francesco Vezzoli, Elmgreen & Dragset, and Miranda July. The foundation also hosts major exhibitions and events, especially during the Venice Biennale.
Photography
Photographic spots include the palace façade viewed from the Grand Canal, the grand atrium, staircase and frescoed rooms, and the balconies’ canal views. Non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, although restrictions may apply to particular exhibits.
Practical visiting information
Address and transport
Address: Ca’ Corner della Regina, Santa Croce 2215, 30135 Venice, Italy.
The nearest vaporetto stops are San Stae and San Samuele. Lines 1 or 2 serve both stops, which are a short walk from the palace; San Stae is also listed as the nearest stop.
Opening hours and tickets
Published opening-hour details vary. One listing gives Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, closed Mondays and public holidays. Another says Fondazione Prada is typically open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM, and closed Mondays. Hours are seasonal, so check the official Fondazione Prada venue page before visiting.
Admission details also vary: one listing gives €12 general admission and €8 reduced admission for EU citizens aged 18–25, with free entry for children under 18 and Venice residents. Another gives a standard adult admission range of €10–€15, with discounts for eligible groups. Children under 12 are also described as often entering free; check the current policy.
Advance online booking via the Fondazione Prada website is strongly recommended, especially during busy seasons. Tickets can also be bought at the ticket office or on site.
Accessibility and facilities
The palace is wheelchair accessible via ramps at the main entrance, and ramps and elevators are available in some areas. Most public areas are accessible, though some upper floors may be more challenging because of the building’s historic nature. Contact the foundation ahead of your visit about specific accessibility needs.
Facilities include a cloakroom, restrooms, staff assistance for accessibility and multilingual exhibition materials. Guided tours are available for groups and during special exhibitions, in multiple languages, and can be booked in advance. Audio guides are available for self-paced visits.
Tips
Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays are suggested for a quieter visit; another recommendation is to visit on weekday mornings. Spring and early autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. A visit of 1.5–2 hours is recommended.
Wear comfortable shoes for Venice’s cobblestone streets and bridges, and check for city entry fees on select days (Tiny Footsteps Travel). There is no café on site, but refreshments are available nearby. The ground floor is stroller-friendly, though upper floors may be difficult to access with a stroller.
For audio tours and real-time updates, the guide suggests downloading the Audiala app. Check the Fondazione Prada website for current exhibition, event and tour schedules.
Nearby places
- Ca’ Pesaro Baroque palace and International Gallery of Modern Art.
- Rialto Bridge Iconic Venetian bridge with shopping and photo opportunities.
- San Samuele Church Noted for its artistic heritage.
- Rialto Market and the Jewish Ghetto Both within walking distance.
FAQ
What are the visiting hours?
One listing gives Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, closed Mondays and public holidays. Another gives typical hours of Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM, closed Mondays. Check the official website for current seasonal hours.
How much are tickets?
Published details give €12 general admission and €8 reduced admission for EU citizens aged 18–25, with free entry for children under 18 and Venice residents. Another listing gives standard adult admission of €10–€15, with discounts for eligible groups. Children under 12 are also described as often entering free; check the current policy.
Can I buy tickets on site?
Yes. Tickets are available at the ticket office or on site, though advance online booking is advised.
Is the palace wheelchair accessible?
Ramps provide access at the main entrance, and ramps and elevators are available in some areas. Some upper floors may be challenging; contact the foundation for details.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours are available for groups and during special exhibitions, in multiple languages, and can be booked in advance.
Can I visit with a stroller?
The ground floor is stroller-friendly; upper floors may be difficult.
Is photography allowed?
Non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, but restrictions may apply to certain exhibits.
