Palazzo Corner della Regina: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Venice Historical Sites Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Palazzo Corner della Regina, also known as Ca’ Corner della Regina, is a magnificent testament to Venice’s layered history and architectural splendor. Overlooking the Grand Canal in the Santa Croce district, this 18th-century Baroque palace is not only a symbol of Venetian noble heritage but also a vibrant center for contemporary culture, thanks to its stewardship by Fondazione Prada. Once the childhood home of Caterina Cornaro, Queen of Cyprus, the palace weaves together centuries of history—from noble residence to educational institution, and now, a dynamic art venue. Visitors can expect a seamless blend of ornate Baroque façades, frescoed interiors, and cutting-edge exhibitions that create a unique dialogue between Venice’s past and present.
This guide delivers comprehensive information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a history buff, art enthusiast, or cultural traveler, you’ll find all the practical and historical details needed for an enriching visit to Palazzo Corner della Regina. For the latest updates on exhibitions and events, consult the official Fondazione Prada Venice website and cultural resources such as art-frame.org.
Table of Contents
- Discover Palazzo Corner della Regina: Highlights & Planning Your Visit
- Ca’ Corner della Regina: Architecture & Visitor Experience
- Fondazione Prada at Palazzo Corner della Regina: Exhibitions & Visitor Information
- Essential Visitor Information at a Glance
- Conclusion & Further Engagement
- Sources
Discover Palazzo Corner della Regina: Highlights & Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours, Ticket Prices, and Booking
- Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Closed Mondays and public holidays.
- Ticket Prices: General admission €12; reduced €8 (EU citizens 18–25); free for children under 18 and Venice residents.
- Booking: Advance online booking via the Fondazione Prada website is strongly recommended, especially during busy seasons.
Accessibility
The palace is wheelchair accessible via ramps at the main entrance. Although most public areas are accessible, some upper floors may be more challenging due to the building’s historic nature. Contact the foundation ahead of your visit for specific accessibility needs.
How to Get There & Travel Tips
- By Vaporetto: Nearest stops are “San Stae” and “San Samuele” (Lines 1 or 2), both a short walk from the palace.
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays provide a quieter experience. Spring and early autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds.
- Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for Venice’s cobblestone streets and bridges, and check for any city entry fees on select days (Tiny Footsteps Travel).
Historical Overview
Palazzo Corner della Regina, built between 1724 and 1728 by architect Domenico Rossi, was commissioned for the powerful Cornaro (Corner) family. Its name honors Caterina Cornaro, born here in 1454, who later became Queen of Cyprus. The design fuses late Baroque and early Neoclassical styles, with a rusticated Istrian stone façade, grand staircases, stucco decoration, and frescoes celebrating the family’s legacy. Over the centuries, the palace transitioned from noble residence to educational institution, and later, the Monte di Pietà pawnshop. Since 2011, Fondazione Prada has restored and revitalized the venue as a dynamic cultural destination.
Nearby Attractions
- 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 & Jewish Ghetto: Both within walking distance for a broader cultural experience.
Special Events & Guided Tours
Fondazione Prada regularly hosts major exhibitions and events, especially during the Venice Biennale. Guided tours—available in multiple languages—can be booked in advance for deeper insight into the palace’s architecture and art programming. Visit the Fondazione Prada website for current schedules.
Photographic Spots
- Exterior: The palace façade from the Grand Canal.
- Interior: Grand atrium, staircase, and frescoed rooms.
- Views: Balconies offer picturesque canal vistas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays and holidays.
Q: How much are tickets?
A: €12 general, €8 reduced, free for children under 18 and Venice residents.
Q: Is the palace wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, though some areas may pose challenges; contact for details.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, book in advance through the foundation.
Q: Can I buy tickets on-site?
A: Yes, but advance online booking is advised.
Ca’ Corner della Regina: Architecture & Visitor Experience
Architectural Highlights
- Façade: Symmetrical Baroque design with arched windows, coats of arms, and Istrian stone base.
- Central Atrium & Staircase: Monumental staircase with intricate balustrades.
- Frescoes & Stucco: 18th-century craftsmanship throughout.
- Canal-Side Loggia: Offers panoramic views of the Grand Canal.
Interior & Exhibition Spaces
- Ground Floor: Vaulted halls repurposed for exhibitions.
- Piano Nobile: Grand reception rooms for art installations.
- Upper Floors: Intimate exhibition areas; note limited accessibility.
Guided Tours & Amenities
- Guided Tours: Available for groups and during special exhibitions.
- Audio Guides: Offered for self-paced visits.
- Facilities: Cloakroom, restrooms, and staff assistance for accessibility.
Visitor Tips
- Photography: Non-flash allowed; restrictions may apply to certain exhibits.
- Refreshments: No café on site, but many options nearby.
- Visit Duration: 1.5–2 hours recommended.
FAQs
Q: Are tickets required for children?
A: Children under 12 often enter free; check current policy.
Q: Can I visit with a stroller?
A: Ground floor is stroller-friendly; upper floors may be difficult.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted in most areas.
Fondazione Prada at Palazzo Corner della Regina: Exhibitions & Visitor Information
Current Programming & Artistic Highlights
Since 2011, Fondazione Prada has transformed the palace into a hub for contemporary art, hosting international exhibitions and multidisciplinary projects. The 2025 season features a major OMA/Rem Koolhaas show exploring the diagram as an architectural tool (art-frame.org). Past exhibitions have included artists like Gianni Piacentino, Francesco Vezzoli, Elmgreen & Dragset, and Miranda July.
Accessibility & Facilities
- Accessibility: Ramps and elevators available in some areas; contact the foundation for specific needs.
- Amenities: Cloakroom, restrooms, and multilingual exhibition materials.
Travel Tips & Nearby Sights
- Combine visits to nearby landmarks: Rialto Bridge, Ca’ Pesaro, Jewish Ghetto.
- Transportation: Vaporetto lines 1 or 2 to San Stae stop.
- Best time to visit: Weekdays, mornings for fewer crowds.
FAQs
Q: What are Fondazione Prada’s opening hours?
A: Typically Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM; closed Mondays. Verify online.
Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online via Fondazione Prada website or at the ticket office.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages with advance booking.
Essential Visitor Information at a Glance
- Address: Ca’ Corner della Regina, Santa Croce 2215, 30135 Venice, Italy
- Nearest Vaporetto Stop: San Stae
- Opening Hours: Seasonal; check official website
- Admission: €10–€15 (standard adult), discounts for eligible groups
- Facilities: Cloakroom, restrooms, occasional guided tours
- Accessibility: Partial; contact foundation for specifics
Conclusion & Further Engagement
Palazzo Corner della Regina embodies Venice’s enduring cultural legacy, marrying its aristocratic grandeur with vibrant contemporary art. With thoughtfully preserved architecture, diverse exhibitions, and a prime Grand Canal location, it is a must-visit for anyone eager to experience Venice’s multilayered history and creativity. Use this guide for practical tips and historical context to maximize your visit. For up-to-date details, refer to the Fondazione Prada website and consider downloading the Audiala app for audio tours and real-time updates.
Reliable Sources and Further Reading
- Fondazione Prada Official Website
- Fondazione Prada Venice Visitor Information
- Art-Frame: Fondazione Prada 2025 Programmes
- Bonjour Venise: Prada Foundation Venice
- Tiny Footsteps Travel: Is Venice Worth Visiting?
