Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari

Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and History in Venice

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari—commonly known as the Frari—is an iconic Gothic basilica located in Venice’s San Polo district. Revered for its architectural majesty, spiritual significance, and collection of Renaissance masterpieces, the Frari remains a cornerstone of Venetian heritage. Founded by the Franciscan order in the 13th century, its unadorned brick façade and soaring interior reflect ideals of humility and piety, while its chapels house works by Titian, Giovanni Bellini, Donatello, and more. This guide provides a thorough overview of the basilica’s history, architecture, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and practical tips, helping you make the most of your visit to one of Venice’s most cherished historical sites (Sacred Destinations, Introducing Venice, ReidsItaly.com).

Venetian banners from Sestiere de S.Polo and Parrochia S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari in Venice

Map showing location of I Frari church in Venice Italy

Historical Overview

Origins and Foundation

Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari traces its beginnings to the arrival of the Franciscan order in Venice in 1226. Granted land in the San Polo district, the Franciscans constructed their first church by 1338. However, the growing monastic community soon necessitated a larger basilica, whose construction began in the mid-14th century and continued for over a century. Its campanile, completed in 1396, stands as the second tallest in Venice (Sacred Destinations, Introducing Venice).

Architectural Evolution

The Frari exemplifies Venetian Gothic architecture, distinct for its austere brickwork and restrained ornamentation—an embodiment of Franciscan values. The basilica’s exterior is plain yet monumental, while inside, twelve robust columns support ogival arches and a luminous nave. Notably, the Frari contains Venice’s only surviving rood screen and intricately carved choir stalls by Marco Cozzi. Over the centuries, chapels and embellishments were added, and restoration efforts have preserved its spiritual and artistic legacy (Venicelover, The Geographical Cure).

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Exterior Features

Façade: The church’s façade is divided into three sections by late Gothic pilasters and features circular windows and a central portal adorned with statues by Bartolomeo Bon and Alessandro Vittoria. Above, remnants of an 18th-century fresco can be seen (imagesofvenice.com).
Bell Tower (Campanile): At 69 meters, the campanile is Venice’s second tallest. Completed in 1396, it is a prominent city landmark, although not open for climbing (cestee.com).
Cloisters: Two cloisters, integral to monastic life, are generally closed to visitors but can be glimpsed from the sacristy (imagesofvenice.com).

Interior Layout

Latin Cross Plan: The basilica’s floor plan features three naves divided by twelve columns, symbolizing the apostles, and includes a sizable transept with polygonal chapels (wikipedia.org).
Choir and Screen: The elevated monks’ choir, built in 1468, houses 124 wooden stalls and is separated from the nave by a marble choir screen—the only one surviving in Venice (imagesofvenice.com).
Chapels and Side Altars: Numerous chapels showcase devotional art and reflect the patronage of Venetian families and guilds (imagesofvenice.com).

Artistic Masterpieces

Titian’s “Assumption of the Virgin”: Above the high altar, this altarpiece is celebrated for its bold composition and luminous color (Sacred Destinations).
Titian’s “Pesaro Madonna”: An innovative composition in the left nave, integrating patrons with sacred figures.
Giovanni Bellini’s Triptych: Located in the sacristy, this work exemplifies Bellini’s mastery of light and color.
Donatello’s “St. John the Baptist”: A rare Venetian work by Donatello, showcasing expressive realism (ReidsItaly.com).
Monumental Tombs: The basilica is the final resting place of Titian, Antonio Canova, and several Doges, each commemorated with grand funerary monuments (ReidsItaly.com).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Note: Hours may vary during religious services or special events. Always check the official website before your visit (imagesofvenice.com, Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari).

Admission & Ticketing

Full Price: €5.00
Reduced: €2.00 (students aged 12–29)
Senior: €3.00 (over 65)
Free Admission: Children up to 11, visitors with disabilities and companions, licensed guides, up to two teachers per school group, and Venice residents (with ID)
Chorus Pass: €10.00 for entry to 16 historic Venetian churches, including the Frari (Chorus Venezia).

Tickets are available at the entrance or online. Booking in advance is recommended during high season.

Accessibility

The basilica is wheelchair accessible at the main entrance, though some interior spaces may have steps or uneven flooring. Contact staff in advance for specific assistance (Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari).

Dress Code & Etiquette

Visitors should dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and observe silence, as the Frari is an active place of worship. Hats should be removed. Non-flash photography is generally permitted; tripods are not allowed (Italy Mamma Mia).

Guided Tours, Audio Guides, and Special Events

Guided Tours: English-language tours are sometimes available by volunteers in summer; check availability online or at the basilica (TravelSetu).
Audio Guides: Available in multiple languages for a small fee.
Special Events: Concerts and religious ceremonies are held regularly; check the schedule for possible access restrictions.

Highlights and Nearby Attractions

Campo dei Frari: The lively square outside is ideal for people-watching.
Dining: Nearby restaurants include Dona Onesta and local pizzerias (Italy Mamma Mia).
Other Sites: Combine your visit with the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, Rialto Bridge, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for a rich cultural itinerary (TravelSetu).

Sustainable and Responsible Tourism

Respect basilica rules and local customs.
Visit during less crowded hours to minimize your impact.
Consider small-group or guided tours for a deeper, more responsible experience (TravelSetu).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari?
A: Monday–Saturday 9:00–18:00; Sunday 13:00–18:00. Check the official website for updates.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Standard admission is €5.00, with reductions for students and seniors. Children under 11 and some other groups enter free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, volunteer-led tours and audio guides are available, especially in summer.

Q: Is the Frari accessible for people with disabilities?
A: The main entrance is accessible; some interior areas may have limited access.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Photography is allowed without flash. No tripods or flash, please.

Q: Is the bell tower open to visitors?
A: No, the campanile is not open to the public.

Visuals and Interactive Resources

Enhance your visit with virtual tours and image galleries featuring the basilica’s façade, masterpieces by Titian, choir stalls, and monumental tombs. Use SEO-optimized alt tags such as “Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari visiting hours” and “Titian’s Assumption of the Virgin in Frari Basilica Venice” for improved accessibility.

Essential Contacts

Address: S. Polo 3072, 30125 Venezia, Italy
Official Website: Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

Summary and Recommendations

Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari is a quintessential Venetian landmark, merging spiritual devotion, artistic achievement, and Gothic architectural elegance. Its vast nave, Renaissance artworks, and dignified tombs offer an immersive journey into Venice’s past. For a fulfilling visit, plan ahead—consult current hours, consider the Chorus Pass, and book tours when possible. Pair your trip with nearby cultural attractions for a comprehensive Venetian experience. Download the Audiala app for up-to-date guides and insights, and follow us on social media for additional travel inspiration (Sacred Destinations; ReidsItaly.com; Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari).