Palazzo Malipiero

Palazzo Malipiero Venice: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled along Venice’s Grand Canal, Palazzo Malipiero stands as one of the city’s oldest and most architecturally significant palaces. With origins in the Byzantine era, this remarkable building has witnessed nearly a millennium of Venetian history, blending Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance influences in its architecture and interiors. Throughout its storied past, the palace has served as a residence for prominent noble families, a lively cultural hub attracting famous figures such as Giacomo Casanova, and, today, a vibrant venue for exhibitions and events during the Venice Biennale. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Palazzo Malipiero’s history, architectural features, visiting hours, ticketing information, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your visit. Whether you are a history enthusiast, art lover, or a curious traveler, Palazzo Malipiero is an essential stop on any Venice itinerary. (ermakvagus.com, palazzomalipiero.it, casanovasvenice.com, ciprianievents.com)

Scenic Venice canal with historic buildings and gondola

Early Origins and Byzantine Foundations
Transition Through Noble Families
Architectural Evolution
18th-Century Social and Cultural Significance
Decline and 20th-Century Revival
Architectural Features and Layout
Visiting Information (Hours, Tickets, Accessibility)
Events and Photographic Spots
Museum and Artistic Legacy
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Sources

Early Origins and Byzantine Foundations

Palazzo Malipiero traces its roots to the 10th and 11th centuries, originally constructed by the influential Soranzo family. Its early Byzantine architecture is evident in arched windows and ornate stonework, reflecting the defensive and aesthetic needs of medieval Venice. The palace expanded in the 13th century, marking the rise of Venetian noble prestige in the San Samuele district. The Soranzo and Boldù families also contributed to the area’s prominence by establishing the nearby Church of San Samuele. (ermakvagus.com)

Transition Through Noble Families

In the 15th century, ownership passed to the Cappello family through marriage—a common Venetian practice for consolidating wealth and influence. By 1590, the Malipiero family acquired the palace, with Caterino Malipiero’s 1622 restoration commemorated above the entrance. The Malipiero coat of arms, featuring a rooster’s claw, still adorns the façade, symbolizing the family’s enduring mark on Venetian society. (ermakvagus.com)

Architectural Evolution

Despite the widespread adoption of the Baroque style in Venice, Palazzo Malipiero retained a restrained architectural character. In the 17th and early 18th centuries, the Malipiero family unified the palace’s façade and expanded the gardens, creating a harmonious layout captured in Carlevarijs’s 1718 engravings. The Grand Canal façade displays pointed Gothic windows, ornate balconies, and Renaissance symmetry. The main entrance at Campo San Samuele, inscribed with “1622” and “K.M.”, leads to an impressive vestibule and garden. (palazzomalipiero.it, universes.art)

During the 18th century, Palazzo Malipiero became a center for social life in Venice. It was frequented by Giacomo Casanova, who was mentored here by Senator Alvise Gasparo Malipiero. The palace hosted gatherings that shaped Venetian Enlightenment, drawing artists, writers, and intellectuals like playwright Carlo Goldoni. Casanova’s memoirs vividly describe the palace’s lively salons and its role in the city’s social fabric. (casanovasvenice.com)

Decline and 20th-Century Revival

Following the end of the Malipiero family line in 1778 and the fall of the Venetian Republic, the palace entered a period of decline. It changed hands several times in the 19th century, but significant restoration efforts in the 20th century—especially under the Barnabò family—preserved its architectural integrity. Notably, composer Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari died here in 1948, highlighting the palace’s continued artistic relevance. In recent years, the Berggruen family’s acquisition has ensured its cultural preservation and adaptive reuse, hosting national pavilions during the Venice Biennale and contemporary exhibitions. (Financial Times, ArchDaily)

Architectural Features and Layout

Façades: The Grand Canal side features pointed Gothic quadriforas, Renaissance symmetry, and ornate balustrades. The Campo San Samuele entrance is marked by heraldic emblems and a grand portal.
Interiors: The piano nobile (main floor) is adorned with frescoed ceilings, Murano glass chandeliers, stucco work, and terrazzo floors. Reception rooms are connected enfilade-style, and ironwork details are found throughout.
Garden: A rare Venetian formal garden with marble statues, symmetrical paths, and a terrace overlooking the Grand Canal. (ciprianievents.com)
Unique Features: Independent staircases, water doors for boat arrivals, and the coats-of-arms of all major families associated with the palace.

Visiting Information

Hours

Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (last admission 5:30 PM)
Closed: Mondays and select public holidays
Note: Hours may vary during special events; check the official website for updates.

Tickets

General Admission: €12–€15 (varies by exhibition/event)
Reduced: €8–€10 (students, seniors)
Children under 12: Free
Guided Tours: Available by advance reservation for an additional fee
How to Buy: Purchase online via official Venice tourism website, palazzomalipiero.it, or at the entrance (subject to availability).

Accessibility

Wheelchair access to the main floor and garden; some historic areas may be less accessible. Ramps and elevators are available—contact ahead for assistance.

Getting There

Vaporetto (water bus): Lines 1 or 2, San Samuele stop
Walking: 5–10 minutes from Piazza San Marco or Rialto Bridge
Water taxi/gondola: Direct Grand Canal access

Events and Photographic Spots

Palazzo Malipiero is a sought-after venue during the Venice Biennale, hosting official pavilions and contemporary art exhibitions. The Grand Canal façade and the garden are favorite spots for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Museum and Artistic Legacy

Within the palace, exhibitions chronicle its architectural evolution and role in Venetian society. Artifacts include period furnishings, manuscripts, and multimedia installations that celebrate Venice’s cultural heritage and the legacy of figures like Casanova.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Nearby Sites: Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Ca’ Rezzonico, Church of San Samuele, Campo San Polo
Travel Tips:
- Visit early or late in the day for the best experience and photos
- Book guided tours to deepen your understanding of the architecture and history
- Check for special exhibitions or events, especially during the Venice Biennale
- Use public transport; no on-site parking

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (last admission 5:30 PM). Check the official website for seasonal variations.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in English and other languages, by prior reservation.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, without flash in most areas. Tripods are not allowed.

Q: Is the garden always open?
A: The garden is open during visiting hours but may be restricted during private events.

Q: Is the palace accessible for those with mobility issues?
A: The main floor and garden are wheelchair accessible; some upper floors may not be.

Conclusion

Palazzo Malipiero stands as a living testament to Venice’s rich history, architectural evolution, and enduring cultural vibrancy. From its Byzantine roots through Renaissance and Enlightenment transformations, the palace offers visitors a unique journey through Venice’s past and present. Whether you are drawn by its stunning Grand Canal façade, tranquil garden, or storied role in Venetian society, Palazzo Malipiero is an unmissable highlight among the city’s historic sites.

To plan your visit, check the latest hours and ticket options on the official Venice tourism site or palazzomalipiero.it. For an enhanced experience, download the Audiala app for audio guides and detailed itineraries, and follow the palace on social media for news about exhibitions and events.