Santi Apostoli

Santi Apostoli Venice: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Venice, celebrated for its unique blend of history, architecture, and art, is home to the Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli (Church of the Holy Apostles), a landmark that encapsulates the city’s spiritual and cultural evolution. Located in the Cannaregio district, this ancient parish church stands as one of Venice’s oldest religious sites, offering visitors an immersive experience of Venetian heritage. From its legendary foundation in the 7th century to its Renaissance and Baroque transformations, Santi Apostoli continues to serve as a living parish, welcoming both worshippers and travelers in search of beauty, tranquility, and history (conoscerevenezia.it; Meeting Venice; Venice Civic Museums).

This comprehensive guide details the church’s history, architecture, artistic highlights, practical visiting information—including opening hours and ticketing—and offers tips to enrich your visit to this remarkable Venetian site (Love Venice; Venice Travel Guide).

Historical Overview

Origins and Legendary Foundation

Santi Apostoli’s origins are deeply rooted in Venetian legend. Tradition attributes its foundation to Bishop St. Magnus (San Magno) in the 7th century, who, guided by a mystical vision involving twelve cranes—symbolizing the twelve apostles—chose the church’s location. This narrative intertwines with the Christianization of the lagoon, when Venice was still a collection of scattered settlements (conoscerevenezia.it; Wikipedia).

By the 11th century, Santi Apostoli was firmly established as a spiritual hub, with later documents confirming its central role in the city’s evolving religious landscape (Meeting Venice).

Architectural Evolution

The church’s architecture reflects centuries of transformation:

Early Romanesque: Initially a modest structure, it expanded during the medieval period, adopting Romanesque features and gaining prominence due to its proximity to the Doge’s palace (conoscerevenezia.it).
Renaissance Flourish: In the 15th and 16th centuries, major renovations introduced classical symmetry and elegance. Mauro Codussi’s 1492 Cornaro Chapel is a renowned example of early Venetian Renaissance architecture (Codussi’s biography). The campanile, completed in 1575, embodies Renaissance ideals with its clean lines and octagonal drum.
Baroque Enhancements: Subsequent generations added Baroque flourishes, blending decorative exuberance with the church’s earlier forms (Venice Civic Museums).

Artistic and Cultural Highlights

The Cornaro Chapel and Noble Patronage

A centerpiece of Santi Apostoli is the Cornaro Chapel, commissioned by the influential Cornaro family. Designed by Codussi, the chapel’s circular plan and domed ceiling introduced Renaissance architectural concepts to Venice. It served as the burial place for family members, including Catherine Cornaro, Queen of Cyprus and Armenia. Her association underscores the church’s significance as a nexus between Venice and the broader Mediterranean (Love Venice; Cultural Heritage Online).

Masterpieces of Venetian Art

Inside the church, visitors encounter a rich array of artworks:

Giambattista Tiepolo: His luminous canvases enhance the spiritual ambiance.
Paolo Veronese: Renaissance works that exemplify Venetian grandeur.
Giovanni Contarini: “Birth of the Virgin” (1599) highlights Marian devotion (Web Gallery of Art).
Cesare da Conegliano: “Last Supper” (1583) emphasizes the Eucharist.
Fabio Canal and Sebastiano Santi: Their 18th- and 19th-century paintings continue the church’s tradition of sacred art (Love Venice).

Symbolism and Architectural Innovations

The church’s iconography reflects both religious and civic pride, with the Cornaro family coat of arms and stained glass depicting the apostles. Codussi’s innovations—centralized plans, domes, and classical orders—helped shape Venice’s architectural identity (Codussi’s influence; Venice Churches).

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

Santi Apostoli stands at the entrance to the Cannaregio district, on the lively Campo dei Santi Apostoli, a short walk from Rialto Bridge and near the Ca’ d’Oro vaporetto stop. The church is wheelchair accessible via a side entrance, though some chapels may have minor thresholds (Schmidt Holidays).

Visiting Hours

Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am – 11:30 am and 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Hours may vary during religious services or special events. Always check local postings or official tourism websites before your visit (MapsofWorld; Meeting Venice).

Tickets and Admission

Admission is free. Donations (suggested €5 for tourists) support ongoing restoration and maintenance.

Dress Code and Etiquette

Visitors should dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Silence and respectful conduct are expected, especially during Mass or private prayer times. Photography is allowed without flash; tripods are discouraged (Venice Insider Guide).

Guided Tours and Special Events

While no permanent guided tours are offered, Santi Apostoli is often included in Venice walking tours arranged by local agencies. The church occasionally hosts concerts and religious festivals—check local listings or parish announcements for updates.

Tips for a Meaningful Visit

Best Times: Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Duration: Allocate 30–45 minutes to explore the interior and chapels.
Footwear: Wear comfortable, supportive shoes for Venice’s uneven pavements.
Weather: Bring a light jacket or umbrella in spring and autumn.
Nearby Cafés: Enjoy refreshments at Campo dei Santi Apostoli or along Strada Nuova.

Digital resources like the Audiala app offer self-guided tours and up-to-date schedules to enhance your visit.

Nearby Attractions

Santi Apostoli’s central location makes it an ideal starting point to explore:

Rialto Bridge: Venice’s iconic crossing and market area.
Ca’ d’Oro: A Gothic palace with an art collection.
Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo: Famous for its grand tombs and artworks.
Jewish Ghetto: Rich in history and culture.
Frari Basilica: Home to masterpieces by Titian and other Venetian artists.

Apps like GPSmyCity provide self-guided walking routes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the visiting hours?
Monday to Saturday from 8:30 am to 11:30 am and 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm; Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Confirm ahead for special events.

Is there an entrance fee?
No; admission is free. Donations are encouraged.

Is the church accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, via a side entrance.

Are guided tours available?
Occasionally, through local agencies or as part of broader Venice tours.

Can I attend a Mass?
Yes, visitors are welcome. Check the parish notice board for schedules.

Is photography allowed inside?
Yes, without flash. Always check for signage.

Conclusion

Santi Apostoli offers a captivating journey through Venice’s architectural, artistic, and spiritual legacy. Its blend of historical layers, masterpieces by renowned artists, and ongoing community role make it a must-visit site for anyone seeking an authentic Venetian experience. Plan your visit around the published hours, respect local customs, and use digital tools like the Audiala app for a richer, more informed exploration.

For more travel inspiration, historical insights, and practical tips on Venice’s hidden treasures, follow our articles and social media channels. Let Santi Apostoli be your gateway to the heart of Venice’s living history.