View of the Grand Canal of Venice east of Ponte degli Scalzi with Palazzo Calbo Crotta on the left

San Geremia

San Geremia Venice: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

San Geremia Church stands as one of Venice’s most storied and accessible religious sites, located in the heart of the Cannaregio district. This remarkable church, situated along the Grand Canal and near the Santa Lucia train station, is celebrated for its architectural evolution, its role as the final resting place of Saint Lucy of Syracuse, and its enduring spiritual and artistic significance. Whether you are a pilgrim, history enthusiast, or art lover, San Geremia offers a unique window into Venice’s multifaceted heritage. This guide delivers comprehensive information on San Geremia’s visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions, helping you plan a meaningful visit to this iconic Venetian landmark. For authoritative details, consult resources including the Sanctuary of Lucy official website, Nomads Travel Guide, and Bonjour Venise.

Historical Development of San Geremia
The Relics of Saint Lucy: History and Significance
Artistic and Religious Highlights
Visitor Guide: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Local Context
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

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Historical Development of San Geremia

Foundations and Architectural Evolution

San Geremia’s origins date back to the 11th century, with its earliest documented church established around 1013. It underwent significant reconstructions over the centuries, notably under Doge Sebastiano Ziani in 1174, and again in the 18th century when architect Carlo Corbellini led a comprehensive rebuild, culminating in 1760. The church’s brick façade—added in 1861—and its robust Romanesque bell tower, likely from the 12th century, highlight the layers of Venetian architectural history (Wikipedia; Italyscapes; Bonjour Venise).

San Geremia’s apse faces the Grand Canal, nestled between Palazzo Labia and Palazzo Flangini. Its prominent location makes it a significant landmark for arrivals from the train station or by vaporetto (Venice Travel Guide).

Damage and Restoration

Throughout its history, San Geremia has endured damage, notably from Austrian shelling during the 1849 siege and a fire in 1998. Restoration efforts have preserved its historical and artistic integrity (Nomads Travel Guide).

The Relics of Saint Lucy: History and Significance

The Journey of the Relics

Saint Lucy of Syracuse, martyred in 304 CE, is revered as the patron saint of light and eyesight. Her relics arrived in Venice in 1205 after the Fourth Crusade, initially placed in San Giorgio Maggiore. A tragic boating accident during her feast in 1279 prompted the construction of a church for her relics in Cannaregio. With the demolition of Santa Lucia Church in the 1860s to accommodate the railway station, her relics were transferred to San Geremia (History Walks Venice).

Pilgrimage and Devotion

San Geremia has become a major pilgrimage site, particularly on December 13th, Saint Lucy’s feast day. The relics are displayed in a bulletproof glass urn, protected by a silver mask placed by Angelo Roncalli (later Pope John XXIII) in 1955, following a dramatic theft and recovery in 1981 (Nomads Travel Guide).

Artistic and Religious Highlights

Interior Artworks

San Geremia’s interior, marked by sober walls and harmonious proportions, features notable artworks:

Main Altar: Created by Giovanni Maria Morlaiter, with statues of St. Peter and St. Jeremiah Apostle by Giovanni Ferrari (1798).
Frescoes: Agostino Mengozzi Colonna’s monochrome “Two Angels Uphold the Globe” graces the altar backdrop.
Paintings: Palma il Giovane’s “The Virgin at the Incoronation of Venice by St. Magnus” adorns the fourth altar.
Sculptures: Morlaiter’s “Madonna of the Rosary” and Giovanni Marchiori’s “Immaculate Conception” are among the treasures (Venice Travel Guide; Bonjour Venise).

Spiritual Role

Beyond its art, San Geremia is an active sanctuary, hosting regular liturgies and serving as a center for veneration, especially for those seeking intercession related to eyesight (Sanctuary of Lucy; Visit Venice Italy).

Visitor Guide: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Visiting Hours

San Geremia’s typical opening times are:

Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am–12:00 noon, 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
Sunday: 9:30 am–12:15 pm
Alternate schedule: Daily 7:15 am–12:00 noon, 3:00 pm–7:30 pm (invenicetoday.com; tripomatic.com)

Always confirm hours via the official sanctuary website, as times may change for services or events.

Tickets and Admission

Entry: Free for individual visitors; donations are welcomed.
Groups: Must book in advance to avoid service disruptions (santuariodilucia.it).
Guided Tours: Available for groups by prior arrangement; some may have fees.

Accessibility and Facilities

Access: Level entrance from Campo San Geremia, though some steps remain; wheelchair accessibility is partial.
Restrooms: Not available inside; use facilities at the train station or nearby cafés.
WiFi: Not available to general visitors (booking.com).

Visitor Etiquette

Dress Code: Modest attire required (shoulders and knees covered).
Behavior: Silence and respect are expected, especially during services.
Photography: May be restricted near Saint Lucy’s relics; always observe rules (santuariodilucia.it).

Nearby Attractions and Local Context

Religious and Cultural Sites

Basilica di San Marco: Renowned for its mosaics and architecture (Saintly Ways).
Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto: One of Venice’s oldest churches.
Chiesa dei Frari: Houses masterpieces by Titian and Bellini.
Scalzi (Santa Maria di Nazareth): Baroque church near the train station.

Palaces and Landmarks

Palazzo Labia: Adjacent, with Tiepolo frescoes.
Palazzo Flangini: Baroque palace on the Cannaregio Canal.
Ponte degli Scalzi: Grand Canal bridge with panoramic views.
Rialto Bridge: The city’s most iconic bridge.

Museums and Green Spaces

Ca’ d’Oro: Gothic palace and art museum.
Fondaco dei Turchi: Now the Natural History Museum.
Giardini Papadopoli: Nearby public gardens.

Dining and Accommodation

Eateries: Trattoria Alla Madonna, Osteria al Ponte, and Pasticceria Tonolo nearby (Saintly Ways).
Hotels: Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo, Ca’ Sagredo Hotel, Hotel Bucintoro.

Practical Travel Tips

Use public transport or walk (no parking in central Venice).
Comfortable shoes are recommended for cobblestone streets and bridges.
Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
Check tide forecasts during acqua alta (high water) seasons (lonelyplanet.com).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there entrance fees or tickets required for San Geremia?
A: No, entry is free for individuals; donations are appreciated. Groups must book in advance.

Q: What are San Geremia’s visiting hours?
A: Typically 8:30 am–12:00 noon, 4:00 pm–6:00 pm (Mon–Sat); 9:30 am–12:15 pm (Sun). Hours may vary.

Q: Is the church accessible to those with disabilities?
A: The entrance is relatively level, but full wheelchair accessibility is not guaranteed.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography may be restricted, especially near the relics. Follow posted signs or staff directions.

Q: How do I reach San Geremia via public transport?
A: Five-minute walk from Santa Lucia train station or vaporetto stops “Ferrovia” and “Guglie.”

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, available for groups with prior booking through the sanctuary.

Conclusion & Call to Action

San Geremia embodies Venice’s spiritual devotion, artistic heritage, and resilient history. Its welcoming atmosphere, free entry, and central location make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Venice. To maximize your experience, verify current visiting hours, respect visitor guidelines, and consider exploring the rich tapestry of nearby sites in Cannaregio.

Ready to plan your visit?
Download the Audiala app for interactive maps, guided audio tours, and exclusive Venice travel tips. For the latest updates on San Geremia’s hours, events, and group tours, visit the official sanctuary website. Follow us on social media for more insights into Venice’s historical and spiritual treasures.